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June 2024: What’s New?

Written by Callum Sinclair – Product Engineering Manager.

“What’s New?” is a series of blog posts covering recent changes to Comet in more detail. This article covers the latest changes in Comet Voyager over June 2024. 

There were three Comet releases during June – two in the Voyager release series, plus one update for our Mimas release series.

We’ve landed a few large and exciting features:

Faster Measurement of Storage Vault Sizes

Enforcing Storage Vault Quotas is an important feature of Comet, providing our Managed Service Providers (MSPs) with the ability to restrict how much data a customer is allowed to back up. This feature offers flexibility to accommodate a wide range of business cases and ensures that resources are used efficiently.

In Comet version 24.6.1 and later, we’ve made a significant enhancement to how we measure the size of stored data in a Storage Vault. This improvement dramatically reduces the time required to start a back up job.

In our test cases, for a Storage Vault with a few terabytes of data stored it would take 10 or more minutes to measure how much data was stored. In Comet 24.6.1 this now takes a few seconds. This change benefits all our customers by enabling faster job initiation, which in turn means that jobs complete quicker.

This improvement not only enhances the user experience by reducing wait times but also optimizes resource usage, allowing our MSPs to provide even better service to their clients. We’re excited about this update and the positive impact it will have on your back up operations.

Software Build Role Tenant Settings

Software Build Role is a Comet Server feature that is responsible for generating client software installers of Comet. When enabled, it activates the Download Client Software page in the Comet Server web interface.

We have now added the ability to enable or disable the Software Build Role per tenant, providing greater flexibility for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) using Comet. Additionally, we’ve introduced support to configure whether an admin account can change these settings via policy.

These enhancements offer MSPs more control over their software build configurations, allowing for tailored management and improved service offerings.

Constellation Role Memory Improvements

Constellation Role is a Comet Server feature that provides insight across multiple Comet Servers and is essential tool for automatically removing unused storage. It works by verifying if data in a storage bucket belongs to an active user account on a Comet Server and removes data with no associated user, which can occur if a user is deleted without deleting their stored data.

In older versions of Comet, Constellation Role required a large amount of RAM to perform this function. However, in Comet 24.6.0, we have significantly reduced the RAM usage for Constellation Role, resulting in substantial speed and resource improvements. This means Constellation can prune larger amounts of data faster, and often more reliably.

This has a real benefit for our customers using Cloud Based storage, as removing unused data when it is no longer required is cost effective in the long run.

IP Rate Limiting Added to Comet Server Interface

To improve the usability of our IP rate limiting controls, we have added the ability to configure them in our Comet Server web interface. Previously this feature was only configureable via directly editing the config file of the Comet Server.

By configuring IP rate limits you can control the maximum bandwidth for IP addresses using regular expressions and set limits in bytes per second. Multiple rules can be defined, creating rate-limiting domains that match incoming requests. Rate limits apply separately to ingress and egress traffic, allowing simultaneous upload and download limits.

IP rate limiting can help maintain consistent performance and fair bandwidth usage across all users, and with our latest Comet release, it is even easier to configure.

Impossible Cloud Webinar

If you haven’t seen it, check out our recent blog post announcing our Impossible Cloud Integration as well as our joint webinar on Premier Cloud Storage & Backup for Europe’s MSPs on Wednesday, July 17th at 11am CET (Central European Time).

New Charging Model for Hyper-V and VMware Protected Items

You will notice that Hyper-V and VMware Guests will be charged daily per Protected Item from July.

This updated charging model can lead to a reduction in your overall bill. By charging per day per Protected Item, we align costs more closely with actual usage, potentially lowering your expenses.

We’re committed to continuously improving our services and look forward to delivering even more enhancements in the future. Thank you for your continued support!

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Comet
We are a team of dedicated professionals committed to developing reliable and secure backup solutions for MSP’s, Businesses and IT professionals. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, we understand the importance of having a reliable backup solution in place to protect your valuable data. That’s why we’ve developed a comprehensive suite of backup solutions that are easy to use, scalable and highly secure.

Threat Protection Pro: Everyday online threats in numbers

 

According to new research by NordVPN, adult content, free video hosting sites, and sites that impersonate well-known and reputable brands have the most security and privacy threats, such as malware, intrusive ads, and trackers.

