Our goal is to continue to build value into our bundled applications. We hope that you and your customers are as pleased with this change as we are. We want to help customers understand that the best way to consume Untangle is by installing a package – not just because of the significant cost savings, but also because our apps work together as an integrated solution.

Sunnyvale, CA, April 27, 2012 – Untangle, Inc., a network software and appliance company, today announced an update to its award-winning multi-functional firewall software. Application Control, introduced in Untangle 9.2, and IPsec VPN, introduced in Untangle 9.0, now come bundled in its Standard Package software and with the Standard Package option on its appliances. Previously only available as individual subscriptions or as part of the Premium Package, Application Control and IPsec VPN are now available to all current and future Standard Package subscribers at no additional cost.

About Application Control

Application Control protects organizations by allowing granular control of any unwanted or untrusted applications that could hinder productivity, reduce security, or present compliance violations. By analyzing the traffic running across the network, Application Control accurately identifies hundreds of today’s common applications such as social networking, peer-to-peer, instant messaging, video streaming, file sharing, enterprise applications, web 2.0 and much more.

About IPsec VPN

Untangle’s easy-to-configure IPsec VPN module allows for seamless integration with many popular third-party firewall products, enabling secure site-to-site connections between trusted networks. Features include support for all current encryption protocols, seamless integration with existing IPsec VPN networks and full-mesh tunnel support – all with no per-tunnel licensing.

About Standard Package

Untangle’s Standard Package includes the most popular applications trusted by thousands of organizations to protect millions of users. As Untangle’s value bundle, the Standard Package includes everything an organization needs to get started with a unified threat management solution. Customers requiring advanced web filtering, virus blocking and performance management capabilities usually choose the Untangle Premium Package, which includes every application Untangle offers.

Pricing and Availability

Standard Package software starts at $40 per month. uSeries Appliances with Standard Package start at $995. Both are available through Untangle’s website at http://www.untangle.com and through Authorized Untangle Resellers.

About Untangle

Untangle, a network software and appliance company, provides a new breed of multi-function firewall and Internet management applications that are optimized for the unique needs of smaller organizations. With a free multi-function firewall at its core and a suite of complementary Internet management applications, Untangle’s superior solutions are available at the lowest upfront cost and are easy-to-deploy and manage. Untangle’s proven network software solutions are installed in over 30,000 organizations, protecting more than 2 million people and their computers. With its try-before-you-buy approach, Untangle enables organizations to take control of their network within minutes and at no risk. Untangle is located in Sunnyvale, California. For more information, visit untangle.com or call (866) 233-2296.

PR Contact:
info(at)untangle(dot)com
Untangle, Inc.

Untangle® is a registered trademark of Untangle, Inc.

Sunnyvale, CA, March 07, 2012 – Untangle, Inc., a network software and appliance company, today announced the release of a new line of appliances carrying its award-winning multi-function firewall software. The Untangle uSeries Appliances are the easiest path to deployment for organizations seeking a comprehensive, flexible answer to content filtering, performance management and perimeter security. The uSeries offers a choice of Untangle Standard Package or Premium Package, the trusted software application bundles already at work on networks worldwide.

The uSeries at a glance:

• u10 and u50 are perfect for small organizations and branch or remote offices looking for a multi-function firewall with a small footprint. Thanks to their solid state drives (SSDs), they are nearly silent, which make them ideal for desktop deployment.
• u150 and u500 service medium businesses, enterprise divisions and campuses that need a robust, 1U rack mount device. They feature integrated LCD screens with system status information displays.

Securing over 30,000 networks and 2 million users worldwide, Untangle® offers best-in-class protection against the threats of viruses, spam, hackers and malware, alongside robust content filtering and application control – everything customers demand from a unified threat management (UTM) device. Untangle, however, also includes industry-leading performance enhancement capabilities with its Web Cache, Bandwidth Control, WAN Balancer and WAN Failover applications. Equally at home in small-to-medium organizations, campuses and remote offices, Untangle includes remote connection capabilities with its IPsec VPN and Captive Portal applications.

Availability and Pricing

All of these features are available for fast, plug-and-play deployment like never before. The uSeries Genuine Untangle Appliances are available online at untangle.com or through an authorized Untangle reseller. Prices start at $995.

Appliances are sold with an annual software license. Upgrade at any time from Standard to Premium at a pro-rated price. See untangle.com for details.

