Intel developed a technical solution to solve the problem of getting H.323 standards-based Internet communications through firewalls. Firewalls are the software programs that restrict the flow of information between a company's network and the Internet in order to keep sensitive information private. Intel produced a technical paper to document the solution for allowing the H.323 communication standard to be supported in firewalls and then developed software to validate that solution. Intel worked with the firewall vendors to validate the H.323 standard in their upcoming products. With this announcement, Check Point Software, Cisco and Trusted Information Systems have all stated support for the H.323 standard and that they plan to offer standard-compliant firewall products later this year.
Cisco is committed to bring the broadest possible communications capabilities to business users.
Incorporating Intel's new H.323-compliant technology to support a new generation of multimedia products is a perfect example of our commitment to making Gauntlet not only the most secure firewall available, but also the most useful. Through the company's high-performance Stateful Inspection implementation, support for new applications and standards, such as H.323, can be included quickly and easily. By supporting H.323-based technology through the PIX Firewall, users are ensured expedient delivery of Internet telephony communications. The proxy can ensure that only valid H.323 traffic is permitted through the Gauntlet firewall. It can also enforce access control policies to determine which users can initiate or receive H.323 calls, what destinations are appropriate, and whether a particular user is allowed to use video facilities.