Outlining the Need for the Forefront Edge Line for SharePoint Environments

A great deal of confusion exists about the role that the Forefront Edge line can play in a SharePoint environment. Much of that confusion stems from the misconception that Forefront TMG or Forefront UAG are only proxy server products. Both Forefront Edge products are, on the contrary, fully functional firewalls, VPN servers, web caching proxies, and application reverse-proxy solutions. In addition, the Forefront Edge line addresses specific business needs to provide a secured infrastructure and improve productivity through the proper application of its built-in functionality. Determining how these features can help to improve the security and productivity of a SharePoint environment is subsequently of key importance.

In addition to the built-in functionality available within the Forefront Edge line, a whole host of third-party integration solutions provide additional levels of security and functionality. Enhanced intrusion detection support, content filtering, web surfing restriction tools, and customized application filters all extend the capabilities of the Forefront Edge line and position it as a solution to a wide variety of security needs within organizations or many sizes.