Using File Shares

Using the Request Assistance Feature

If the Display Request Help Button option has been enabled on the Virtual Assist tab on the Portals > Portals page of the management interface, users will see the Request Assistance button on the Virtual Office portal. By clicking this button on the portal, the user is placed in the Virtual Assist support queue for assistance.

For information on using Virtual Assist from the customer perspective, see “Using Virtual Assist from the Customer View” on page 90.

A technician who is currently assisting a user can also click this button to place the user back on the queue. Someone else in a technician role can then service this user by viewing the system and taking control of the user’s mouse and keyboard. This is useful if one technician needs to hand the user off to another technician, because of differing areas of expertise or the end of shift.

Using File Shares

File shares provide remote users with a secure Java applet or HTML-based interface to Microsoft File Shares using the CIFS (Common Internet File System) or SMB (Server Message Block) protocols. Using a Web interface similar in style to Microsoft’s familiar Network Neighborhood or My Network Places, File Shares allow users with appropriate permissions to browse network shares, rename, delete, retrieve, and upload files, and to create bookmarks for later recall.

The File Shares Applet mimics Windows Explorer navigation and provides functionality not available in HTML-based File Shares, including the ability to overwrite existing files and upload directories.

This section contains the following subsections:

“Using the File Shares Applet” section on page 97

“Using HTML-Based File Shares” section on page 111

Using the File Shares Applet

The File Shares Applet has a similar look and feel to the Windows Explorer tool, featuring drag- and-drop and multiple file selection capabilities. It also provides the user the ability to set up bookmarks to quickly navigate through networks from the portal level. This feature saves time lost moving through network and server paths. The File Shares Applet leverages Sun’s Java platform browser plug-in to increase usability by mimicking the common Windows Explorer interface. With the help of the HTTPS protocol, the applet securely transfers encrypted files and information to and from the SSL-VPN appliance. The appliance communicates this data to the individual machines on the remote network.

This section contains the following subsections:

“User Prerequisites” section on page 98

“Configuration Overview” section on page 98

SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 User Guide

97

Page 97
Image 97
SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 manual Using File Shares, Using the Request Assistance Feature, Using the File Shares Applet

SSL VPN 5.0 specifications

SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 is a powerful solution designed to provide secure remote access to organizations while ensuring robust security for their networks. This version builds upon previous iterations, incorporating advanced technologies and features that cater to both enterprise and small business needs.

One of the main features of SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 is its user-friendly web portal. The portal is accessible from any device with a web browser, allowing users to connect seamlessly to corporate resources without the need for client software installation. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for remote workers who may be using public or personal devices.

The SSL VPN 5.0 also supports multiple authentication methods, enhancing security while maintaining ease of access. It includes support for two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds an extra layer of protection during the login process. Administrators can configure various authentication schemes, including RSA SecurID, LDAP, RADIUS, and more, to meet organizational security policies.

Another notable characteristic of SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 is its scalable architecture. Organizations can easily expand their VPN capabilities as their workforce grows. The solution supports a large number of concurrent connections, ensuring that businesses can accommodate an increasing number of remote users without compromising performance.

SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 also emphasizes security features that protect both user data and the corporate network. It leverages strong encryption protocols, ensuring that all data transmitted between users and the network is secure from eavesdropping or interception. The solution employs SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) technology, which is widely recognized for its robust security measures.

In addition to security, SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 provides comprehensive access control options. Administrators can create policies that restrict user access based on roles or groups, making it easier to manage permissions and safeguard sensitive information. This granular control helps organizations enforce compliance with regulatory standards.

Moreover, the solution includes advanced logging and reporting capabilities that allow administrators to monitor user activity and access patterns. This insight not only aids in troubleshooting but also helps to identify potential security threats.

SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 stands out with its integration capabilities. It can work harmoniously with existing network infrastructures, including firewalls, to create a cohesive security strategy. By utilizing the SonicWALL global management system, IT teams can manage and monitor their VPN and other security solutions from a central location.

Combining ease of use, robust security, and comprehensive management capabilities, SonicWALL SSL VPN 5.0 is a compelling choice for organizations seeking to enable secure remote access while protecting their critical assets against emerging threats.