According to new research by NordVPN, a leading cybersecurity company, adult content, free video hosting sites, and sites that impersonate well-known and reputable brands have the most security and privacy threats, such as malware, intrusive ads, and trackers.

In May alone, NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro feature blocked more than 5B intrusive ads, almost 40B trackers, and 60M malware infection attempts. With more than 50M malware-related incidents Americans are among the most affected among all Threat Protection Pro users globally. A thorough analysis of these suspended incidents revealed vital cybersecurity and privacy threats that users should be aware of and protect themselves.

“Every day, we face cyber threats without even noticing them. Even if we do not see malware or trackers with the naked eye or can handle the irritation caused by intrusive ads, it does not save us from severe privacy and cybersecurity issues. We should improve our knowledge and use trusted technology tools to avoid these threats. Most anti-malware features integrated into popular VPNs are usually limited to simple DNS filtering. NordVPN’s digital protection tool is now upgraded to Threat Protection Pro and helps users avoid hacking, tracking, phishing, scams, malware, and annoying ads and cookies,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN.

Malware hides in adult sites and deceptively misspelled Office365 links

Malware is malicious software: viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware designed to harm a user’s devices. It can steal sensitive data, encrypt important files, or even take over the devices, putting the criminal in complete control. The most common way users can get their devices infected with malware is by visiting malicious sites.

NordVPN research shows that from January 1 to May 31, Threat Protection Pro blocked more than 24M malicious links in adult content sites (or 8% from all blocked sites), as well as 16M links in uncategorized (5%), and 13M in web services (4%) sites.

Moreover, cybercriminals more often use deceptive misspellings of popular brands to trick victims into clicking phishing links and downloading infected files. As much as 99% of all phishing attacks use just 300 brands for deception. The most popular brands that users impersonated for spreading malware are Office365 (86K impersonated URLs discovered), Gazprom (60K), AT&T (28K), Facebook (19K), and Bet365 (15K)*.

“The brands themselves are not at fault — fakes like these also hurt their reputation, forcing companies to actively hunt them down. But high brand awareness can lull victims into a false sense of security and get them to lower their guard,” Warmenhoven says.

One device in The United States faces 89 malware attacks a month

The risk of getting infected with malware also varies by geographic region. These differences could be attributed to the varying levels of internet connectivity, economic development, and cybersecurity awareness in different countries.

NordVPN research showed that Threat Protection Pro blocked more than 50M attempts to infect American users’ devices during the research period. On average, one device owned by an American user is exposed to 89 malware-related incidents every month. In comparison, Ukraine is the most affected country, with 786 attempts to infect one device with malware per month.

Privacy-invading trackers reign in free video hosting websites

Web trackers are a broad category of privacy-invading tools that collect information on user activity. Trackers typically take the form of special scripts, browser cookies, or tracking pixels. Unfortunately, in the case of a data breach, the stored tracker data could end up falling into the hands of cybercriminals.

With this in mind, users should be highly attentive when using free video hosting (28% of all blocked trackers), online storage (13%), and search engines (13%), which, according to the research, are leaders in tracking user activities. Since January 1, Threat Protection Pro has blocked 39B trackers from free video hosting sites alone, while the online storage category is accountable for 18B trackers.

“Websites often share or sell data collected by trackers to third parties. But those who want to protect their privacy can use several tools to become less trackable. For example, VPN, which will change real IP address and virtual location, tracker blocker or privacy browsers”, says Warmenhoven.

Intrusive ads are not just annoying

Invasive and irrelevant ads popping up unexpectedly, blocking the host page, and opening new pages and windows are also the most common for free video hosting, adult content, and advertisement sites. Since the beginning of the year, Threat Protection Pro has detected and blocked billions of them: more than 2B, 1B, and 807M, respectively.

Moreover, intrusive ads are much more than just an annoying part of internet surfing; they are a matter of privacy and security. They can also infect users’ devices by linking to malicious sites, violate privacy by collecting data from web activity, and impact website loading speed.

How to stay safe from common cyber threats

To protect yourself from common cybersecurity threats like malware, trackers, and intrusive ads, Adrianus Warmenhoven advises to take these precautions:

  • Develop good cybersecurity habits. Cybercriminals prey on apathy, confusion, and ignorance, hoping that victims will forego due diligence. For example, most phishing attempts involve distorted names of popular brands.

