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GateProtect Announces Skype Blocker Security Patch
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Security Featured Article


April 26, 2010

GateProtect Announces Skype Blocker Security Patch

By Anamika Singh, TMCnet Contributor


GateProtect, a German-based IT security  company, released a security patch for its Unified Threat Management  or UTM appliances that allows companies to block the use of Skype (News - Alert). 


This stops dangerous malware from entering the network via a potential security vulnerability, and preventing unwanted messaging and chatting during working hours. The patch, called HU-01050, will be installed automatically on all gateProtect firewall systems from Version 8.6 via the update server.

The use of instant messaging programs like Skype, ICQ and AOL (News - Alert) Instant Messenger is discouraged in many companies. As they enable people to share files, they can pose a risk to corporate networks. Skype is tough instant messenger as it is based on proprietary protocols that escape detection by proxies and firewalls in various ways, also the encryption. 

“Skype’s ability to slip through firewalls and NAT gateways is well known,” stated Dennis Monner, CEO of gateProtect. “Administrators have long had an ongoing battle to block Skype. As no administrator permissions are needed to install it, many employees are unaware of their company’s security policies and use it without informing their IT department. As a result, companies have virtually no control over the data users share via Skype.”

The Skype service uses Port 80 (HTTP) and Port 443 (HTTPS) for its internet connection, and in most companies these ports are open as they are needed for web use. Skype can also use higher ports (above1024) for its internet access.

gateProtect solutions combine security and network features such as firewalls, bridging, VLAN, single sign-on, traffic shaping, QoS, IPSec/SSL (X.509), IDS/IPS, web filters, virus filters, real-time spam detection and HTTPS proxy in one system.

Apart from the high-level of technology, all gateProtect products have a special feature: their uniquely ergonomic operability. gateProtect implements the ISO norm 9241 guidelines consistently in all their systems. With its patented eGUI (ergonomic graphic user interface) technology and the new “Command Center V2“, gateProtect has set a new standard in the configuration and management of firewall systems.


Anamika Singh is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Anamika's articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Erin Harrison


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