Why are security appliances so popular with data center managers? Because they're easier to install, configure, test, and often offer better performance than systems that you build yourself. However, not all security appliances are created equal.

Until recently, most security vendors - with the exception of firewall producers like Cisco and Juniper Networks (formerly NetScreen Technologies) - shipped software products. Customers then deployed the software themselves, on servers that they configured. Today, however, users want preinstalled network appliances that they can slot straight into racks.

As the name implies, ASIC-based appliances are the most specialized and least flexible - once built, they can't be updated. ASIC designers build an entire specific instruction set into the silicon. So why use an ASIC? They're blazingly fast and cheap to mass-produce.1 On the negative side, ASIC development cycles are long - 18 months isn't unusual - and expensive. Security vendors that build products around ASICs include Fortinet and Juniper.

When architecting appliances, vendors must balance price with performance, time-to-market against time-on-the-market, and Moore's Law against the increasing rate of bandwidth growth.7 However, security appliance customers also have some tough choices to make

The right architecture for a security appliance depends on the function that it will perform, and how that function is likely to change in the coming years.

Back in September of 2001, SearchSecurity's sister publication Information Security magazine published an article in which I addressed concerns regarding general-purpose servers versus purpose-built security appliances. Since then and despite their expense, security appliances have become the foundation of the modular enterprise. As an introduction to my upcoming SearchSecurity webcast Security appliances: Hype vs. reality, let's take a brief look at some of the success factors that have contributed to the popularity of security appliances.

Most organizations who run their own mail server will benefit from the peace of mind offered by a PerfectMail appliance. Please review the following points to determine which PerfectMail appliance is right for you.

Usually when someone says "antivirus," you think software. Antivirus software comes in many flavors: server-based, client-based, gateway scanners. But it can often cost you more for each version, and the software won't work properly without all the components. Are there options other than software? Some companies are touting hardware solutions that can be applied to the virus problem.

Proventia Network Multi-Function Security is a Unified Threat Management (UTM) appliance that keeps businesses running by providing protection against internet threats.

Eliminate the need for dedicated security resources and simplifies troubleshooting. If an appliance happens to fail, it is easier to simply replace it than troubleshoot the problem. This process restores service faster and can be accomplished by a non-technical person. A feature that is especially important for remote offices without a dedicated technical staff onsite.