Global DataGuard, the premier provider of network behavior analysis-based (NBA) Unified Enterprise Security, today unveiled its VMware version of Cloud Guard Unified Enterprise Cloud Security technology for private cloud environments. A customizable, self-contained unified security system, Cloud Guard for private clouds is designed specifically for customers implementing on-premise virtualization initiatives. It incorporates the company’s complete, industrial-strength security portfolio – patented network behavior analysis and correlation technology; intrusion detection and prevention; vulnerability scanning and management; security and event log management, analysis and monitoring; network access and policy monitoring; prioritized threat management for network, global and vendor threats and vulnerabilities; and a unified service-enabled console – and delivers immediate, extensible security within a customer’s private cloud ecosystem. Supported by 24/7 Managed Security and Professional Services that provide real-time visibility, control and oversight of an organization’s entire network environment, Global DataGuard’s VMware-based Cloud Guard suite solves the security difficulties inherent in virtual and cloud computing infrastructures and provides the ability to unify on-premise and virtual network security.

Analysts agree that securing cloud computing environments – whether public or private – is a major focus for CIOs in 2010 and beyond. Despite the promise of greater agility, cost-savings and the ability to rapidly provision for new users and new applications, analysts like Gartner’s Milind Govekar believe that as an interim measure, most customers are choosing to create a virtualized data center on-premise because they are uncomfortable with the security issues raised by cloud computing.

“Very few organizations today are going to be 100% physical, 100% virtual or 100% in the cloud. In fact, most companies that we’ve talked to are looking for a security vendor that can bridge these worlds,” stated Scott Paly, chief executive officer for Global DataGuard. “That’s why we’ve chosen to deliver cost-effective, enterprise-class security and managed services that can provide customers with greater control while effectively securing whatever mix of physical and virtual technology their network infrastructures utilize.”

Unified Private Cloud Security

Within a virtualized (private cloud) on-premise environment, Global DataGuard’s customizable suite of VMware-based security modules can reside in combination on a customer’s virtual machine, enabling security analysts to efficiently track and manage all traffic between virtual firewalls, switches and servers via a service-enabled console that provides unified administration, monitoring and reporting for the entire Cloud Guard suite.

By extending the company’s award-winning network behavior analysis-based security architecture into the virtual world, Global DataGuard can offer customers the same flexible, cost-effective, unified security benefits across mixed physical and virtualized environments, including:

• Nearly unlimited scalability;
• Full regulatory compliance with industry and government standards;
• Zero network latency;
• Unified administration, monitoring and reporting that offers comprehensive compliance reporting, weekly and summary reports, and an integrated network security ticketing system;
• Visibility into reconnaissance activity and the ability to take preventive steps to defend against attacks from today’s cybercriminals;
• Customizable, 24/7 Managed Security Services from certified security analysts that can be purchased with or without a contract; and
• Up to a 60% savings in security-related capital expenditures, training and staffing.

The VMware-based version of Cloud Guard is also supported by the CloudCheck Certification Program, a vendor-neutral service that enables businesses to ensure their cloud or premise-based/private cloud networks meet stringent government and industry standards pertaining to the confidentiality, integrity and security of sensitive customer data.

Pricing and Availability

Global DataGuard’s Cloud Guard private cloud security offering is available immediately. Custom configurations will be based on a unit price per virtual machine and application module. Global DataGuard’s Unified Enterprise Security suite and managed security services are also available through a 30-day free product and services evaluation to qualified organizations. Companies interested in this ‘no-cost’ trial offer may request additional information by contacting Global DataGuard at 972.980.1444, x226, or by completing a request for information on the Contact Us section of the Global DataGuard website.