SEATTLE and FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:WGRD - News), a leading provider of network security solutions, and Citrix Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq:CTXS - News), the global leader in access infrastructure solutions, today announced the availability of the WatchGuard Firebox SSL Core VPN Gateway with Citrix Secure Access for small and medium businesses (SMBs). (See related partnership release at http://www.watchguard.com/press/releases/wg329.asp). The Firebox SSL Core VPN Gateway combines Citrix SSL VPN secure access technology, the Citrix Access Gateway(TM), with WatchGuard's Firebox hardware platform.

The new product provides a professional-grade access solution for increasingly mobile SMB workforces. Secure, always-on connectivity to core applications from any Internet access device is now available without configuration changes, custom connectors or development work. Firebox SSL Core VPN Gateway is the only product designed specifically for SMBs that allows authorized users to connect through an auto-updating, Web-deployed client. This provides a true in-office desktop experience with the full network access benefits of IPSec -- all in a single appliance without the hassle often associated with the ongoing client maintenance required by IPSec products.

SMBs can now empower remote users with the same functionality previously only available to large enterprises with IT staff capable of supporting complex implementations. Administration is streamlined and total cost of deployment is reduced, as there is no need to Web-enable applications or install separate connectors.

Firebox SSL Core VPN Gateway gives users secure "anywhere" connectivity by providing two access modes -- Secure Access client and Kiosk -- to extend the network's reach. In the Secure Access client mode, users can access any application or network resource. Kiosk mode enables users to securely access Citrix® ICA®, Remote Desktop, SSH, Telnet 3270 emulator, VNC servers and any other Web-based network resource using Web-enabled handhelds, laptops, desktops or Internet kiosks, whose browsers support SSL in Java(TM) or Windows® environments.

Designed to support up to 205 concurrent users, the Firebox SSL Core VPN Gateway does not burden SMBs with the complexity, costs and management challenges of solutions designed for thousands of users. Additionally, the product comes with WatchGuard's LiveSecurity Service, ensuring customers have access to support, training, expert advice and alerts, further maximizing value and lowering overall cost of ownership.

"Citrix SSL VPN remote access technology is rapidly replacing IPSec solutions in large organizations. Small and medium businesses have the same issues with current IPSec solutions," said Gordon Payne, vice president of marketing, Citrix Gateways Division. "The pairing of proven Citrix SSL VPN remote access with WatchGuard's Firebox appliance has created a winning solution for cost-conscious SMB customers looking for a cost-effective replacement for IPSec products."

"The first generation of SSL VPN appliances was focused on enabling and securing remote access to corporate networks. While they accomplished this task fairly well, there were limitations in terms of user experience, flexibility, dependability and cost," said John Stuckey, WatchGuard vice president of marketing. "The Firebox SSL Core VPN Gateway delivers the next generation of SSL appliances by replicating an 'in-office' experience for the user and providing the scalability and cost structure sorely needed by the SMB."

WatchGuard Technologies Inc.