About Untangle

Untangle, a network software and appliance company, provides a new breed of multi-function firewall and Internet management applications that are optimized for the unique needs of smaller organizations. With a free multi-function firewall at its core and a suite of complementary Internet management applications, Untangle’s superior solutions are available at the lowest upfront cost and are easy-to-deploy and manage. Untangle’s proven network software solutions are installed in over 30,000 organizations, protecting more than 2 million people and their computers. With its try-before-you-buy approach, Untangle enables organizations to take control of their network within minutes and at no risk. Untangle is located in Sunnyvale, California. For more information, visit untangle.com or call (866) 233-2296.

PR Contact:
info(at)untangle(dot)com
Untangle, Inc.

Untangle® is a registered trademark of Untangle, Inc.

Because of your close relationship to Untangle, changes to our product line may impact you more than our average customer. As such, let be take a moment to give you the “Cliff’s Notes” on our new appliances.

Untangle has launched a line of appliances
These units are all bundled with either Standard or Premium packages, and only as annual subscriptions
The hardware is not available separately
All units contain premium features such as SSD’s
Blanket discounts of 10% for resellers and 20% for schools/non-profits are offered

You can get far more detail at on our blog.

The market has told us that we need an easier-to-install solution with simpler pricing and better value. The market has also told us that there is a big need for local support (that’s you). We have attempted to optimize against these goals.

Try one – we think you’ll love it.

Best of luck for continued success,

Bob Walters
CEO, Untangle

After running for years as a “pure” software company, we have just released a comprehensive line of branded appliances. These will supplement our large array of software products.

We think that the majority of present and future Untangle users will be delighted with this buying option. But, as with any big change, the move will also generate a raft of questions, speculation, and concern. In this post, I will try to describe our perceptions of our market, and the motivations that led us to create the offering. I’ll also touch on how we designed the product line, and offer suggestions about how to choose which Untangle options may be best for you.

Ultimately, we just want you to have the info that will allow you to make better decisions about how (or even whether) you engage with Untangle. Let’s get to it.

Why We’re Launching Appliances

While we have loved the role of “lone ranger” in the space and have made some nice waves doing it, we’re launching appliances because our marketplace demands it. The two key points are:

Broad Market Adoption

The vast majority (99%+) of networking software is currently consumed as appliances – from Linksys to Juniper. The numbers are staggering. This is simply the preferred mode of deployment. To catch this big wave, Untangle has tried a variety of OEM partnership approaches. These have achieved some success in slices of the market, but nothing at scale. There are various reasons for this, but they are covered under nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) so I can’t share them. We have concluded that we must participate in this broader market, we must do so directly.

Ease of Use

We believe that, once installed, Untangle is the easiest software to configure and use in its class. But for many prospective users, the installation process (i.e., “burn an ISO,” etc.) for our software is a bear. This type of user, which probably represents a majority of the “broad market” above, needs something as close to plug-and-play as possible. The appliance deployment model really helps here: (1) it eliminates the machine-install process entirely; and (2) by controlling the underlying environment (think Mac), software configuration is eased.

Design

Five key design elements drove our designs: simplicity, ease-of-use, completeness, performance, and the environment. Here are some of the ways that these design elements map to the “u” product line:

• You don’t have to think too hard (or work to hard) to choose your appliance solution. There are only 4 hardware configurations, each with only two software options. Prices are plainly published. There are no limits on number of users, just guidelines. And your box even comes preconfigured – it “knows” it’s for you and will log into Untangle accordingly.
• Long-time Untangle users will likely be shocked at the speed with which these boxes can be deployed. We have cut the deploy-time from power-up to in-network filtering from 34 minutes down to 6 minutes. (Yes, we used a stopwatch.) We have also reduced the number of user inputs required to configure the unit.
• We provide everything you’ll need right in the box, right down to the network cables (green, of course). We also provide an “emergency boot flash drive,” just in case.
• The WAN and LAN ports are color-keyed, and the software knows the color mapping.
• All appliances leverage industrial-strength solid-state drives (SSDs). Yeah, they cost a little more. But they are much faster, much quieter, run cooler, and are (for our use) just as reliable as spinning media.
• The U10 and U50 are whisper-quiet.
• The U150 and U500 sport LCD displays that instantly provide: CPU load, disk status, memory utilization, internal and external IP addresses, hostname, and UID.
• And the boxes just look cool…

Anyway, as you can probably tell, we’re proud of these designs and we are committed to making them even better over time.

Target* user

We think that the appliance form factor has value for any current or would-be Untangle user. The appliance is the easiest way to buy and deploy Untangle. And for many, it can also be the least expensive. But our downloadable software product line remains a vital and valuable part of our portfolio.