  • Verify, download, scan, install. Malware executables may be disguised as or even hidden in legitimate files. Always verify the website you wish to download from, and always use anti-malware tools like Threat Protection Pro to inspect the files you download. This includes suspicious email attachments.

  • Be careful of where you go online. Certain web domain categories are much more likely to host malware that could compromise your device than others. If you visit websites that are likely to contain malware, pay attention to what you type, click, and download.

  • Let Threat Protection Pro keep you safe. Threat Protection Pro combines the best aspects of essential cybersecurity tools into one comprehensive security package. It will scan each file you download for malware, stop you from visiting malicious pages used for phishing, scams, and hosting malware, and block annoying ads.

Methodology: The statistics mentioned above were acquired by analyzing aggregated data gathered by NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro service from January 1 to May 31, 2024. NordVPN is not endorsed by, maintained, sponsored by, affiliated, or in any way associated with the owners of the mentioned brands. Brands are indicated solely for the purpose of accurately reporting information related to brands that were most likely to be impersonated for spreading malware*.

ABOUT NORDVPN

NordVPN is the world’s most advanced VPN service provider, used by millions of internet users worldwide. NordVPN provides double VPN encryption and Onion Over VPN and guarantees privacy with zero tracking. One of the key features of the product is Threat Protection, which blocks malicious websites, malware during downloads, trackers, and ads. The latest service by the Nord Security team is Saily — a new global eSIM. NordVPN is very user friendly, offers one of the best prices on the market, and has over 6,200 servers covering 111 countries worldwide. For more information: https://nordvpn.com.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Nord Security
Nord Security is a cybersecurity company known for its flagship product, NordVPN. The company is dedicated to providing online security and privacy solutions to individuals and businesses globally.

Cybersecurity in the EU: The NIS2 Directive

Navigating the evolving landscape of network and information security is a pivotal concern in the current era. As technology becomes more complex, the need for comprehensive policies and regulations to safeguard critical infrastructure and digital services becomes ever more apparent. One such initiative set to drastically alter the cyber landscape is the NIS2 Directive.

 

What is the NIS2 Directive for cybersecurity?

The NIS2 Directive, or Network and Information Security Directive 2, is EU-wide legislation on cybersecurity. It was introduced as a robust step forward to heighten the overall level of cybersecurity within the European Union. The NIS2 Directive came into force in 2023 with the goal to modernize the existing legal framework of the original NIS Directive that was introduced in 2016.

This update came in response to the escalated digitization and evolving threat landscape.

The NIS2 Directive expands its coverage beyond the initial realm. It extends the cybersecurity rules to new sectors and entities. It is designed to reinforce the resilience and incident response capacities of public and private entities. It achieves this by fostering Member States’ preparedness and promoting cooperation among them.

For instance, it mandates that Member States be suitably equipped. This includes a Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) and a competent national network and information systems (NIS) authority.

What are the main goals behind NIS2?

The NIS2 Directive’s primary objective is to promote robust cybersecurity across the EU. This includes safeguarding vital sectors from cyber threats and boosting trust in important services.

It does this by:

  • Establishing a standardized level of cybersecurity protection measures across all EU member states.

  • Clearly identifying and regulating the sectors affected by the directive.

  • Expanding cyber security measures and tightening incident reporting rules.

  • Improving the cooperation and coordination among member states in handling cyber threats.

The aim of NIS2 is to establish a standardized level of protection across all EU member states. It clearly identifies affected sectors and minimum security requirements and unifies reporting obligations. It also introduces enforcement measures and sanctions. These efforts aim to protect critical infrastructure and EU citizens from cyberattacks.

One major improvement of NIS2 over its predecessor NIS 1 is its specific scope. Sectors affected include manufacturing, food, courier services, space, and digital infrastructure. Medium and large organizations operating within these sectors fall under the NIS2 scope.

NIS2 distinguishes between “essential” and “important” entities. Both types must comply with the same security measures. However, “essential” entities are under proactive supervision.

Changes include strengthened security requirements, enhanced enforcement, stricter incident reporting, and improved cooperation. It has rules for risk management, cybersecurity training, crisis management, and data encryption. It aims to eliminate the flexibility that led to vulnerabilities under the original NIS.

