Netilla Networks, a maker of network access devices, will today introduce a virtual private network (VPN) appliance that enables client-less access to Citrix MetaFrame applications for remote users.

The Secure Gateway Appliance-C (SGA-C), available from October, enables access from any location, without the overhead and complexity of Citrix's Secure Gateway for MetaFrame, according to Netilla.

Netilla's SGA-C lets remote workers access apps running on a MetaFrame server farm without having to install any software on their client system. Instead, users can run a Citrix session from within a web browser.

"Our Netilla SGA family provides an entry point for any firm or department by offering application-focused secure access management solutions at competitive price points," said Netilla's chief executive, Reggie Best.

Netilla's system reduces complexity by putting in a single appliance all of the functions needed to secure a MetaFrame infrastructure for access via the internet. As the SGA-C contains a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) VPN, it is able to replace the Citrix Web Interface and Secure Gateway modules that would otherwise require three or more servers to operate, according to Netilla.

One of the things that has made this possible is that the latest Citrix Clients for Java now have the same functionality as the firm's full Windows ICA clients. This means users can get the same experience accessing server-based apps via a web browser.

Another factor is Netilla's reverse web proxy technology for securing access to the MetaFrame servers. Inbound packets from remote clients are terminated at the VPN, which reroutes them as new sessions to the applications servers. There is no direct IP connection between the client and server.

The SGA-C also offers a number of security features found in Netilla's Security Platform (NSP) appliances. These include a stateful inspection firewall, and client integrity options such as a secure virtual desktop and cache cleaning tools. The SGA-C is priced at £2,275 for up to 25 concurrent users or £3,600 for up to 50.

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