Belden’s Multi-Port Industrial Firewalls Gain Added Flexibility and Security

Belden, a global manufacturer of signal transmission solutions for mission-critical applications, has updated its Hirschmann multi-port firewalls – the EAGLE20-0400 and EAGLE30-0402 – to offer additional flexibility of deployment, as well as state-of-the-art security functionality. With new router redundancy and wide area network (WAN) interface, the EAGLE family helps achieve maximum network availability and security in any industrial setting.

Through the newest enhancement – support for symmetrical high-speed digital subscriber line (SHDSL) connections – customers can now transmit network control and monitoring data over traditional copper telephone lines, in addition to Ethernet cabling.

“These devices are highly-scalable and they’re built-to-order from the factory, so our customers can select the various combination of ports they need to meet their network’s requirements,” said product manager Vinod Rana. “There are up to eight ports available, and you can select from Fast Ethernet, gigabit, and now, SHDSL ports.”

To support the enhancements on the EAGLE20-0400 and EAGLE30-0402, Belden has also introduced the next version of its operating software: the Hirschmann Security Operating System (HiSecOS) Version 1.2. This newest version of software heightens network performance and adds more robust security features for the EAGLE firewalls. Among other features, it now offers:

• Additional router redundancy protocols, specifically virtual router redundancy protocol (VRRP).
• Support for up to two SHDSL interfaces.
• Enhanced security, including intrusion protection and access control list (ACL)-based counters and filters.
• Small form-factor pluggable (SFP) support for gigabit twisted pair cables.

Due to its robust design and hardened casings, the Hirschmann EAGLE20/30 is able to operate in any industrial setting, particularly in the automotive sector. Their extended operating temperature range also makes them relevant for the oil and gas, food and beverage, water and wastewater and transportation industries.

“The primary advantage of the EAGLE is the number and type of ports available – a total of eight possible ports per device,” added Rana. “With the various port configuration options available, in some scenarios a single device can be deployed, which eliminates the need for multiple routers and significantly saves both space and costs.”