Incident reporting now has new mandatory stricter timeframes, with an initial report required within 24 hours of a cybersecurity issue. This enables authorities to respond better to potential threats. Moreover, NIS2 fosters cooperation and communication between member states. It does this by establishing a European Cyber Crisis Liaison Organization Network. This makes network security a collective effort.

How does the NIS2 Directive impact business?

The NIS2 Directive’s wider scope brings a broader range of businesses under its ambit. It particularly affects those providing critical infrastructure within the EU.

As such, it’s crucial for these entities to understand what the directive entails. You may need to prepare for enhanced risk management and incident reporting requirements.

One of the key areas for businesses to address under the NIS2 Directive is the security of network and information systems.

To meet the requirements of the directive, businesses are expected to establish a robust cybersecurity-risk management program. This program should include technical and organizational measures including authentication, authorization, encryption, and consistent monitoring for the security of network, information systems, and APIs.

Key steps to building a comprehensive network and information security program might include:

  • Conducting a comprehensive cybersecurity risk assessment. This should help identify any risks posed to your network, information systems, and APIs.

  • Implementing appropriate measures to manage identified risks. Key measures might include authentication, authorization, encryption, and consistent monitoring of your network and information systems.

  • Developing robust incident reporting mechanisms. You should establish systems that can detect and report security incidents related to your network and information systems.

  • Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards. In addition to the NIS2 Directive, businesses should ensure they are compliant with other applicable regulations like the GDPR and other pertinent data protection laws.

  • Training and awareness. Finally, companies should educate their employees, contractors, and third-party providers about network and information system security practices. This could cover secure coding practices, secure deployment practices, and incident response procedures.

By focusing on these aspects, businesses can ensure that they are prepared for the NIS2 Directive. They can adequately protect their networks and systems from potential cyber threats. In addition, they will be better positioned to demonstrate their compliance to national cybersecurity authorities, thereby enhancing trust in their services or critical infrastructure.

Which sectors are affected by NIS2?

NIS2 Directive Affected Sectors

The NIS2 Directive expands its reach beyond the original NIS Directive, encompassing a broader range of sectors.

These include essential service operators in areas such as:

  • Energy

  • Transport

  • Banking

  • Healthcare

  • Digital service providers like online marketplaces, social networking platforms, and search engines

  • Research

  • ICT-Service management

  • Space

  • Entities providing domain name registration services

Businesses in these sectors must adhere to the regulations and requirements set forth by the NIS2 Directive.

When does NIS2 come into force?

The Member States have been given a window of 21 months until October 17, 2024, to transpose the measures outlined in the NIS2 Directive into national law.

The implication is clear: Businesses must prepare and adapt to the new network and information security landscape.

New Cybersecurity Directives – the CER Directive

Beyond the NIS2 Directive, another noteworthy legislation is the European Directive for Critical Entities Resilience (CER). The main difference between NIS2 and CER is that NIS2 is focused on cybersecurity, and CER is focused on physical security from natural disasters, floods, fires, etc.

The CER Directive replaces the European Critical Infrastructure Directive of 2008. It introduces stronger rules to enhance critical infrastructure against threats, including natural hazards, terrorist attacks, insider threats, and sabotage.

The CER Directive entered into force on January 16, 2023. Member States have until October 17, 2024, to transpose the requirements of the CER Directive into national law. By this date, each Member State is required to adopt and publish the measures necessary to comply with the directive. They must apply those measures from October 18, 2024.

Under the CER Directive, Member States must develop a strategy for enhancing the resilience of critical entities by January 17, 2026. This strategy aims to strengthen the ability of critical entities to prepare for, cope with, protect against, respond to, and recover from incidents that could disrupt the provision of essential services.

The CER Directive covers eleven sectors: energy, transport, banking, financial market infrastructures, health, drinking water, wastewater, digital infrastructure, public administration, space, and food. Member States are required to adopt a national strategy and conduct regular risk assessments.

The bottom line

The NIS2 Directive is poised to become a vital framework for cybersecurity in the EU. Businesses that fall under its scope must install rigorous technical, operational and organizational measures.

The deadline for national adoption of the directive is looming. Businesses must begin preparing to meet the NIS2 requirements.

In the context of the need for compliance with NIS2 regulations, NordPass offers valuable support as a password manager. Its features are designed to enhance your organization’s password security.

