Modern defense operations require more than just remote access—they need secure, resilient, and tightly controlled environments that can be quickly deployed. From headquarters to remote field locations, organizations require solutions that allow teams to access mission-critical systems without sacrificing security or performance.
Kasm Technologies and F5 have partnered to deliver a Zero Trust Virtual Desktop Access solution purpose-built for secure, high-performance, and enterprise-scale environments.
About the Partnership
This integrated solution brings together:
- Kasm Workspaces – is a leader in zero-trust workspace and containerized desktop infrastructure (CDI) solutions. We provide organizations with secure, browser-based access to desktops, applications, and development environments—on any device, over any network, anywhere in the world.
- F5 - is a global leader in multi-cloud application security and delivery. F5 enables organizations to deliver and secure extraordinary digital experiences by ensuring applications are always fast, available, and secure—anywhere they run. The F5 Application Delivery & Security Platform (ADSP) provides a unified architecture that integrates application delivery, API protection, orchestration, and threat prevention—enabling consistent security, availability, and performance across distributed environments.
Together, Kasm and F5 enable DoD organizations to securely deliver applications and data to distributed teams, whether in on-premises, hybrid, or air-gapped environments.
Key Benefits of the Joint Solution
1. Zero Trust Security for High-Security Operations
- F5 BIG-IP enforces ZTNA policies with SSL inspection, WAF, and identity-aware access controls—ensuring no implicit trust, even inside secured networks.
- Kasm workspace isolation ensures no lateral movement across systems, reducing the risk from insider threats or compromised endpoints.
2. Resilient Access in Disconnected, Intermittent, and Limited Environments
- F5 global load balancing and traffic steering keep services available despite infrastructure disruptions.
- Kasm’s containerized design allows rapid reconstitution of workspaces in contested or degraded networks.
3. Seamless Integration Across Platforms and Teams
- Seamless integration with DoD identity systems (including SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect) ensures compatibility with Active Directory, Keycloak, and other defense IdPs.
- Role-based access control allows differentiated permissions for coalition partners, contractors, and service members.
4. Scalable & Rapidly Deployable Architecture
- Kasm containers can be spun up in seconds to meet surge demand—supporting everything from a small tactical team to enterprise-wide VDI for thousands of users.
- F5 delivers policy-based routing, DDoS mitigation, and segmentation that align with DoD cybersecurity mandates.
Learn more about the partnership and joint solution.
Technical Integration in Action
Front-End Security & Load Balancing
- F5 Local Traffic Manager (LTM) and Application Security Manager (ASM) secure inbound connections, provide SSL offloading, and apply WAF policies before traffic reaches Kasm Workspaces.
- Intelligent routing and continuous health monitoring help ensure uninterrupted service delivery.
Identity Federation & Single Sign-On
- With F5 Access Policy Manager (APM) as a SAML identity provider, users authenticate using existing DoD credentials, eliminating redundant accounts and meeting CAC/PIV card requirements.
- Supports single sign-on (SSO) across multi-domain and coalition environments.
Support for Mixed Workloads
- Containerized browser-based Linux desktops for secure, isolated tasks.
- Connection brokering for RDP, VNC, and SSH sessions to legacy systems, applications, and operational technology.
Security Use Cases
- Joint Operations Centers – Provide a unified workspace platform for multi-branch collaboration without exposing core networks.
- Tactical Edge Deployments – Deliver secure desktops in forward-deployed or mobile command units.
- Cross-Enclave Solutions – Facilitate secure DLP-protected remote access across enclaves with separate administrative boundaries.
Learn how Kasm enables Government, Defense and Intelligence organizations.
Compliance & Accreditation Alignment
The Kasm–F5 solution is engineered to align with key U.S. Department of Defense cybersecurity and compliance requirements:
- Zero Trust Architecture – Implements the principles outlined in NIST SP 800-207 and DoD Zero Trust Reference Architecture.
- DISA STIG Compliance – Configurations can be hardened in accordance with relevant Security Technical Implementation Guides for both OS and application layers.
- Impact Level Hosting – Deployable in DoD Impact Level 5 (IL5) and IL6 environments for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), National Security Systems (NSS), and classified workloads.
- Identity & Access Management – Full integration with DoD PKI / CAC authentication, enabling secure federation across multiple security domains.
- RMF & ATO Support – Designed to support Risk Management Framework (RMF) controls and expedite Authority to Operate (ATO) processes for mission-critical deployments.
This compliance-ready posture ensures that the joint solution can be rapidly fielded while meeting the stringent security requirements of defense networks.
Mission Impact In today’s fast-moving, data-driven world, secure access to mission-critical systems is not optional—it’s a business and operational necessity. The Kasm–F5 Zero Trust Virtual Desktop Access solution gives organizations the agility, control, and protection they need to operate effectively across platforms, environments, and threat landscapes—while meeting the highest standards for compliance and security.
Contact us to learn how Kasm and F5 can support your next mission.
