Security | News

Firewall Suite Untangle Adds Bandwidth Control

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 12/01/10

Untangle has updated its firewall application. Version 8.0 of flagship product, Untangle, includes a module specifically for controlling bandwidth usage. Bandwidth Control, as the program is called, allows the network administrator to prioritize access to approved Web sites and services; throttle user access to the Internet; and set access quotas for individual users, sites, and applications.

"Small businesses and schools are becoming increasingly dependent on real-time access to cloud-based services. When their bandwidth is usurped by non-critical services, downloaders, or video streamers, this impacts core productivity," said Chief Operating Officer Mark Floisand. "With real-time reporting on what bandwidth is being consumed, coupled with the ability to set quotas for heavy users, network managers now have the tools they need to optimize their bandwidth consumption."

The module includes default configuration settings accessible through an installation wizard for several different organizational types and scenarios. Additional fine-grained tuning is done through an advanced mode.

Untangle is a combination of company-developed and open source programs. Bandwidth Control is available as a stand-alone program or it can be purchased through an education package. The package has 22 other utilities, including Policy Manager for creating policies for Web and remote access; Directory Connector for connecting to Active Directory to simplify policy management; and anti-virus checker Kaspersky Virus Blocker. The education package is priced at $1,080 for a year of licensing on up to 150 PCs.