WatchGuard Technologies Inc. has integrated its network security portfolio with Autotask Corp.’s PSA software and rolled out three new Firebox T Series unified threat management appliances with faster throughput than their predecessors and features not found on those earlier models.
Joint customers of Seattle-based WatchGuard and East Greenbush, N.Y.-based Autotask can now configure WatchGuard firewall appliances to open a service ticket in Autotask’s PSA solution automatically when specific security-, hardware-, and subscription-related variables fall outside pre-set parameters.
The Autotask system will close those tickets automatically too when the relevant issue has been resolved, and reopen them if necessary—rather than flood technicians with multiple, redundant tickets—should the service problem recur.
In addition, WatchGuard firewalls can now automatically add and synchronize asset information with Autotask’s PSA solution, including subscription start and end dates, device serial numbers, operating system versions, and more.
“This integration, developed by a leader in network security, will create a solid combined offering designed to automate and optimize business processes,” said Len DiCostanzo, Autotask’s senior vice president of channel development, in prepared comments. “Automation of these processes is critical to ensure the highest level of services for clients, while reducing operational overhead for our partners. Together, we are enabling our global base of mutual partners to improve their service delivery while increasing staff productivity.”
Autotask’s is the second PSA platform to be integrated with WatchGuard products. The ConnectWise Manage PSA system, from Tampa, Fla.-based managed services software maker ConnectWise, can import ticketing, security asset, and reporting directly from WatchGuard Firebox appliances and the WatchGuard Dimension analytics solution as well.
“WatchGuard continues to partner with organizations to develop advanced integrations that minimize the operational complexity associated with managing multiple technologies,” said Andrew Young, senior vice president of product management at WatchGuard, in a press statement. “As a direct result of feedback from our Channel Partners, we prioritized our integration with Autotask as a critical solution in managed security services enablement. We are thrilled with the outcome and all the positive feedback we have received from our MSSP community.”
According to WatchGuard, the new T15, T35, and T55 tabletop Firebox appliances it rolled out this week enable small offices, home offices, and distributed enterprises to enjoy significantly faster security inspection performance.
In addition, the T35 and T55 models include built-in 802.11ac wireless adapters and an integrated Power over Ethernet port, for use with security cameras, wireless access points, and other peripherals.
“Hackers no longer discriminate based on location or the size of a business,” said Brendan Patterson, director of product management at WatchGuard, in prepared remarks. “Small offices and home offices are just as likely to be targeted as enterprise locations, which is why they need access to the same enterprise-grade protection, including services like APT Blocker and Threat Detection and Response (TDR). As internet speeds continue to increase, we continue to improve the performance of our tabletop Fireboxes to ensure that security doesn’t restrict network performance or interfere with business goals.”
WatchGuard’s three latest T Series devices replace its older T10, T30, and T50 models. All three new units are available immediately.
ConnectWise is holding the 2017 edition of IT Nation, its annual partner conference, in Orlando at present. Numerous vendors, including AppRiver LLC, Barracuda MSP, and Pax8, have announced integrations with ConnectWise products at that show already, with more expected before the show wraps up on Friday. WatchGuard is one of a small number of companies to unveil tighter links with Autotask software this week instead.
Two weeks ago, business continuity vendor Datto Inc., of Norwalk, Conn., announced that it’s been acquired by private investment firm Vista Equity Partners and merged with Autotask to form a giant managed services vendor offering an expansive array of administration, BDR, networking, and power distribution products.
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