McAfee is best known for its antivirus software and endpoint protection solutions, but it is also a maker of network security devices. A new offering on that front represents the fruits of its partnership with its new owner, Intel: the NS-series network intrusion prevention system (IPS) appliance.
McAfee has long offered IPS appliances, but this is the first one built on Intel technology. Intel and McAfee collaborated closely to develop a unit with higher port density than previous offerings, that delivers 40Gbps throughput with all services running, and that provides protection for an organization both internally and externally, company reps told me.
The NS series is available in three models: the 2U-sized 9100 and 9200 models (which were available in limited release last quarter), and a brand-new 4U model, the 9300. Both have two slots into which can be plugged a variety of network modules, including a 40Gbps interface or up to 16 10Gbps interfaces, as well as discrete management ports. Pricing for the appliance line starts at $165,000; the units are
available immediately.
