This week several security vendors announced new and improved versions of their endpoint security products that involve a new level of sophistication and protection. The tools include the launch of SecureAnywhere from Webroot and new products from Symantec’s Norton division. Finally, Bitdefender has a new version of its free QuickScan online malware scanner here just for Windows PCs. The scan initiates right from your browser window.
Let’s start with SecureAnywhere, which is a new product line from Webroot and puts a small agent on any Windows desktop or server OS since XP, including both 32 and 64-bit and Windows running in VMs too. It provides cloud-based endpoint protection that doesn’t rely on signature updates, unlike earlier products from Webroot. It includes anti-malware scanning, a host-based firewall, cleanup of various system and registry files and the ability to quickly scan your desktop.
It is priced at between $16 to $35 per user per year, depending on volume licenses. While the first version is just for Windows, they are working on Mac versions for later in the year. You can get more information on SecureAnywhere here and see a typical screenshot below.
Norton is also moving in a similar direction with its cloud-based integrated endpoint security tool called Norton One. It offers protection across a broad spectrum of endpoints, including Windows, Macs and Android devices. A single subscription covers a wide range of Norton products, including both security and online backup. New to this family is an integrated service called Norton 360 to help you manage downloads, online backup and saved online passwords. You can see a sample screenshot below, and the 360 service will be available later this spring.
You can get more information on Norton One here. Pricing starts at $150 to cover up to five devices.
One trend that is clear from these announcements is that the main-line security vendors have to broaden their offerings to handle blended threats and more sophisticated attacks. They have begun to move away from pure signature-recognition scanning tools and towards more integrated protection methods.
