Expand Networks, a leader in application acceleration over the wide area network (WAN) and recently positioned in the Gartner´s Leaders Quadrant for WAN Optimization Controllers 2007 has announced the integration of standards–based IPSec implementation on all IP traffic within the latest edition of its Compass platform.
IPSec is one of the strongest encryption solutions available and allows enterprises to confidently ensure data integrity and authentication between offices. Additionally, IPSec also protects data with strong encryption that cannot be deciphered in the event it is intercepted and as such is the de factor security solution for implementing VPNs.
The Expand encryption is based on block–CBC cryptology and supports several powerful encryption standards including AES–128, AES–191 and AES–256 with integrity and authentication ensured by SHA–1 authentication methods. In addition, confidence is established using the standard and highly secure IKE protocol.
With the integration of IPSec, Expand can support the strongest encryption algorithms in the industry and offers complete IPSec VPN data protection. It is ideal for any small to medium remote branch office requiring additional VPN deployment or router configuration as Oxfam, the global relief agency can testify to.
Oxfam had a separate VPN box installed in each of its locations purely to determine an IPSec tunnel over satellite links. By selecting the Expand for WAN optimisation with integrated IPSec, Oxfam was able to remove the extra VPN devices from each location and use the Compass for IPSec connectivity via satellite. According to Graeme Steele, Production Manager, Oxfam;
"The integration of IPSec within the Expand Compass, as opposed to a separate appliance offered from other vendors, was a key factor in the decision to deploy Expand. In addition, Compass´ ability to encrypt all IP traffic was an absolute necessity for Oxfam as part of its global WAN Optimisation project."
"At a time when modern MPLS networks and the use of the Internet as the network backbone leaves the enterprise vulnerable, our integration of IPSec provides the highest available form of application protection over the WAN for our customers," said Elie Barr, CEO, Expand Networks. "As with all optimisation from the Expand Compass, IPSec encryption is applicable to all IP traffic, not merely subsets of TCP traffic like some WAN Optimisation vendors."
Note About the Magic Quadrant
The Magic Quadrant is copyrighted December 2007 by Gartner, Inc. and is reused with permission. The Magic Quadrant is a graphical representation of a marketplace at and for a specific time period. It depicts Gartner´s analysis of how certain vendors measure against criteria for that marketplace, as defined by Gartner. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in the Magic Quadrant, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors placed in the "Leaders" quadrant. The Magic Quadrant is intended solely as a research tool, and is not meant to be a specific guide to action. Gartner disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
About Expand Networks
Expand Networks is the pioneer and leader in helping organizations simplify their IT infrastructure while delivering remote offices fast, reliable and secure access to networked applications. This results in improved user productivity and cost–effective IT management. Expand offers a multi–service integrated platform that ensures superior performance for any application over any network. From its headquarters in Roseland, NJ and its global locations, Expand Networks (www.expand.com) serves more than 3,000 enterprise customers and has over 36,000 units installed including: American Express, Bacardi USA, BMW, Continental Airlines, Carr America, Colgate, Elizabeth Arden, Reed Exhibitions, Target and United States Department of Defense.
Expand Networks, Accelerator, Expand Compass, ExpandView are trademarks of Expand Networks. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.