FAST Telecommunication relies on Fortinet for its managed security services

These new services extend FASTtelco's existing data communications services portfolio.

FASTtelco identified an increasing demand for managed security services, specifically ones relating to the protection of their network from Internet threats. The service provider foresaw this demand as an opportunity to introduce network security as a managed service that would enable them to deliver clean Internet to all types of businesses.

In order to provide these new managed security services, FASTtelco has installed FortiGate-3600A multi-threat security platforms set up with virtual domains in order to - from one same hardware platform - isolate the security services provided to each end customer and separate the management of these virtual services from one hardware platform.

"We have evaluated security solutions from various vendors but very few had solutions specifically tailored to the needs of MSSPs." said Omar Kaaki, General Manager of FASTtelco. "The ability of the FortiGate solution to virtually segment each customer's connection and customize its configuration and profile to access all or several of the security applications we offer was decisive in our choice. FortiGate's multi-threat security platform is definitely a great option for large data center deployments such as ours."

The FortiGate-3600A multi-threat security platform was specifically designed for large enterprises and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) to ensure security and throughput. With ten gigabit Ethernet interfaces and up to 6 Gbps throughput, the FortiGate-3600A delivers comprehensive network and content protection through the integration of eight essential security applications and services - including antivirus, firewall, VPN, intrusion prevention (IPS), anti-spam, anti-spyware, Web filtering and traffic shaping.

The systems are kept up to date automatically by Fortinet's FortiGuard™ subscription services, which provide continuous updates to ensure protection against the latest viruses, worms, Trojans, and other threats - around the clock, and around the world.

"The business of ISPs in the region has evolved and most of these are now looking for additional value-added services to offer their customers, especially at the corporate level," said Bashar Bashaireh, Middle East Regional Manager at Fortinet.

"Managed security services have gained momentum in the Middle East and are poised to grow in the region. FASTtelco is one of the first to offer such a service in Kuwait and we are very pleased that they deployed our FortiGate security platforms to do so. Their SMB customers can be confident that they now have a very cost-effective, secure network solution in place."