Connecting from a Public Computer

Configuring Secure Access Client to Work with Non-Administrative Users

If a user is not logged on as an administrator on a computer running Windows 2000 Professional, the Secure Access Client must be installed locally on the client computer and then started using the Web address of https://FQDN/ WatchGuardsaclient.exe, where FQDN is the address of the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway. The ActiveX applet does not have the rights to download and install the file. Clients who are logged on as non-administrators using Windows 2003 Server or Windows XP are able to download and install the ActiveX applet.

For a user who is not logged on as an administrator and connects using the Secure Access Client, appli- cations such as Microsoft Outlook might occasionally lose the network connection.

Connections Using Kiosk Mode

The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway provides secure access to a corporate network from a public computer using kiosk mode. When users select A public computer on the WatchGuard portal page, a Web browser opens. The user logs on and then can access applications provided in the browser window. By default, kiosk mode is disabled. When kiosk mode is disabled, users do not see the A public com- puter option on the portal page and the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway does not provide any kiosk mode functionality.

For computers running Java virtual machine (JVM 1.5) or higher (such as Macintosh, Windows 95, or Windows 98 computers), kiosk mode is available through a Java applet. For Macintosh computers to support kiosk mode, the Safari browser and JRE 1.5 must be installed.

When the user is logged on using kiosk mode, the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway sends images only (no data) over the connection. As a result, there is no risk of leaving temporary files or cookies on the public computer. Both temporary files and cookies for the session are maintained on the Firebox SSL VPN Gate- way.

The browser defaults to a Web address that is configured per group through the Administration Tool. The Web browser window can also include icons for Remote Desktop, SSH, Telnet 3270 emulator, Gaim instant messenging, and VNC clients. The icons are displayed in the bottom-left corner of the window. The applications are specified for each group. For more information about configuring applications for kiosk mode, see “Creating a Kiosk Mode Resource” on page 127.

The Web browser window also provides access to shared network drives. The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway administrator configures the permissions granted (read-only or read/write) to each shared network drive. For more information about configuring network shares, see “Configuring file share resources” on page 102.

Users can copy files from the network share to their computer simply by dragging the file onto the KioskFTP icon and selecting the destination in the File Download dialog box.

Note

Important: End point policies are not supported or enforced when users are logged on using kiosk mode.

Kiosk mode can include the following applications if they are enabled on the User Groups tab in the Administration Tool:

126	Firebox SSL VPN Gateway

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.

WatchGuard Technologies SSL VPN Connecting from a Public Computer, Connections Using Kiosk Mode

Models: SSL VPN