U.S. Robotics launches innovative Firewall/VPN Router with Network Attached Storage

Equipped with advanced technology for protecting networked small businesses and remote offices, the new router is the only affordable, high-performance firewall and VPN appliance equipped with unique, file server capabilities.

According to Yusuf Syed, Regional Manager Middle East, U.S. Robotics, "With the growing emphasis on security, the ability to protect sensitive data is a primary concern for any network. The Middle East has recently witnessed a significant number of viral intrusions. Due to a lack of strong network protection infrastructure, businesses continue to be susceptible to such attacks. US Robotics is the only network equipment provider exclusively offering a firewall router, VPN client and server, as well as a NAS appliance, packaged in a single device at such an affordable price."

Powered by the Intel® IXP422 network processor, the USR8200 provides a comprehensive set of security features designed to protect remote office and small business networks from uninvited guests.

"These high performance, low power, and integrated encryption features of the Intel IXP422 network processor offer capabilities typically found in large corporate networks," explained Jim Finnegan, General Manager of the Network Processor Division at Intel Corporation. By integrating these high-end features into the USR8200, US Robotics have created a router that offers advanced security to all kinds of networks, irrespective of size and price.

This incredibly intuitive appliance provides the security features most demanded by businesses including Stateful Packet Inspection firewall; protection against Denial of Service attacks; and DMZ (an area outside the firewall) and VPN support (Client and Server - IPSec and PPTP). Equipped with 64MB RAM and 16MB flash memory, the device provides the throughput necessary for today's data intensive environments. With no user license requirements, the USR8200 supports up to 253 IPSec connections - by far the most in its class. Moreover, VPN connection wizards integrated into the management interface make it easier to add and configure secure VPN tunnels.

More than a firewall, the powerful and expandable broadband router also supports NAS. Unique in the industry, it includes USB 2.0(2) and IEEE-1394 FireWire (1) ports to add networked storage. The user would need to simply plug in external drives to deliver networked storage accessible to all network members on the LAN. External access is also available with the built-in FTP server.

"Accessories like an external FireWire or USB 2.0 hard drive provide companies the ability to add networked file server capability at less than half the cost of an actual dedicated computer," explained Syed. "The USR8200 provides an expandable network, data sharing device and affordable foundation for any small office network."

Ideal for SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) and SMB (Small/Medium business) networks, the USR8200 uses U.S. Robotics' SecureStack modular design, which easily stacks with other U.S. Robotics networking, wireless and broadband equipment to minimize desktop clutter. Its simple Web-based interface eliminates the need for users to learn complicated network management tools and supports universal plug and play for easy installation and configuration.

USR8200 is now available throughout the Middle East through U.S. Robotics distribution channel.