Enterprises shifting to the web: the case for SSL-VPN - Key notes: top line information for IT buyers

Communications News, Dec, 2003

Rumor has it that migrating a few thousand users from one application platform to another is a bit tricky, especially when it comes to remotely accessing that application. Unfortunately, this is the dilemma an increasing number of CIOs are facing when considering the migration from client/server-based applications to web based applications.

Traditional client/server applications used by today's enterprises rely on external mechanisms such as VPNs to provide the necessary security. This of course requires the headache of not only installing and updating VPN client software and drivers but updating client applications as well. This support nightmare is what makes the lure of a web-based application so appealing: there is no client VPN or application software to maintain. Simply place an authenticating web proxy in front of your application servers and you're done.

However appealing the lure of web-based applications might be, the simple reality is that it isn't possible to migrate all of your applications for all of your users overnight. Applications are migrated slowly, one piece at a time. Each change must then be tested, the users trained and help desks prepared. Current VPNs are transitioned to web-based services, a process requiring the administration of two different systems and user training for two different methods of access. Ideally, a single product that enables the transition from client/server to web applications would reduce cost.

The Array SP is just that product. With its SSL-VPN technology, the Array SP provides clientless, authenticated, and secure access to existing applications. This feature allows administrators to continue handling existing applications and infrastructure without requiring a major overnight change. In addition to its SSL-VPN, the Array SP offers Web Resource MappingTM, a technology that provides secure access to web based applications without requiring any changes to the server application - a tremendous time and cost saver when compared to traditional authenticating web proxies.

Sporting both the SSL-VPN and Web Resource MappingTM technology, the Array SP allows enterprises that need both web and client/server applications at the same time, a smooth and easy transition. Deployment is a simple, painless process because of its clientless architecture. The Array SP offers features that provide speed, security, and scalability resulting in a platform that will ensure a cost effective long term solution for secure remote access.

At the end of the day, it's not about rumors it's about the bottom line. The Array SP's innovative SSL-VPN and Web Resource MappingTM technologies provide speed, security, and scalability, saves time and money, and facilitates the changes necessary to move from client/server to web-centric computing. For more information on how the Array SP can help you, contact Array Networks at info@arraynetworks.net or 866-MY-ARRAY.

For more information about the Array SP, SSL-VPN, And Web Resource Mapping, please visit the Array

Networks web site at www.arraynetworks.net/cn.>

COPYRIGHT 2003 Nelson Publishing

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