WRQ adds VPN integration to Reflection

SOCKS support links private networks through browsers

HP 3000 connectivity provider WRQ has teamed up with a software firm that offers easy-to-maintain Virtual Private Network (VPN) software, so companies using these private networks have less to maintain in IT shops and on users’ desktops.

WRQ is adding support for the SOCKS protocol in its Reflection for the Web product, which gives WRQ’s Windows-based desktop software the ability to work with VPN solution Aspelle Everywhere. The Aspelle software simplifies the deploying of VPNs through a no-client solution, relying on Web browsers and the WRQ desktop solution.

VPN solutions can be complex and demand extra maintenance in exchange for their extra security. WRQ has been focusing on security in its recent releases for the Reflection line, and its leader of the Reflection business unit said the Aspelle software make VPN easier to use on mission-critical applications like those hosted on HP 3000s.

“Aspelle’s software-only approach addresses this critical need in a unique and effective way,” said VP Randy Robinson. “Given our mutual focus on flexibility and ease of implementation, customers reap these benefits almost immediately.”

WRQ says that HP terminal-based applications often rely on protocols that are not compatible with the Internet, making it difficult for users to access these systems remotely. Although traditional VPNs can alleviate this issue to some extent, some solutions can be prohibitively expensive because of complexity in implementation and ongoing administrative costs.

The integration between Aspelle Everywhere and Reflection for the Web is designed to eliminate this problem by “wrapping” non-Internet protocols in SSL, enabling authorized users to access host applications securely via the Internet. The combined solution delivers browser-based terminal emulation for HP2392 and HP7009x terminals, as well as IBM’s 3270 and 5250, VT52, VT100, VT220, VT320 and VT420, running over an SSL-encrypted channel. It also offers screen printing for IBM 3287 and IBM 3812 (HPT and non-HPT), as well as VT logging and controller mode printing, and HP’s pass-through printing.

WRQ’s senior Reflection for the Web product manager Donovan Deakin said users can access all applications, including those from the HP 3000, from any geographical location and through even the most complex, vertical firewall environments.

“This gives us the option of providing more than secure remote host access,” Deakin said. “We can also access other network resources like file servers, e-mail or an enterprise application that remote users need access to.” VPNs are popular for intra-company communications, as well as links between trading partners.

Aspelle’s client-less solution provides access through Microsoft’s platform, using Windows Terminal Services on a dedicated Windows 2000 or XP server. “You’re doing a lot of encryption and decryption on the server, which can be very CPU-intensive,” Deakin said.

The concept of SSL-based VPNs has been taking off in IT shops, according to IDC analyst Lucinda Borovick. “Enterprise customers want to deploy existing host applications to an ever-expanding remote and mobile end-user population,” she said. “By working with Aspelle, WRQ can offer a comprehensive solution that incorporates the growing demand for SSL VPNs.”

Deakin believes the HP customers are elevating their security requirements on networks, as a result of increased telecommuting, users outside a firewall, or new partnerships. Remote users with needs other than just host access are the target market for the Aspelle-WRQ solution.

Healthcare organizations, for example, might have host systems inside their firewall which they don’t want to expose to outside networks. VPN can offer access to these hosts for authorized users “without having to expose them to the outside,” Deakin explained. “Customers using these solutions are looking to minimize risk as much as possible.”

Because WRQ has added support for the secure SOCKS V4 protocol, Reflection for the Web will also be able to work with other SOCKS-capable software solutions. “Our customers prefer to have choices and alternatives,” Deakin said. “With IT spending down, customers are spending more on security, but they want to minimize expenditures on infrastructure. This will make it easier for them to deal with the current spending realities.”