* SSL remote access service from NetWolves
Managed service provider NetWolves is adding an Secure Sockets Layer remote access service to its list of offerings.
NetWolves’ SSL VPN service is based on its own software and its WolfPac appliances that serve as gateways to corporate networks. The SSL gateway software can run on a dedicated appliance or it can be part of a bundle of security applications such as virus protection, IPSec VPN and intrusion detection.
The advantage of buying such a service is that the customer has no need to manage and maintain the device. The service includes two-factor authentication involving digital certificates. This is more secure than username-and-password authentication, and outsourcing it saves headaches.
NetWolves issues memory sticks or other devices that generate the certificates for the remote users and the gateways. The provider also acts as its own certificate authority, removing a potentially time consuming or costly chore from customers’ shoulders.
Customers that don’t mind buying and managing their own SSL gateways can get equipment that supports more applications than NetWolves, which only supports HTML-based applications. Through the use of Java or ActiveX or separate client software, many appliance vendors support nearly all types of applications.
The NetWolves service does clean up the remote machine after an SSL session so no files accessed during a session remain on the computer.
NetWolves charges a monthly fee for the service, which includes the gateway. The minimum configuration supports 25 simultaneous users. NetWolves doesn’t publish prices for its services.
Customers that don’t want to deal with the burden of buying and operating their own gateways might find this service attractive and should note it can be bundled with other security services.