Here’s why you may favor our software solutions over our appliances:

• You have a successful Untangle instance already working

No need to consider an appliance until you outgrow or wear out your current hardware

• You only need the basic Untangle Lite application suite
  

  Lite is not available on the appliances

• You only need one or two paid Untangle applications

Appliances come bundled with packages, not a la carte apps

• You already own (or can cheaply buy) hardware that can host Untangle
  

  Our software would then be a less expensive option for you

• You are an Untangle Reseller and you create your own appliances
  

  Cool, use our software (even better rebranded)

So it really boils down to this: If you have access to decent hardware and the skill and inclination to install Untangle, our software is likely your best choice. For all other customers, we recommend our appliances.

Pricing

Make the product attractive in the broader market in which it will compete.

So we did some comparative pricing analysis. Of course, the first thing that we found was that nobody publishes prices (for shame). Then, when we dug up the prices, everybody packages and prices differently. Many vendors need multiple boxes to do the same thing we do (for shame). But we muddled through. Net is that we think our prices (TCO) are in the bottom third of the market. Not the bottom – about the 30%th percentile. This is for apples-apples functionality.

Keep it simple.

Only four models. A choice of one of two software loads. A single subscription term (annual). No hard user limits. Easy annual renewal terms, with nice discounting. Nothing hidden.

Make it consistent

We have retained discounts for our resellers and schools (and nonprofits).

Miscellaneous

Here’s a mini-FAQ where I’ll try to cover some topics not otherwise addressed:

I’m an existing Untangle user and I “bleed green” – but what’s in it for me?
The majority of the software innovations that we have done for the appliances, especially around the installer script, have been incorporated into 9.2. And we’ve given you a great way to deploy Untangle when and if your current hardware no longer suits. Perhaps more importantly, some of the simplifications in pricing structure that we use for the appliances will likely migrate into our software line. (No, I can’t say more yet.)

You say there are no limits on number of users. What’s to keep me from buying a U50 and using it in my 2000-user school?
Nothing. Except your users. Their internet connection will be sloooooow. And your sanity. You’ll be doing a lot of triage and administration. Better to just treat the numbers on the box as a rough guideline and go from there. If you happen to buy the wrong box, don’t fret. Call us and we’ll work something out to get you into the right one. Better that than angry users (and bosses?) and loss of sanity.

Why are these things so expensive?
First off, they’re not. ;-)  For non-commodity goods, pricing is really subjective. But I will say that the things that exerted upward pressure on pricing included: premium well-supported hardware (all Intel inside), SSDs, nice packaging, and a desire for consistency with our current pricing schedule. The hardware itself is sold “cost-plus” to you – we do not attempt to make a profit from it.

This pricing throws everything off – why are they so cheap?
Ditto re subjectivity. We had to make them price-competitive. We do not make a profit from the hardware. Other than Support, there are no services per se. The software load itself is priced at a slight discount, mainly in renewals. But this makes sense to us because we think that the average lifetime of these appliances will exceed that of our typical software installs.

You have tightly bundled the software and hardware. What if I only have 40 users but want the u150 box (love that LCD)?
Yep, guilty. We favored simplicity in our packaging/pricing over flexibility, and most of our competitors do the opposite. We had good reason for that, but it doesn’t help you. The first thing that I would suggest is to check out partner solutions. Maybe one of our resellers has something just right for you. The second thing – which I’ll offer as general advice to anyone with any questions – is to contact our Customer Support or Sales folks. If something can be figured out, they’ll do it.

Can I get one in Germany/France/India/Singapore/… ?
Not from us, at least not yet. We want to make sure that our supply chain is working perfectly in North America, then we’ll branch out. In the meantime, maybe you can work with one of our resellers to get what you need?

I love the concept. How quickly can I get one?
Generally speaking, our appliances ship within 48 hours – some more quickly. We will keep about one month of component inventory, and build a week ahead of demand. We will also keep replacement inventory on hand in the event that a unit must be replaced (under warranty, of course).

Finally

So this is how we “gave birth” to our new appliance line. We’ve been working on them nonstop for 4 months. We certainly hope you like our new babies!

— Bob

* As a (former) Marine, I love that term – targets!

SUNNYVALE, Calif., February 15, 2012 – Untangle, Inc., a network software and appliance company, today announced the release of Untangle® 9.2 featuring Application Control, the latest addition to its multi-function firewall software. Application Control protects organizations by allowing granular control of any unwanted or untrusted applications that could hinder productivity, reduce security, or present compliance violations.

