Lesson 3 already mentioned that AIMdefense can be operated in two ways. This lesson explains both paths in detail and shows what actually decides between them in practice.
The hardware path: AIMSTRONG
The first path is running AIMdefense on AIMSTRONG hardware. AIMSTRONG offers six size classes for this, from XS to XXL, for different site sizes and requirements. This lesson deliberately does not name a fixed mapping between a size class and a specific model, because the lineup keeps evolving.
Every device is tested before shipping, with a burn-in procedure and a 48-hour endurance test. For the hardware, the claim of origin is "Assembled in Germany". The hardware path also includes the Advanced Replacement Service, which, depending on the support package, allows hardware to be replaced for up to five years.
The software path: virtual appliance
The second path is running AIMdefense as a virtual appliance on a company's own virtualization. Here AIMdefense runs as software on existing server hardware, without the need to buy a dedicated box. For the software, the claim of origin is "Software development in Germany".
What decides the choice in practice
Three questions help decide between the two paths.
- Existing virtualization: if a company already runs its own virtualization environment, that speaks in favor of the virtual appliance.
- Site size: a small site without its own server infrastructure tends to benefit from a ready-made box.
- Desire for a hardware warranty: anyone who wants a fixed hardware warranty with a replacement service finds it through the AIMSTRONG path.
Both paths deliver the same software with the same functions. The decision is therefore not a security question, it is an operational question.
Key point: "Assembled in Germany" applies to the hardware. "Software development in Germany" applies to the software.
Key point: AIMSTRONG is an open platform. Pairing it with AIMdefense is a recommendation, not a technical requirement. There is no lock-in.
Why this matters for AIMdefense
Whichever path is chosen, the functions from lessons 4 and 5 stay identical. The difference lies purely in the operating model.