All-In-One Applicance Eases SMB Security

Powered by SonicWall's proprietary SonicOS operating system, the TZ 170 is both robust in features and easy to manage. The SonicOS offers easy-to-use browser-based management and comprehensive, well-defined security features.

Solution providers will find the TZ 170 Wireless easy to install. The unit includes five 10/100 Ethernet ports for connecting client systems, a clearly labeled 10/100 WAN port and an optional 10/100 port for add-on capabilities such as a DMZ or failover configurations. While those ports are adequate for most small businesses, CRN Test Center engineers would have liked to see Gigabit Ethernet as an option for client system connectivity.

The TZ 170 integrates a wireless access point compatible with both 802.11b and 802.11g standards. This functionality means sites can push the unit's inherent VPN support down to wireless connections, bringing strong security to wireless traffic and eliminating the need to rely on weak encryption schemes offered by standard access points. The unit uses dual antennas and offers a diversity mode for extending range and signal strength. A wireless guest mode allows guests to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi, while isolating those guests from the internal network. The TZ 170 is a great idea for businesses looking to add hot-spot services to their locations.

The TZ 170 offers security features beyond the typical security solution, including content filtering. The content filtering engine uses a host service to validate Web site addresses against company policies. Administrators define the type of content allowed into the internal network and the TZ 170 compares every Web site requested against a dynamic list of classified Web sites. The content filtering feature can be customized, scheduled or disabled to meet most offices' needs. Spam is another concern, and the TZ 170 offers blacklist-based spam filtering that is consistently updated by SonicWall. The spam filter can also identify open-relay e-mail servers, which are often used for spam forwarding.

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Intrusion-detection capability is also included. Intrusion detection can create a more secure environment and, when combined with the wireless functionality, adds a new layer of security to an already full-featured security device. The TZ 170 starts at $695 and solution providers can garner recurring revenue from the renewable subscriptions associated with the unit's optional services.

SonicWall sells exclusively through the channel, and the company's Medallion Partner program is currently undergoing a restructuring process. The program offers three partner levels based on certification and sales volume. Partners fall into Approved, Silver and Gold categories. To qualify for the program, partners must complete a certification and channel partner education program. Benefits include pre- and post-sales support, access to technical and sales support personnel, MDF, end-user seminars and sales and marketing collateral. Sales and technical training is available either on-site or over the Web.