Application Control analyzes the traffic running across the network, accurately identifying hundreds of today’s common applications such as social networking, peer-to-peer, instant messaging, video streaming, file sharing, enterprise applications, web 2.0 and much more.

“Our customers have been asking for a more precise

approach to filtering that enables them to control even the most elusive applications and protocols. Application Control exceeds that requirement,” said Amy Abatangle, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “For example, Application Control can allow users to visit Facebook, but block games or video. This enables organizations to access Facebook for corporate marketing functions while minimizing productivity and bandwidth drains from entertainment features.” Riskier protocols or applications, like BitTorrent, Pando and Usenet, that not only present a bandwidth drain but could carry a malware load, can be kept off the network altogether.

The ability to control applications and protocols, while powerful, is not unique to Untangle. What Untangle brings to the market is unprecedented ease-of-use and a fully integrated filter control system in its industry-leading Integrated Rules Engine (IRE).

For most common cases and protocols, network administrators can simply click to allow, block or flag applications. Application Control does the rest, keeping the undesired traffic from flowing in or out of the network. For a greater degree of control, administrators can create custom rules in the IRE, which target more complex traffic patterns.

The IRE allows Application Control to work in concert with other aspects of the multi-function firewall suite to enable rule-based blocking of the most challenging traffic types. In fact, this integrated approach is the only known way to control protocol-agile applications like the Ultrasurf proxy. Untangle users can think about the IRE as a voting expert system that accepts inputs from all Untangle filters and then meters out blended control responses based on threat type and policy.

Untangle’s aggressive pricing, flexible deployment options, trial downloads and online store make it easier than ever for organizations of any size to benefit from enterprise-grade security and filtering.

Availability & Pricing

• Application Control is available starting at $25 per month.
• Untangle® Premium Package includes Application Control and begins at $50 per month.
• All current Untangle® Premium Package and Untangle® Education Premium Package customers will receive Application Control at no additional charge.
• Untangle’s Protocol Control application is now called Application Control Lite and continues to be offered free of charge.

About Untangle

Untangle, a network software and appliance company, provides a new breed of multi-function firewall and Internet management applications that are optimized for the unique needs of smaller organizations. With a free multi-function firewall at its core and a suite of complementary Internet management applications, Untangle’s superior solutions are available at the lowest upfront cost and are easy-to-deploy and manage. Untangle’s proven network software solutions are installed in over 30,000 organizations, protecting more than 2 million people and their computers. With its try-before-you-buy approach, Untangle enables organizations to take control of their network within minutes and at no risk. Untangle is located in Sunnyvale, California. For more information, visit untangle.com or call (866) 233-2296.

PR Contact:
info@untangle.com
Untangle, Inc.

Untangle® is a registered trademark of Untangle, Inc.

• Promote and distribute Untangle products, including informing end-users about the products, and provide support to end-users with Untangle deployments.
• Purchase and maintain an annual subscription to the Untangle Partner Bundle NFR demo subscription.
• Provide “first line” support to your end-users for Untangle deployments.
• Remain compliant with Untangle standard usage guidelines for Untangle partner badges. The badges are provided expressly for partners; partners are not authorized to use the Untangle logo or trade name on their website, in their marketing materials or as their domain name.
• Partner agrees to notify Untangle in writing of any legal claim involving a product that comes to your attention.
• Partner needs to maintain a public-facing website that indicates that you provide IT consulting or related services.

Authorized MSP or Authorized Reseller

• 25% discount on software purchases
• Access to the Partner Portal
• Listing on Untangle’s Find-a-Partner page

Select

• 30% discount on software purchases
• Access to the Partner Portal
• Listing on Untangle’s Find-a-Partner page

Must maintain an active NFR and at least $3000 in active subscription revenue.

Star

• 35% discount on software purchases
• Access to the Partner Portal
• Listing on Untangle’s Find-a-Partner page

Thursday, Jan 20, 2011 – Untangle 14-Day Trial: The Puppy Dog Sales Method

Thursday, Jan 13, 2011 – Premium Package: your best choice

Thursday, Dec 16, 2010 – Troubleshooting 101

Thursday, Dec 9, 2010 – Untangle Store Tips and Tricks

Thursday, November 18, 2010 – Untangle Bandwidth Control

Thursday, November 11, 2010 – Untangle Web Filter

Thursday, October 21, 2010 – Untangle WAN Balancer & Failover

Thursday, October 14, 2010 – Untangle OpenVPN

Thursday, September 16, 2010 – Untangle Policy Manager

Thursday, September 9, 2010 – Untangle Overview

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