One key feature is the encrypted password vault. This securely stores all work-related passwords and information using the secure XChaCha20 encryption. NordPass’s zero-knowledge architecture ensures only authorized users can access the data.

NordPass also provides a password generator. It allows you to easily create strong and unique passwords that are resistant to guessing or brute-force attacks. The password health feature helps you assess the strength and security of your passwords. Identify any weaknesses or instances of password reuse that may put your accounts at risk.

Additionally, NordPass includes a data breach scanner. Automatically detect if any of your company’s domains or emails have been compromised in data breaches. This enables you to take immediate action to mitigate potential risks and protect your accounts. The password policy feature allows you to establish a robust password policy at the administrative level.

The activity log feature of NordPass provides transparency and accountability. This helps you maintain control over your company’s logins. Multi-factor authentication adds a layer of security, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

These features help businesses enhance their password security and compliance with NIS2 regulations. This helps contribute to a more secure and resilient digital environment.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

2024 Twingate competitors and alternatives

As cyber threats grow more advanced and frequent, protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure remote access are top priorities. Reports show that cyber-attacks are increasing in complexity and number, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down.

IT administrators face challenges such as budget constraints, the need for easy-to-use solutions, scalable systems, and reliable customer support. To address these issues, many companies offer solutions that replace or improve traditional VPNs with more secure options.

This article compares various remote access solutions, highlighting their features, strengths, and drawbacks, with a focus on ease of use, scalability, and customer satisfaction.

Disclaimer: This article is based on third-party reviews and open-source online information accessed between June 6 and 10, 2024. NordLayer is not responsible for data accuracy, as competitor information is subject to change. The competitor information was gathered through manual research, including feature comparisons and product analysis.

Twingate overview

Twingate is a remote access solution that focuses on a Zero Trust model. It allows organizations to secure access to private apps, sensitive data, and environments both on-premise and in the cloud. Twingate aims to replace traditional VPNs with a simpler and more secure alternative that fits today’s work-from-anywhere needs.

Twingate capabilities

  1. Provides Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) tools to authenticate every user and device before granting network access.

  2. Supports clients on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows.

  3. Connects up to 100 local networks, depending on the plan.

Strengths of Twingate

  1. Offers ease of use through a simple setup.

  2. Ensures security by providing encrypted user access.

  3. Provides flexibility by allowing detailed control over access management and network routes.

Limitations of Twingate

  1. Needs better organization and more features in the admin interface for improved usability.

  2. Offers a limited set of features and integrations that may not meet advanced needs.

  3. Lower plans lack support; only enterprise offers priority.

  4. Focuses on ZTNA; may not cover long-term, complex needs.

  5. Full tunnel support is still under development, which may limit functionality.

  6. Does not offer separate VPN subnets.

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Gartner, Capterra, and G2, along with user feedback from Reddit and TrustRadius, accessed on June 6, 2024.

Now, let’s look at Twingate alternatives.

1. NordLayer

Overview of NordLayer

NordLayer is a network protection tool developed by Nord Security, the creators of NordVPN. It helps businesses work safely and flexibly by using Secure Service Edge (SSE) and Zero-Trust frameworks. It integrates with Azure AD, Okta, Google Cloud, OneLogin, and Amazon AWS.

NordLayer capabilities

NordLayer secures network connections for businesses. It creates safe connections to the internet, company networks, and cloud resources, supporting compliance and flexible working.

  1. Zero Trust Network Access. Provides secure access by verifying each user and device.

  2. Secure internet access. Protects employees who travel by securing remote access through public Wi-Fi. It blocks threats, allows geo-specific content, and ensures privacy.

  3. Network and resource access management. Manages access to company resources, connects remote devices, and supports hybrid resources.

  4. Achieving compliance. Monitors VPN activity, manages user access and encrypts data from untrusted networks.

  5. Integration with identity providers. Works seamlessly with existing identity provider systems.

  6. Scalability. Supports unlimited users and adapts to different business needs.

Strengths of NordLayer

The NordLayer website states that the solution is easy to use, offers powerful security features, and works efficiently.

