* EarthLink VPN service supports browser- and client-based VPNs
EarthLink has a new VPN service that supports both browser-based and client-based VPNs.
Called EarthLink VPN, the service also includes network-based management that enables customers to set security parameters and access rights for their end users.
Policies can be set for individuals or groups and can be set up to trigger a different set of rights for different times of the day. For instance, an end user might be allowed to access high-bandwidth file downloads only during off-peak hours to prevent them from clogging limited Internet access pipes.
The service also bolsters corporate security by making sure remote machines are configured in compliance with customers’ security policies. If not, it can direct users to sites either in the provider’s network or in the customer’s network where they can download what they need to comply. The service also can download policy updates as they are established.
Much of this is exactly what SSL VPN appliances do, with the obvious difference that customers don’t buy any gear; they just pay a monthly fee, which starts at $100 per month. This is something to look into for customers who lack the staff and expertise to buy, set up and maintain their own SSL VPN gear.
If customers use the client-based service, remote users can gain full network-layer access to the VPN. If they use the clientless option, they have access to Web-based resources.
This may all sound familiar for another reason. It is based on services sold by Positive Networks, which runs a data center to which remote users authenticate, then proxies their SSL connections to corporate sites via IPSec VPN tunnels.
Small businesses and businesses with traveling workers would be prime candidates to check this out.
