REDMOND, Wash. -- Microsoft Corp. today announced the general availability of Intelligent Application Gateway (IAG) 2007. IAG 2007 combines the secure sockets layer virtual private networking (SSL VPN) and Web application firewall product obtained in the acquisition of Whale Communications in July 2006, with the Microsoft® Internet Security and Acceleration Server (ISA Server), integrated to provide a single, consolidated appliance for network perimeter defense, remote access, endpoint security management and application-layer protection. More information about ISA Server and Whale Communications can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/forefront/edgesecurity.

With the new integrated solution, Microsoft also announced two original equipment manufacturing (OEM) partnerships with leading appliance manufacturing and distribution companies and unveiled a new pricing and licensing model to make SSL VPNs more cost-effective for all small businesses — from small to large enterprises — and for all deployments.

“Web-based remote access is becoming ubiquitous, for companies big and small. With the need to provide access from diverse endpoints to multiple applications, it is imperative that enterprises have remote access solutions that can meet expanded connection and security needs,” said Charles Kolodgy of IDC. “Microsoft’s Intelligent Application Gateway provides the functionality companies require while incorporating Microsoft’s standard licensing model.”

IAG 2007 is now available in pre-installed and configured appliances manufactured by Celestix Networks Inc. and Network Engines Inc. and sold through a wide range of reseller partners. To meet the needs of security resellers and make SSL VPNs more affordable for all customers, Microsoft has simplified pricing and licensing for IAG 2007, which will now include all-in-one pricing for the gateway, and all Intelligent Application Optimizers, Network Connectors and security modules developed for business-critical applications to implement specific client-side and enhanced application-layer security policies. In addition, client access licenses will now be based on the number of authenticated users or devices connecting to IAG appliances rather than on concurrent users, providing customers with more flexible and scalable pricing and licensing.

“To thrive in today’s fast-paced interconnected world, businesses need to balance secure access with protecting applications and network infrastructure,” said Margaret Arakawa, senior director of the Security and Access Product Group at Microsoft. “Working together with Celestix and Network Engines, we’re providing a comprehensive platform that meets both of these needs cost-effectively. Building on our line-of-edge security and access products — ISA Server and IAG — we will continue to bring innovative and flexible solutions to our customers, and build on our vision to provide secure, seamless connections in today’s always-on, always-connected world.”

Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT)