Microsoft Releases Hardware Security Appliance

By Janet Harris

Microsoft, better known for its software, has strengthened its portfolio of security products with a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) virtual private network (VPN) appliance.

The Intelligent Application Gateway (IAG) 2007, which is part of Microsoft’s ForeFront security platform, defends the network edge from intruders, secures network endpoints, and safeguards applications, while a user is connected to a corporate network and the Web from a laptop, PC or handheld device.

IAG 2007 combines SSL, VPN and Web application firewall assets which Microsoft gained from its acquisition of Whale Communications in 2006, with Microsoft’s own Internet Security and Acceleration Server (ISA Server).

The software from IAG 2007 is available in pre-installed and configured appliances from Celestix Networks and Network Engines.

Microsoft now offers all-in-one pricing for the gateway and the intelligent application optimizers, network connectors and security modules developed for applications.

Client access licenses will now be based on the number of authenticated users or devices connecting to IAG appliances rather than on concurrent users.