Data and Database Management Software
Software boosts WLAN security.
Press Release Summary:
Firebox SOHO v6.3 enables secure VPN access by linking wired and wireless networks. Bridge mode allows wireless network to be linked to wired network. Client mode enables Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless to be connected wirelessly to second Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless appliance or other Wi-Fi access point. Software provides concurrent session limit of 7,000, allowing multiple users to run several applications requiring VPN or Internet access without loss of performance.
Original Press Release:
WatchGuard Boosts WLAN Security with New Features for Firebox SOHO 6 Integrated Security Appliances
Enables secure VPN access by linking wired and wireless networks
Seattle, WA - November 3, 2003 - WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WGRD), a leading provider of Internet security solutions, today announced version 6.3 of its Firebox SOHO 6 software. Designed for small businesses, remote offices and telecommuters, the Firebox SOHO 6 line includes appliances for both wired and wireless network security.
Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless now allows Wi-Fi users to share VPN access and resources, such as printers, on the wired network easily and securely. It also enables two wireless access points to relay traffic to one another in order to extend the reach of the Wi-Fi network in situations where a physical connection is too costly.
New features of the Firebox SOHO 6 appliances for wired networks include increased VPN capacity for mobile workers through concurrent licensing.
"The Firebox SOHO 6 products are the most powerful and accessible security appliances in their class, offering a wide range of options in an economical package to meet the needs of small businesses and remote workers," said John Stuckey, vice president of product management at WatchGuard. "Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless is ideal for implementing a safe and controlled Wi-Fi network, while providing access to resources on the LAN."
Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless for wireless networks
The Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless product line provides a complete security solution in a single firewall/VPN appliance. Featuring an integrated 802.11b Wireless Access Point (WAP), 4-port LAN 10/100 switch and remote management capabilities, the SOHO 6 Wireless line includes three models to fit the diverse requirements of each individual user. Version 6.3 enhancements to the Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless appliances include:
o Bridge mode - allows the wireless network to be linked to the wired network. This enables wireless users to easily access the shared resources on the wired network such as servers, printers and scanners. To prevent unauthorized access over the wireless network to the trusted LAN, users still can be required to connect via fully authenticated mobile user VPN client software. This prevents the Wi-Fi network from being a security loophole or an unprotected onramp to the main corporate network.
o Client mode - enables the Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless to be connected wirelessly to a second Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless appliance or other Wi-Fi access point This can be used to link two networks where a physical connection would be difficult, costly or inappropriate. For instance, offices on different floors could be connected without the need to run cabling between them.
Firebox SOHO 6 for wired networks
In addition to the Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless appliances, the Firebox SOHO 6 line includes three models that offer robust, flexible protection for wired networks on a high performance hardware platform that delivers 75 Mbps firewall and 20 Mbps 3DES VPN throughput. New features in version 6.3 across both the wired and wireless models in the Firebox SOHO 6 line include:
o An increased concurrent session limit of 7,000. This level of scalability allows multiple users to run several applications requiring VPN or Internet access without loss of performance. For small- to medium-sized businesses, this level of concurrent sessions far exceeds the bandwidth capacity provided by a DSL connection, preventing the perimeter gateway from becoming a performance bottleneck.
o The availability of optional concurrent use licenses for mobile user VPN (MUVPN) connections, which reduces the cost of equipping telecommuters. Rather than requiring a client license for each telecommuter, customers can purchase licenses for up to ten concurrent MUVPN connections regardless of the total number of telecommuter clients needing VPN access.
Pricing and availability
Version 6.3 of the Firebox SOHO 6 software is expected to be available in Q4 2003 at no additional charge to active LiveSecurity Service subscribers at www.watchguard.com. New pricing is also available for the Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless security appliances, which includes three models available through WatchGuard resellers worldwide. Please visit www.watchguard.com to find the nearest distributor or reseller.
o Firebox SOHO 6 Wireless small office endpoint: Suggested list price is $599 USD
o Firebox SOHO 6tc Wireless branch office endpoint: Suggested list price is $699 USD
o Firebox SOHO 6tc Wireless 50 User branch office endpoint/multi-office endpoint: Suggested list price is $999 USD
Support
Each Firebox SOHO 6 and SOHO 6 Wireless model includes a 90-day renewable subscription to WatchGuard's LiveSecurity Service, which provides customers with systematic updates and security intelligence. Backed by a team of security experts, technical support representatives and trainers, LiveSecurity Service includes software updates, technical support, security broadcasts (threat responses, virus alerts, information alerts, expert editorials, support flashes and more), self-help resources and online training. WatchGuard Firebox products are also backed by a one-year limited hardware warranty.
About WatchGuard Technologies, Inc.
WatchGuard is a leading provider of Internet security solutions for small- to medium-sized enterprises worldwide, delivering integrated products and services that are robust as well as easy to buy, deploy and manage. WatchGuard security appliances are designed to deliver powerful firewall and VPN performance, outstanding security, intrusion prevention and networking features, scalability and flexibility in an affordable, integrated solution. Every WatchGuard product comes with an initial subscription to the company's innovative LiveSecurity service, which is designed to protect customers against constantly emerging threats by providing timely systematic updates, security intelligence and expert information. As a recent addition to its suite of security solutions, the company now offers customers the WatchGuard AuditScan service, powered by Qualys, a vulnerability assessment service that provides another layer of proactive perimeter protection to complement the security appliance. For more information, please call (206) 521-8340 or visit www.watchguard.com.
