WatchGuard Technologies manual Introduction to Firebox SSL VPN Gateway, Overview

CHAPTER 2 Introduction to Firebox SSL VPN

Gateway

WatchGuard Firebox SSL VPN Gateway is a universal Secure Socket Layer (SSL) virtual private network (VPN) appliance that provides a secure single point-of-access to any information resource — both data and voice. Combining the best features of Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) and SSL VPN, without the costly and cumbersome implementation and management, Firebox SSL VPN Gateway works through any firewall and supports all applications and protocols. It is fast, simple, and cost-effective to deploy and maintain with a Web-deployed and automatically updating client. Users receive a consistent desk- like user experience with “always-on” connectivity, an integrated worm-blocking client, and integrated end-point scanning. With the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway, organizations can quickly and easily deploy one product for all of their secure remote access needs.

The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway gives the remote user seamless, secure access to authorized applications and network resources. Remote users can work with files on network drives, email, intranet sites, and applications just as if they are working inside of their organization’s firewall.

The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway also provides kiosk mode, which opens a virtual network computing-like connection to the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway. Kiosk mode can include shared network drives, a variety of built-in clients, servers running Windows Terminal Services (Remote Desktop), and client applications.

The following topics provide an overview to the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway:

•Overview

•New Features

•The User Experience

•Deployment and Administration

•Using the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway

•Using Kiosk Mode

Overview

The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway is typically installed in the network demilitarized zone (DMZ) between the public and private networks. Placing the Firebox SSL VPN Gateway in front of the private network pro- tects internal server and IT resources. The Firebox SSL VPN Gateway can also partition internal local area networks for access control and security between any two networks, such as wired/wireless and data/ voice networks.

Administration Guide 9