CHAPTER 7 Creating and Installing Secure

Certificates

The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway uses certificates for authentication. In the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway Administration Tool, you can create a certificate to be signed by a Certificate Authority. Then, when the signed certificate is received, it can be installed on the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway.

This chapter covers the following topics:

•Generating a Secure Certificate for the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway

•Digital Certificates and Firebox SSL VPN Gateway Operation

•Overview of the Certificate Signing Request

•Client Certificates

Note

When configuring certificates do not use 512-bit keypairs. They are subject to brute force attacks.

Generating a Secure Certificate for the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway

The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway includes a digital certificate that is not signed by a trusted Certificate Authority. Install a digital X.509 certificate that belongs to your company and is signed by a Certificate Authority on the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway. Your company can operate as its own Certificate Authority, or you can obtain a digital certificate from a commercial Certificate Authority such as Verisign and Thawte.

Note

Operating the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway without a digital certificate signed by a Certificate Authority can subject VPN connections to malicious attacks.

There are two ways to install a secure certificate and private key on the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway:

•Generate a Certificate Signing Request using the the Administration Tool. When the request is generated, a certificate and private key are created. The private key remains on the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway and the certificate is sent to a CA for signing. When the certificate is received back, it is installed on the appliance. During installation it is paired with the password-protected private key. WatchGuard recommends using this method to create and install secure certificates.

Administration Guide

109

Page 118 Page 120
Page 119
Image 119
WatchGuard Technologies SSL VPN manual Creating and Installing Secure Certificates
Page 118 Page 120

SSL VPN specifications

WatchGuard Technologies offers a robust SSL VPN solution designed for secure remote access to corporate networks. As businesses increasingly rely on a remote workforce, the need for secure and reliable connectivity has never been more critical. WatchGuard's SSL VPN features advanced security technologies that ensure data integrity and confidentiality while enabling seamless access to applications and resources.

One of the standout features of WatchGuard's SSL VPN is its user-friendly interface. The solution is designed to simplify the user experience, enabling employees to connect to the VPN with minimal complexity. With a straightforward setup process, users can quickly establish secure connections from various devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This flexibility supports a diverse workforce, allowing employees to work from different locations without compromising security.

In addition to its ease of use, WatchGuard's SSL VPN is built on robust security technologies. It employs end-to-end encryption to safeguard data in transit, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive information. By utilizing SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocols, the VPN creates a secure tunnel between the user’s device and the corporate network, protecting against potential threats such as eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks.

Moreover, WatchGuard Technologies includes multiple authentication options, adding another layer of security. The solution supports multi-factor authentication (MFA), requiring users to provide additional verification beyond just a password. This could involve mobile device verification or biometric authentication, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Another key characteristic of WatchGuard’s SSL VPN is its integration with other WatchGuard security solutions. Businesses can benefit from a comprehensive security posture by leveraging firewalls and intrusion prevention systems along with the SSL VPN. This holistic approach ensures that remote connections are continually monitored and secured against evolving cyber threats.

Scalability is also a crucial aspect of WatchGuard's SSL VPN, accommodating growing organizations with changing needs. The solution can easily scale to support an increasing number of remote users without compromising performance. With robust performance metrics, businesses can ensure that even during peak usage times, the VPN remains responsive and reliable.

In summary, WatchGuard Technologies' SSL VPN solution combines ease of use, robust security, flexible authentication, and scalability. These features make it an ideal choice for organizations seeking to provide secure remote access to their employees while maintaining a strong defense against cyber threats. With WatchGuard, businesses can confidently navigate the challenges of a digital landscape, ensuring their network remains secure as they embrace remote work.
Top Page Image Contents