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Extreme Networks Gets EMC VSPEX Validation: Page 2 of 2

Solera Platform Integrates Blue Coat Threat Ratings

Solera Networks, which was recently bought by Blue Coat Systems, has released Blue Coat ThreatBLADES, which combine Solera’s Security Analytics Platform -- previously known as DeepSee -- with Blue Coat’s WebPulse Collaborative Defense, a Web threat rating service.

ThreatBLADES comes in three versions: MalwareAnalysis BLADE, WebThreat BLADE and FileThreatBlade. MalwareAnalysis BLADE, available both on-premise or in the cloud, uses sandbox technology to identify and analyze infected files, including zero-day attacks or other nasty code embedded in files. WebThreat BLADE uses IP and URL reputation from WebPulse to deal with threats such as botnets and phishing attacks. FileThreat BLADE also uses WebPulse to protect against viruses and malware hiding in a wide variety of file types, including Microsoft Office documents, executables, Web objects, Java and Flash.

Blue Coat has been expanding its security portfolio since late last year. In December, it acquired network security automation firm Crossbeam Systems, and more recently it acquired SSL technology from Netronome, which it incorporated into the Solera Security Analytics Platform.

Blue Coat ThreatBLADES will be available individually or as part of the company’s Advanced Protection Suite in September.

FrontRange Cranks Up The HEAT

FrontRange has released the latest version of its HEAT Cloud IT service management product that includes a number of new features, including the ability for users to be more social as a means to improve productivity.

The new social groups capability in Heat Cloud 2013.1 allows users to post messages directly to specific service teams, groups or user profiles. Other productivity enhancements include a watch list that allows users to access recent work with a single click and a new context-based user interface to better support self-service. The UI can be customized with an organization's branding.

Other new features in HEAT Cloud include support for IE 10, additional language support (German, Dutch and Portuguese), a new Web services API, and HEAT Cloud Connect, which provides better integration with external apps.

FrontRange has positioned itself as “the only provider of hybrid ITSM.” HEAT is built on a multi-tenant platform that can be deployed on-premise or in the cloud. However, Stephen Mann, an analyst at Forrester Research, blogged earlier this year that hybrid ITSM is a term that is open to misinterpretation, noting that it is not about applying service management to hybrid environments, but a choice of delivery model for ITSM.

Earlier this year, Mann released a report on SaaS-based ITSM tools and how they are faring. Many of the 23 vendors on the list offer both on-premise and cloud-based ITSM services, including HP and BMC.