Virtual Security Gets a Boost

How secure is your virtual environment? Recent US-CERT Cyber Security Bulletins list several vulnerabilities for versions of software from VMware that allow attackers to cause denial of service attacks, generate buffer overflows, expose password logging and gain unauthorized privileges that can be used to hijack processes. The exposures have been addressed in patches by the company, but concern has been growing that virtual machines may get less security-related attention from IT staff than physical boxes.

Reflex Security, which develops virtual security software, has enhanced access control functionality and device visibility in its Virtual Security Appliance (VSA). VSA discovers virtual assets and maps them so users can attain a visual view of the virtual infrastructure that is being secured. The new functionality, expected in the next couple of months, will allow users to drill down into the virtualized network infrastructure.

The software profiles the virtual network state, assets, services and communication flows dynamically and provides anti-virus, anti-spyware, network discovery and network policy enforcement services. VSA supports VMware ESX Server, XenSource and Virtual Iron.

"Reflex VSA's ability to expose the virtual network to the security manager and protect it from threats is a proven asset, and the first of its kind in the industry," said Hezi Moore, CTO of Reflex. "Our development is building upon VSA's visibility functionality to add virtual server access control which will invoke permission-based controls for users that can add or remove virtual machines and virtual network components."

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • Microsoft

    Microsoft Introduces Its First Quantum Computing Chip

    Microsoft has unveiled Majorana 1, its first quantum computing chip, aimed at deployment in datacenters.

  • illustration of a futuristic building labeled "AI & Innovation," featuring circuit board patterns and an AI brain motif, surrounded by geometric trees and a simplified sky

    Cal Poly Pomona Launches AI and Innovation Center

    In an effort to advance AI innovation, foster community engagement, and prepare students for careers in STEM fields and business, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona has teamed up with AI, cloud, and advisory services provider Avanade to launch a new Avanade AI & Innovation Center.

  • computer screen displaying a landline phone being unplugged from a single cord, with a modern office desk, keyboard, and subtle lighting in the background

    Microsoft to Discontinue Skype Services

    Microsoft has announced that it is shutting down service for its Skype telecommunications and video calling services on May 5, 2025.

  • illustration of a football stadium with helmet on the left and laptop with ed tech icons on the right

    The 2025 NFL Draft and Ed Tech Selection: A Strategic Parallel

    In the fast-evolving landscape of collegiate football, the NFL, and higher education, one might not immediately draw connections between the 2025 NFL Draft and the selection of proper educational technology for a college campus. However, upon closer examination, both processes share striking similarities: a rigorous assessment of needs, long-term strategic impact, talent or tool evaluation, financial considerations, and adaptability to a dynamic future.