StillSecure Supports Cisco's (News - Alert) Application Extension Platform with Cobia

 

StillSecure, a provider of secure network infrastructure software, announced its decision to support Cisco's Application eXtension Platform (AXP) by porting its Cobia networking and security applications to the Cisco Integrated Services Router (ISR). This cross-platform compatibility will allow branch offices leverage networking and security convergence and maximize flexibility, efficiency and innovation.

 

AXP enables developers, partners, and ISVs (independent software vendors) to develop applications capable of running on Cisco ISR. Cisco describes AXP as follows: "The Cisco AXP consists of open, Linux-based Cisco ISR hardware modules for application development and hosting to support a tighter integration of the network and applications."

 

Cisco is providing a software developer's kit (SDK) and application programming interface (API) for its opened-up ISR. This enables companies to port applications to the IOS router software and/or application extension platform (AEP) blade. This combined solution helps branch office manage situations of limited resources, rack space and budget.

 

Cobia's modular design and web-based management interface enables users to implement the complete network or a subset by tailoring the Cobia platform to the needs of each network. Since Cobia platform has an on-board router, as well as other networking, and security services such as firewall, DHCP, and intrusion detection/prevention (IDS/IPS), it can be used as a standalone solution as well.

 

Post StillSecure (News - Alert) and Cisco integration, the current Cisco installed base will be able to take advantage of the additional features like networking, security, VoIP, and wireless solutions being developed in Cobia.

 

"The future has no room for standalone routers. We applaud Cisco for recognizing the changing market and providing companies like StillSecure with the opportunity to develop cross-platform compatibility that allows end users to take advantage of combined networking and security solutions," said Alan Shimel, Chief Strategy Officer at StillSecure.

 

"StillSecure has always been a big proponent of open standards. Cisco's announcement validates our strategy with the Cobia platform, which addresses four main pillars -- the convergence of networking and security, virtualization, advances in general-purpose hardware, and the increasing adoption of open source in commercial and government environments."