Microsoft Launches SSL VPN Software
Windows Vista might be robbing the spotlight, but Microsoft has moved forward with other new product launches this week. On Thursday, Redmond announced new software that aims to make servers more secure.
Dubbed the Intelligent Application Gateway 2007, or IAG 2007, the software combines Microsoft's own Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) server with a firewall product that Microsoft obtained when it acquired Whale Communications last summer.
IAG 2007 offers secure sockets layer virtual private networking (SSL VPN) capabilities along with several management tools. Microsoft disclosed that it has struck deals with two appliance manufacturers -- Celestix Networks and Network Engines -- which means the software will be available soon as part of hardware appliances.
Protecting Endpoints
Remote access is becoming ubiquitous for companies large and small. With the need to provide access from diverse endpoints to multiple applications, it is imperative that enterprises have remote access solutions that can meet expanded connection and security needs, noting that Microsoft's IAG offers the functionality companies need while incorporating Microsoft's standard licensing model.
The new product is good news for Microsoft server customers, Microsoft's history in terms of securing its servers has not been sterling, Integrating Whale's solution makes the product comprehensive.
Indeed, with the addition of IAG 2007, Microsoft's server application suite covers several platforms -- from handheld devices to desktop PCs -- and also offers robust application protection.
I don't believe Microsoft can claim a substantial advantage over other vendors' SSL VPN solutions, Most vendors offer similar features. The real value for Microsoft customers is access to a stronger solution. Juniper Networks, OpenVPN, and Cisco offer similar software.
All-in-One Pricing
Microsoft also is attempting to provide value with a new pricing model. Microsoft unveiled an all-in-one pricing and licensing model designed to make SSL VPNs more affordable for small businesses.
The pricing includes the gateway, and all network connectors and security modules developed for client-side and application-layer security policies. Client access licenses will now be based on the number of authenticated users or devices connecting to IAG rather than on concurrent users.
Dubbed the Intelligent Application Gateway 2007, or IAG 2007, the software combines Microsoft's own Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) server with a firewall product that Microsoft obtained when it acquired Whale Communications last summer.
IAG 2007 offers secure sockets layer virtual private networking (SSL VPN) capabilities along with several management tools. Microsoft disclosed that it has struck deals with two appliance manufacturers -- Celestix Networks and Network Engines -- which means the software will be available soon as part of hardware appliances.
Protecting Endpoints
Remote access is becoming ubiquitous for companies large and small. With the need to provide access from diverse endpoints to multiple applications, it is imperative that enterprises have remote access solutions that can meet expanded connection and security needs, noting that Microsoft's IAG offers the functionality companies need while incorporating Microsoft's standard licensing model.
The new product is good news for Microsoft server customers, Microsoft's history in terms of securing its servers has not been sterling, Integrating Whale's solution makes the product comprehensive.
Indeed, with the addition of IAG 2007, Microsoft's server application suite covers several platforms -- from handheld devices to desktop PCs -- and also offers robust application protection.
I don't believe Microsoft can claim a substantial advantage over other vendors' SSL VPN solutions, Most vendors offer similar features. The real value for Microsoft customers is access to a stronger solution. Juniper Networks, OpenVPN, and Cisco offer similar software.
All-in-One Pricing
Microsoft also is attempting to provide value with a new pricing model. Microsoft unveiled an all-in-one pricing and licensing model designed to make SSL VPNs more affordable for small businesses.
The pricing includes the gateway, and all network connectors and security modules developed for client-side and application-layer security policies. Client access licenses will now be based on the number of authenticated users or devices connecting to IAG rather than on concurrent users.


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