Like Binary Research's Remotely Anywhere and Spartacom's Linktivity, the FirePass 1000 provides remote control through a standard Web browser and requires no guest or client software. Further, its client support goes beyond Win32 systems to the RIM Blackberry, PalmOS, PocketPC and handheld phones (iMode and WAP). Browser support for Java, JavaScript and ActiveX is not necessary but will enhance the end-user experience. The FirePass remote-control solution was not as feature-rich as NetSupport Manager or pcAnywhere and did not distinguish itself from rivals in transferring bitmap files. However, it proved to be the fastest file transfer performer in our roundup and came in second in our stability test, identifying a broken communication connection in approximately 14 seconds and, after alerting us with a pop-up, closing gracefully.
uRoam's centralized remote-access solution provides authentication services using a local database or an LDAP or RADIUS server. It also offers support for Vasco's DigiPass strong, two-factor authentication. It identifies itself to remote browsers using an x509 certificate from a trusted root authority in your enterprise (our test server shipped with a Thawte certificate).
The FirePass server manages remote sessions and renders network resources through Web browsers using a suite of application modules called Webifyers. Webifyers act as the interface between network infrastructure and applications to translate user input and display output into content viewable in a remote browser. They not only provide remote-control functionality but also support legacy applications, such as 5250 and 3270 terminal emulation, and Microsoft Terminal Service, SSH, telnet and VNC access to servers. Special Webifyers also support Citrix solutions, POP3/IMAP and Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes.
The FirePass's network configuration can be set from a Web browser or a menu-based command line using a null-modem cable attached to the serial port. Once configured for the test network, we set up the box using intuitive Web forms. The server maintenance pages provide plenty of options that let you limit access to the administrative console by IP address, renew/replace the SSL certificate, configure SNMP agents, stop and restart services, and back up and restore the server's configuration. Other administrative functions provide for a default SMTP server, administrative e-mail alerts and firmware updates. The FirePass also includes central logging for all services along with standard and configurable reports.
Users access the FirePass in one of two modes. In "My Network" mode, users log in and have access to network resources such as e-mail, terminal sessions (telnet and 3270) and terminal services. In this mode, the FirePass is a fully functional, multiuser network client for remote administrators. The second mode, "My Desktop," lets the FirePass authenticate remote users to their desktop computers in the enterprise. Each user account requires a license. If you provide both My Network and My Desktop to one user, two licenses are required.
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