Barracudahas launched Barracuda Web Security Gateway version 11.0, which offers customers advanced security protection and improved SSL scanning performance, as well as the ability to enforce policy configuration on Chromebooks. Barracuda Web Security Gateway is purpose built to enable organisations to benefit from online applications and tools, while preventing exposure to web-borne malware and viruses, and limiting lost user productivity and misused bandwidth. With version 11.0, Barracuda Web Security Gateway combines powerful web security functionality with next-generation firewall capabilities allowing for more robust, complementary security protection managed from a single pane of glass.
Accelerated SSL Scanning and Web Traffic Performance
Mozilla recently reported that for the first time ever, 50 percent of page loads in a day were HTTPS, or SSL encrypted. This encryption gives users peace of mind when sending sensitive information such as credit card data or passwords; however, it also presents a significant challenge to administrators now that it is increasingly being used to hide inappropriate or malicious content. At the same time, SSL Inspection is a resource intensive function, which puts strain on network performance. Barracuda Web Security Gateway version 11.0 includes built-in SSL acceleration hardware cards to models 610 and higher, doubling the performance. This SSL acceleration technology significantly improves the ability to inspect, secure, regulate and monitor SSL encrypted web traffic.
Security, policy enforcement and monitoring tasks that require detailed inspection of web traffic can be performance intensive and have an adverse impact on the performance of UTMs and firewalls. The Barracuda Web Security Gateway can be deployed with Barracuda NextGen Firewalls and now, with any existing third party UTM or firewall, which allows each device to perform the functions that it does best. When used with an existing UTM or firewall, the Barracuda Web Security Gateway provides the layered security, granular filtering and reporting that IT admins typically need, while also shouldering the burden required to do so, resulting in improved security, network performance gains, and increased visibility.
Advanced Threat Protection
Web browsing is one of the most commonly exploited threat vectors when users are exposed to malicious links and harmful downloads. According to Gartner, “Advanced threat defense is becoming increasingly important in the Secure Web Gateway market. Vendors must deliver on the promise that they are truly security products or services and not just web filtering solutions1.”
The Barracuda Web Security Gateway now offers integration with Barracuda Advanced Threat Detection, a cloud-based microservice designed to detect and protect against ransomware or other advanced threats. Customers can add this additional layer seamlessly – without requiring complex or expensive firewall upgrades – providing complete protection for users browsing online. The Barracuda Advanced Threat Detection microservice is integrated with multiple Barracuda product lines, including Barracuda NextGen Firewall, Barracuda Essentials, and now Barracuda Web Security Gateway.
Security for Chromebooks
While Chromeworks provide a cost effective way to implement online assessments and efficient device management, they also represent a significant security gap and need for mobile policy enforcement. The new Barracuda Chromebook Security Extension enables schools to enforce designated Barracuda Web Security Gateway policies on Chromebooks via an easy-to-use browser plugin. Policies can be enforced even when the devices are outside the network, providing security for students whether they are on campus or remote.
