We found this product to be easy to deploy and configure. The initial setup takes only a few minutes and is guided by a wizard at first login to the appliance web-based interface. This wizard helps set up the network configuration as well as an initial policy. At the completion of the wizard, the appliance is pretty much ready to go and further configuration can be done via the intuitive web-based interface.
This interface also serves as the way to manage the appliance. The administrator can easily tweak and deploy new policies, as well as set up Active Directory integration for more granular control. There are also several other authentication options available, including IP address, eDirectory support, LDAP and RADIUS. As for a filtering capability, this tool comes loaded with a solid database that covers 96 different web categories for solid control over prohibited and allowed content.
Documentation included an easy-to-follow quick start sheet, as well as a full administrator guide built into the appliance interface. The guide covered basic management of the appliance through advance configuration of features. We found this guide to be easy to read with many screen shots and step-by-step instructions, as well as many configuration examples.
Astaro offers two subscription-based plans that include access to phone and email technical support, as well as free support through an online user forum. There is also an area on the website that includes documentation downloads, as well as other support resources, such as a knowledge base and instructional videos.
At a price just over $2,400 for up to 150 users, we find this product to be a good value for the money. The Astaro Security Gateway incorporates several solid features with easy management and granular control.