More security and choice for remote access

Mobility services firm Fiberlink will today unveil a new version of its Extend360 client for laptops, adding security tools and the ability for administrators to set policies governing which USB devices and applications can be used by mobile staff.

Fiberlink already enables staff to keep connected while on the road, through its Extend360 client, which offers a single user interface to connect to many networks worldwide.

The latest version adds support for almost all 3G data cards, enabling the client to connect via any dial-up, broadband, Wi-Fi or mobile data connection, not just those affiliated to Fiberlink, according to the company.

New security features have been added through partnerships with SecureWave and ISS, allowing Fiberlink to bundle key technologies with Extend360.

SecureWave’s Sanctuary Suite allows companies to stop users firing up the virtual private network (VPN) if they have a USB Flash drive plugged in, said Skip Taylor, vice-president of product marketing at Fiberlink. “This prevents data being moved from the VPN to the USB drive during a session,” he added.

Administrators can also establish a whitelist of authorised applications, which stops users from running unapproved tools such as music-sharing software, the company said.

Proventia Desktop from ISS monitors application behaviour for suspicious activity and stops viruses, worms and spyware, including previously unseen types.

Pricing for the new Extend360 client starts at $7 (£4) per seat per month. Access to Fiberlink’s global network costs extra.

‹ www.fiberlink.com