Abstract: A computerized device transmits an access request to a data communications device of a network in an attempt to access network resources within the network. The data communications device, in response and in real-time, transmits a challenge request to the computerized device that directs the computerized device to retrieve configuration, or posture, credentials associated with the computerized device. A policy server receives the challenge response and, based upon a real-time analysis of the posture credentials of the computerized device, determines a security state of the computerized device and either provides some level or denies the computerized device access to the network resources based upon the analysis of posture.

Abstract: When establishing a communications channel to a wireless network, through a wireless connection, a computerized device receives an Internet protocol (IP) address from a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server associated with the wireless network. The computerized device is configured with a table or list of IP addresses associated with wireless networks requiring a VPN or secure connection. The computerized device compares the IP address received from the DHCP server with the IP address entries of the table stored by the computerized device. If the computerized device detects a correspondence between the IP address received from the DHCP server and an IP address entry within the table, the computerized device automatically initiates a secure or VPN connection with the wireless network associated with the DHCP server.

Abstract: In a virtual private network, a plurality of concentrators form an interface to provide client/remote site access to a private network over a public network. The plurality of concentrators are grouped into a virtual cluster. Each concentrator in the virtual cluster has an IP address and the virtual cluster has a virtual IP address. In operation, one of the plurality of concentrators assumes the virtual IP address and acts as the master device in the cluster. When a client attempts a connection to the private network, the client addresses an initial request to the virtual IP address. The master device responds to the client request by transmitting to the client the IP address of a concentrator in the cluster selected to handle the connection.

Abstract: When establishing a communications channel to a wireless network, through a wireless connection, a computerized device receives an Internet protocol (IP) address from a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server associated with the wireless network. The computerized device is configured with a table or list of IP addresses associated with wireless networks requiring a VPN or secure connection. The computerized device compares the IP address received from the DHCP server with the IP address entries of the table stored by the computerized device. If the computerized device detects a correspondence between the IP address received from the DHCP server and an IP address entry within the table, the computerized device automatically initiates a secure or VPN connection with the wireless network associated with the DHCP server.