Freescale QorIQ processors enable ODM solution priced at $100 for unified threat management appliances

RSA Conference 2011, SAN FRANCISCO, USA: Freescale Semiconductor has worked with systems designer Aewin and network connectivity provider Atheros to develop a unified threat management (UTM) design allowing networking equipment companies to source $100 (USD) original design manufacturer (ODM) solutions for the small/medium business (SMB) and branch office markets.

Powered by Freescale’s QorIQ P1010 processor, the design is intended to help equipment manufacturers create high-performance security products that offer hardware-accelerated security and intrusion prevention services (IPS) at price points previously serviced only by lower-performance, commodity processors.

The UTM solution was jointly developed by Freescale and leading ODM Aewin. It incorporates Atheros ETHOS Ethernet components to enable a low-cost security appliance that can deliver two gigabits per second of stateful firewall, and greater than 200 Mbps of IPS. The solution also integrates Freescale’s advanced VortiQa security application software.

“Working with Atheros and Aewin, Freescale can now offer OEMs a compelling advantage by introducing new security equipment that offers robust network protection at affordable prices for SMB and branch office markets,” said Nikolay Guenov, segment marketing manager for Freescale’s Networking Processor Division.

“As relentless security attacks targeting open network connections continue to take a toll on the productivity of small businesses, the need for hardware-accelerated UTM has never been greater. Our QorIQ technology portfolio is ideally suited for these system types, combining outstanding processor performance with multiple hardware accelerators and extremely low operating power.”

“Atheros delivers high-performance Ethernet solutions with the industry’s lowest power and latest security standards to move critical content seamlessly and securely,” said George Chu, vice president of Atheros’ Ethernet business. “By combining our ETHOS technology with Freescale QorIQ processors, the resulting solutions can address the security and energy efficiency needs of today’s small office environments.”

“Our OEM customers are challenged to expand the functionality of their existing VPN firewall appliances to meet growing market demand for optimal UTM functionality,” said Mario Tsui, vice president of Sales for Aewin. “Working with Freescale and Atheros, we are able help our customers meet this market demand by offering market-ready solutions that deliver cost-effective performance, quality and reliability.”