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Extreme Networks Modular Operating System Now Provides Hardened, DHCP-Based Edge Security

Posted on: Monday, 29 January 2007, 09:00 CST

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Extreme Networks, Inc. , today introduced the latest version of its innovative modular operating system, ExtremeXOS(TM) version 11.6, featuring new enhancements for securing networks using Network Access Control (NAC) technologies. ExtremeXOS now strengthens policy enforcement to help keep the network free from attacks through switch-based enforcement that allows network administrators to securely deploy NAC using DHCP or 802.1x.

Until today, many enterprises deploying NAC to protect the network perimeter have used DHCP servers, which left vulnerabilities. Users that were denied access could simply configure a static IP address to gain entry into the network and get out of quarantine. Extreme Networks(R) removes this NAC exploit with ExtremeXOS, as the switch enforces all endpoints to only allow devices with valid DHCP assigned IP addresses into the network. Users that attempt to bypass NAC solutions will be automatically blocked by the switch and alert the administrator of the attempted breach.

ExtremeXOS has also introduced enhancements to 802.1x through the innovative Universal Port framework. Universal Port simplifies network operations by automatically provisioning network resources when new users and devices connect. When combined with 802.1x, Universal Port provides more granular policy enforcement including per-user Quality of Service (QoS), rate limiting of bandwidth, and dynamic ACLs.

Both of these enhancements in the latest ExtremeXOS release can be used in conjunction with Sentriant(R) AG, Extreme Networks NAC solution, to lock down the edge of the network and help ensure endpoints are free from threats and in compliance with company security policies before gaining access. Sentriant AG provides deep endpoint testing without requiring an agent and supports both DHCP and 802.1x enforcement modes allowing it to easily integrate with any network environment.

"By strengthening policy enforcement at the switch, Extreme Networks is taking another critical step to delivering edge security that is open and more cost-effective," said Suresh Gopalakrishnan, vice president and general manager for Extreme Networks emerging technologies business unit. "When evaluating edge security approaches customers truly want a NAC solution with the flexibility to operate with both DCHP and 802.1x. With this software release, customers can choose their best security approach regardless of the enforcement mode."

Extreme Networks is also furthering its support for Microsoft's NAP initiative. ExtremeXOS switches will allow for the deployment of NAP, when it is released, with no hardware upgrades using standards-based 802.1x. ExtremeXOS 11.6 contains several NAP-related enhancements including the ability for the switch to automatically quarantine endpoints while still allowing access to valid remediation servers based on information provided by the NAP policy server.

Introduced December 2003, ExtremeXOS is the industry's first modular operating system with an extensible foundation for converged networks running voice and video services. Along with built-in security capabilities that provide network access control integrated with end point integrity checking, ExtremeXOS has been designed from the ground up to support the next-generation Internet Protocol, IPv6.

ExtremeXOS version 11.6 Availability

ExtremeXOS version 11.6 is available now to customers to use on products under a valid service contract, and is included in all new Blackdiamond(R) core switches and Summit(R) edge switches. To learn more about ExtremeXOS please visit http://www.extremenetworks.com/.

Extreme Networks, Inc.

Extreme Networks designs, builds, and installs Ethernet infrastructure solutions that solve the toughest business communications challenges. Our commitment to open networking sets us apart from the alternatives by delivering meaningful insight and unprecedented control to applications and services. We believe openness is the best foundation for growth, freedom, flexibility, and choice. We focus on enterprises and service providers who demand high performance, converged networks that support voice, video and data, over a wired and wireless infrastructure.

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release, including without limitation statements as to features, security, and performance of ExtremeXOS are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date. Because such statements deal with future events, they are subject to risks and uncertainties, including network design and actual results of use of the product in different environments. We undertake no obligation to update the forward-looking information in this release. Other important factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are contained in the Company's 10-Qs and 10-Ks which are on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission ( http://www.sec.gov/ ).

NOTE: Extreme Networks, BlackDiamond, Sentriant, Summit and ExtremeXOS are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Extreme Networks, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.

Extreme Networks, Inc.

CONTACT: Greg Cross of Extreme Networks Public Relations, +1-408-579-3483, or gcross@extremenetworks.com

Web site: http://www.extremenetworks.com/

Source: PRNewswire-FirstCall

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