Panda Security Launches UTM Device

Panda Security is playing catch-up a bit in the networking security space with the launch of a unified perimeter security device leveraging the cloud, helping partners compete against bigger challengers in the UTM space.

Like many unified threat management appliances, the Panda GateDefender Integra eSeries is touted as an all-in-one security solution that defends against a wide array of threats, but also provides remote management capabilities for partners via an easy-to-use cloud interface.

The new security appliance comes in two models, both of which target its core SMB market segment: the eSoho for organizations with up to 25 seats, and the eSB for businesses with up to 50 users.

Altogether, Panda’s new UTM device contains a standard array of features: firewall, IPS, anti-malware, content filtering, anti-spam, Web filtering, VPN, line backup and multiple connection technologies. Differentiating the all-in-one device from others in the UTM space are its cloud capabilities, which enable it to detect and respond quickly to threats. The cloud engine also facilitates flexible connectivity that allows secure connections for remote offices and users relying on personal and disparate mobile devices, as well as temporary guests logging onto the network. The cloud also paves the way for remote, cloud-based management – a feature helping channel partners build out and refine a wider array of management services for the SMB.

In addition, Panda touts enhanced user productivity and energy efficiencies, spam neutralization, restricted access to time-wasting and energy-draining applications, and bandwidth usage control put firmly in the hands of IT administrators or channel partners.

The launch of a UTM device is good news for partners, who can complement their portfolio of cloud and endpoint security offerings with one that will ultimately prevent them from turning to Panda competitors to meet customers’ networking security needs. And among other things, the cloud capabilities may enable partners to get their foot in the door or expand their SMB businesses by providing  a myriad of monitoring and remote management services for lower market customers.

Panda is certainly not the first antivirus vendor to make forays into the networking security appliance space. Last year, endpoint security firm Sophos made inroads with its acquisition of UTM vendor Astaro and has since attempted to take bites out of market share with a series of UTM launches.

However, Spain-based Panda Security, which made a name for itself in the cloud antivirus market, could be entering the UTM space a bit too late to catch up to other well-established players, or even take a significant piece out of the UTM pie.

In light of consolidation trends, the UTM market remains strong and growing. No doubt, Panda hopes to leverage its cloud capabilities to capture a slice of the growing network security market with the launch. Its cloud competencies could differentiate the offering, allowing it to leapfrog it over some well-established competitors dominating the space.

One Response to “Panda Security Launches UTM Device”