  1. Modern network security. Developed with NordVPN’s standards for today’s businesses.

  2. Easy integration. Installs quickly with existing systems without extra hardware, and scales easily.

  3. Robust SSE framework. Combines ZTNA, SWG, and FWaaS into a powerful cloud-native service.

  4. High server speeds. Provides strong connections with fast loading speeds, up to 1Gbps.

  5. Quantum-safe encryption. Uses AES-256 and Chacha20 technologies for top-level security.

  6. Seamless integration. Works with identity providers like Google Workspace, Okta, Entra ID (Azure AD), JumpCloud, and OneLogin.

  7. 24/7 support. Offers round-the-clock assistance and dedicated account management.

  8. Unique technologies. Includes NordLynx, browser extension, and Smart Remote Access for efficiency.

  9. Diverse VPN protocols. Supports OpenVPN (UDP & TCP) and NordLynx for various needs.

  10. Money-back guarantee. Offers a 14-day money-back promise.

NordLayer Gartner review

Uniqueness of NordLayer

NordLayer stands out with unique elements tailored to IT admins who prioritize ease of use and speed. Here’s what makes NordLayer different:

  1. Browser extension. Secures web access easily.

  2. NordLynx VPN protocol. Offers the fastest VPN protocol made by NordLayer.

  3. ThreatBlock. Blocks malicious websites and threats.

NordLayer Gartner review 2

Limitations of NordLayer

  1. Lacks API access for custom integrations.

  2. Does not integrate with SIEM solutions.

  3. Requires a minimum purchase of 5 licenses.

NordLayer provides a comprehensive remote access solution with secure access and flexible network management. It is a strong competitor among Twingate alternatives for securing a remote workforce.

NordLayer reviews

NordLayer receives positive reviews for its Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solutions, Secure Web Gateway (SWG), and Security Service Edge (SSE) capabilities like Cloud Firewall (FWaaS).

NordLayer is rated 4 out of 5 on TechRadar, 4.5 out of 5 on Gartner, which is the most authoritative source for technology reviews and insights, and 4.3 out of 5 on G2, a popular platform for user reviews and ratings of software products.

NordLayer reviews

NordLayer pricing

NordLayer offers several pricing plans. All plans support server speeds up to 1 Gbps, Shared Gateway locations in over 30 countries, and automatic user logout after a set time. Features like ThreatBlock,  Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Always On VPN, and Single Sign-On (SSO) are also available for all plans. You can choose from VPN protocols like NordLynx, OpenVPN (UDP), and OpenVPN (TCP). There is also a 60% discount for nonprofit organizations.

NordLayer requires at least 5 users per organization.

NordLayer pricing

2. Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81)

Overview of Harmony SASE

Harmony SASE aims to simplify secure network, cloud, and application access for today’s mobile workforce. Its mission is to transform traditional network security into a unified approach based on the SASE framework.

Harmony SASE capabilities

Harmony SASE provides a variety of capabilities that are important for modern network security and access.

  1. Easy setup and configuration

  2. Reliable customer support

  3. Solid performance and speed

  4. Comprehensive access auditing

Strengths of Harmony SASE

Customers value Harmony SASE for its user-friendly nature.

  1. Simple and adaptable solution

  2. Quick deployment

Limitations of Harmony SASE

Users have expressed concerns about various limitations of Harmony SASE.

  1. Premium feature availability

  2. Customer support data access

  3. Limited country options

  4. Higher cost

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information from VPN review sites such as Gartner, Capterra, and Cybernews, along with customer feedback on these platforms, accessed on June 10, 2024.

3. Tailscale

Overview of Tailscale

Tailscale is a modern VPN service that creates secure private networks using the open-source WireGuard protocol. It forms a distributed mesh network, allowing direct communication between devices.

Tailscale capabilities

Tailscale’s main feature is its mesh network, which allows direct communication between devices.

  1. Mesh network for direct communication between devices

  2. Lightweight encrypted connections created by WireGuard.

  3. Magic DNS provides easy-to-remember domain names for devices in the network.

  4. Access control lists (ACLs) centralize policy management

Strengths of Tailscale

Customers find Tailscale to be a user-friendly solution that offers several benefits.

  1. Ease of use

  2. Scalability

  3. Cost-effective options

Limitations of Tailscale

Users have expressed concerns about issues such as data safety and the Tailscale feature set.

