A new online trading environment has been launched by OmniLink and The Internet Solution (IS). Called the GoZone, it leverages off the OmniLink virtual private network (VPN), and offers Internet access through IS.
GoZone GM Janice Kallmeyer explains that by existing within a demilitarised zone (DMZ) on a quality-of-service VPN infrastructure, the GoZone provides a secure bridging platform between a company`s intranet, the public Internet and extranet connection to its trading partners.
"This is essential in today`s e-business environment," she says. "Real e-business extends beyond e-commerce parameters. E-business is an innovative environment where existing business processes are transformed across extended trading communities in an online environment which manages CRM [customer relationship management], sales forecasts, Web-enabled office support systems and can be deployed through an entire industry`s supply chain.
"In this scenario, data has to move seamlessly over open and closed networks which bring together previously separate groups inside and outside companies," she adds.
Kallmeyer says the GoZone is such a VPN-based extranet, overcoming the limitations of the public Internet by acting as a "private Internet" while simultaneously providing controlled access to the greater World Wide Web. It can be accessed via corporate networks that are housed on the VPN, via a dial-up connection for remote users, or from the Internet through a secure firewall.
"The GoZone is ideally placed for the innovative environment of e-business. It is an enterprise portal enabling corporates to connect to one another and to gain access to information services, execute transactions and use core business applications.
"It offers a secure business gateway for corporates to access information electronically and conduct business and effect transactions across a shared and trusted network in a secure extranet. It also provides a business onramp for corporates to access hosted core business applications, services or unique information sources which will allow them to differentiate themselves from their competitors."
Apart from allowing companies to conduct inter- and extra-corporate business, the GoZone also offers services such as hosting, Internet connectivity, and mail, newsgroup and chat facilities.
"No individual or GoZone client can access that profiled front-end or its underlying content without going through the approved logon procedure. Any shared connection occurs only at the express request of both parties. These shared connections are controlled by the security technology deployed in the DMZ to ensure adherence to security policies, audit logs and intrusion detection.
"The GoZone creates an online destination in a secure environment for business people wanting access to business applications such as tax and CRM, and relevant business content. The portal makes it easy for employees and customers to access information and utilise the tools most important to their work. It also allows companies to conduct inter-corporate business or develop online working groups."
GoZone has formulated partnerships with third-party content providers, selected for the quality and relevance of their offerings to business people. Corporate GoZone users can choose the business-relevant content they want to see and can be connected to additional, company-specific content at their specific request.
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