SonicWALL Releases Deep Security Integrated Switching Appliance

SonicWALL has announced a new network appliance that combines deep inspection security and integrated switching in the same unit. The PRO 1260 targets the small enterprise and network operator that wants to reduce network complexity and consolidate hardware.

The rack-mountable appliance incorporates a wide range of security features, including a deep inspection firewall, IPSec virtual private network, gateway anti-virus and intrusion prevention, providing real-time protection against viruses and worms. The PRO 1260 also features an integrated 24-port, wire-speed auto-sensing MDIX Layer 2 switch.

It is available in two versions. The standard PRO 1260 Standard is a plug-and-play device designed for simple deployment and is available this quarter. The Enhanced version, which will be available early next year, is a fully managed L2 switch featuring custom security zones, traffic monitoring and port-level configurability for duplex and speed. It supports Internet Group Multicast Protocol and wireless LAN.

"Small businesses and branch offices have a lot to gain from an integrated solution that saves time and money, and can be deployed and managed without difficulty," SonicWALL president and CEO Matt Medeiros said in a statement. "All networks require security and switching, but few small businesses have access to the dedicated IT personnel needed to manage these functions. The PRO 1260 is a breakthrough networking option, which offers small businesses an exceptional level of control and flexibility."