TippingPoint unveils integrated security solution

TippingPoint is staking its claim in the developing market for integrated security solutions with its new X505 platform, which combines intrusion-prevention system (IPS) technology with other security systems such as a firewall and an IP security-based virtual private network.

Other features include bandwidth management, Web content filtering and dynamic routing.

The X505 is the first joint development project between TippingPoint and 3Com, since 3Com acquired it in January.

As security threats have evolved into broader, more sophisticated attacks, and mobile devices have blurred the definition of the network "edge," the standard firewall defense is proving inadequate. Increasingly, a combination of security technologies is needed to provide a layered defense that protects against attacks from both outside and inside the enterprise.

Yankee Group senior analyst Chris Liebert said he views the X505 as indicative of the “broader trend toward IPS as today's ‘must-have’ security solution, with firewalls becoming a feature of IPS."

The X505's IPS technology will block a large range of worms, viruses, Trojans and other attacks, according to TippingPoint. The device is also regularly updated for vulnerability and zero day threat protection through the 3Com division's "Digital Vaccine" service.

The X505's functionality can also be combined, such as applying IPS and traffic shaping within an IPSec VPN tunnel.

With general availability scheduled for December, the X505 is priced at just under $4,000.