Barracuda Web Filter Firmware 6.0 with social media controls

Barracuda Systems launched Barracuda Web Filter Firmware 6.0, which brings support for more than 400 profiled programs beyond the traditional URL or domain filtration. For example, admins can allow individuals in the company to sign in to Facebook or Myspace to view and post up-dates while blocking access to games, files and other applications in order to protect their networks from malware and viruses.

This improved program engine is created on the current abilities of the Barracuda Web Filter designed to block programs at a wider level, including Skype, BitTorrent and YouTube for managing bandwidth utilization on office networks.

The Barracuda Web Filter’s Web Application Monitoring abilities comply with the Barracuda Message Archiver and allow the capture and storage of the chat, Web-based email and social networking interactions for the purpose of archiving, searching and fulfillment of e-Discovery requests.

Supported interactions on Facebook include wall posts, comments, messages and chat messages. Supported interactions on Twitter include tweets and direct messages. Other platforms supported by Web Application Monitoring include Yahoo! and Google.

Communication between the Barracuda Web Filter and the Barracuda Message Archiver uses standard SMTP protocols so information can flow easily even when the Barracuda Web Filter and the Barracuda Message Archiver are deployed indifferent locations on an organization’s network. Metadata about the social media interaction, including source IP, social media handle, and detected network user ID are also stored in the message for use in litigation.

As social media networks have embraced encryption of user sessions, the Barracuda Web Filter 6.0 can decrypt HTTPS traffic that is SSL encrypted when deployed in forward proxy mode. Transparent deployment of this enhanced SSLInspection feature requires deployment of a trusted root certificate on client Web browsers. This capability builds on the existing HTTPS filtering capabilities of the Barracuda Web Filter for inline deployments.

Upgrades to firmware release 6.0 are available immediately at no additional charge to Barracuda Web Filter customers on the current hardware platform with an active Energize Update subscription. Web Application Monitoring and Enhanced SSL Inspection are available for Barracuda Web Filter models 610 and higher. Barracuda Web Filter pricing in North America ranges from US$1,499 to US$89,999 depending on model, with no per user fees. International pricing and availability varies based on region.

Download Barracuda Web Filter Firmware 6.0 with social media controls here.