User Level Authentication and Schedules

Sonic OS 2.x Quick Start Guide

While there are many other possibilities for creating Access Rules in SonicOS Enhanced, this “Public LAN Server” example should give you an understanding of where to start. In this section, we saved a couple fields for future explanation, so let’s talk about them now:

Back in the “Objects” section we created an Address Object Group called “Instant Messengers”. Let’s put this group to use in a rule, and combine it with User-Level Authentication (ULA). This combination will allow us provide IM services on a user-by-user basis. Then we’ll take it one step further, and use a schedule to apply the rule during certain days and times only.

NOTE – Before creating the rule, you must first ensure that the user and/or group exist. User level authentication can be accomplished with either the built-in, internal User database of the Sonicwall, or via a Radius server.

Create User(s) & Group(s):

You can use the following steps to create additional Users and Groups for other purposes, such as VPN Client access.

To create a User and associated Group:

1.From the GUI, select the USERS option, and then LOCAL USERS.

2.Click the ADD USER button.

3.Enter the User’s.Name and Password. Click OK.

4.Repeat the previous steps to create additional users, as required.

5.Select LOCAL GROUPS and then select

ADD GROUP.

6.Enter a name for the Group (we called ours “Allowed IMers”).

7.Select the MEMBERS tab.

8.Select the User we previously created and click the “->” button to make them a Member of the group. Repeat for additional Users, as required.

9.Click OK.

Create Firewall Rule:

To create the Firewall rule to limit Instant Messenger usage to only those in the group:

1.From the GUI, select the FIREWALL option.

2.Click the intersection of the LAN (on the left) and WAN (on the top) to display any rules applicable for outgoing packets from the LAN to the WAN.

OS 2.x specifications

SonicWALL OS 2.x represents a significant step forward in firewall, VPN, and security appliance technology. This operating system is specifically designed to deliver robust security solutions for businesses of all sizes. SonicWALL, a brand known for its high-performance network security products, leverages advanced features in OS 2.x to elevate the capability of its devices, ensuring that organizations can defend against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

One of the main features of SonicWALL OS 2.x is its Integrated Intrusion Prevention System (IPS). This technology continuously monitors network traffic to detect and block potential threats in real-time. The IPS is crucial for safeguarding sensitive data by preventing unauthorized access and attacks related to vulnerabilities in applications and services.

Another critical characteristic of OS 2.x is its support for deep packet inspection. This functionality allows SonicWALL devices to thoroughly analyze incoming and outgoing packets, ensuring that malicious content is identified and dealt with appropriately. By parsing the packet data beyond simple header information, deep packet inspection enables the detection of sophisticated threats that might evade standard filtering techniques.

Additionally, SonicWALL OS 2.x includes advanced VPN capabilities, making it easier for remote employees to securely connect to the corporate network. With support for SSL VPN and IPSec, this OS ensures that data remains encrypted and protected during transmission. This aspect is particularly essential for organizations with remote workforces, as it allows employees to access necessary resources without compromising security.

The operating system also features an intuitive and user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI). This interface provides administrators with a streamlined approach to managing security policies, monitoring performance, and making real-time adjustments to firewall settings. The ease of use significantly reduces the complexity associated with managing sophisticated security configurations.

Moreover, SonicWALL OS 2.x integrates with a range of networking technologies including VLAN support and dual WAN failover. This ensures that network performance remains optimal, even during hardware failures or unexpected surges in traffic, contributing greatly to overall business continuity.

In summary, SonicWALL OS 2.x combines a suite of advanced security features with an intuitive management interface, making it an essential solution for organizations looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture. The technologies and characteristics embedded within this operating system exemplify SonicWALL’s commitment to providing reliable and effective security solutions in an increasingly complex digital world.