  1. Privacy concerns arise because it logs certain device metadata and is based in Canada, a Five Eyes country.

  2. Limited global reach lacks a global network of servers for geo-unblocking content.

  3. Dependency on third-party authentication requires external identity providers for authentication.

  4. Lack of full VPN features includes missing features like public IP masking and comprehensive geo-unblocking.

Disclaimer: This review is based on information from the Tailscale website; VPN review sites such as Capterra, TechRadar, and vpnMentor; along with user feedback from Reddit, accessed on June 6, 2024.

Choosing the right solution depends on your company’s size and needs. Each Twingate competitor offers different features and capabilities. NordLayer, Harmony SASE, and Tailscale provide secure access for a remote workforce, supporting Zero-Trust Network Access and robust security policies.

Evaluating these Twingate alternatives will help your business ensure secure access, support zero-trust principles, and maintain strong security policies for your remote workforce. Check out the Decision Maker’s Kit, a free tool from the NordLayer team, which helps you build a strategy for selecting the best solution for your organization and guides you through the process from start to finish.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

The Origin of the Word “Wi-Fi”: A Dive into Tech Etymology

In today’s world, the term “Wi-Fi” is synonymous with wireless internet access. It’s a household name that has become an integral part of our daily lives, enabling seamless connectivity for our devices. However, the origin of WiFi and how it became a ubiquitous term are less well-known and shrouded in a mix of technical history and clever marketing. Let’s delve into the fascinating story behind the word “Wi-Fi.”


The Birth of Wireless Networking

The journey to “Wi-Fi” begins in the late 1990s, a period marked by rapid advancements in technology and the internet. Wireless networking was emerging as a revolutionary concept, promising to untether devices from wired connections and provide unprecedented mobility. The technology underpinning these wireless networks was based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

Despite its potential, the IEEE 802.11 standard lacked a catchy, consumer-friendly name that could resonate with the general public. This presented a significant marketing challenge. Enter the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA), later renamed the Wi-Fi Alliance, an industry group formed to promote and certify the interoperability of wireless local area network (WLAN) products.

 

 The Need for a Catchy Name

The Wi-Fi Alliance recognized the need for a brand that could easily communicate the benefits of wireless networking to consumers. To tackle this challenge, they enlisted the help of Interbrand, a global branding firm. The goal was to create a name that was short, memorable, and indicative of wireless connectivity.

Interbrand’s creative team coined the term “Wi-Fi,” a play on the term “Hi-Fi” (high fidelity), which was well-known in the audio industry for high-quality sound reproduction. By drawing a parallel to “Hi-Fi,” the term “Wi-Fi” suggested a high-quality, wireless experience. Contrary to popular belief, “Wi-Fi” does not stand for “Wireless Fidelity”; it’s simply a catchy, invented term designed to be reminiscent of “Hi-Fi.”

 

The Role of Branding and Marketing

To further solidify the brand, the Wi-Fi Alliance introduced a tagline: “The Standard for Wireless Fidelity.” This tagline was part of a marketing strategy to help consumers understand that Wi-Fi products adhered to strict compatibility and performance standards. Although the tagline implied a longer form for “Wi-Fi,” it was primarily a marketing construct rather than a literal expansion of the term.

The branding effort paid off. “Wi-Fi” quickly gained traction, becoming the de facto term for wireless networking. The simplicity and appeal of the name made it easier for consumers to adopt and remember, contributing significantly to the widespread acceptance and growth of wireless technology.

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Evolution and Impact

Since its inception, Wi-Fi has evolved dramatically. The technology has advanced through multiple generations, from 802.11b to 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) and beyond, each iteration offering faster speeds, greater capacity, and improved reliability. The term “Wi-Fi” has remained constant, a testament to the effectiveness of its branding and the pivotal role it plays in modern connectivity.

Today, Wi-Fi is an essential part of our digital infrastructure, enabling everything from home networks and public hotspots to enterprise solutions and the Internet of Things (IoT). The word “Wi-Fi” has transcended its origins to become a symbol of wireless freedom and connectivity.

 

Conclusion

The origin of the word “Wi-Fi” is a blend of technical innovation and strategic branding. Coined by a branding agency to market a complex technology, “Wi-Fi” has become a cornerstone of the modern digital experience. It’s a prime example of how a well-chosen name can capture the essence of a technology and help drive its adoption on a global scale. So next time you connect to a Wi-Fi network, you’ll know the story behind the name that keeps us all connected.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

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