Panda Updates Cloud-Based Security Software -- THE Journal

Cybersecurity

Panda Updates Cloud-Based Security Software

By Dian Schaffhauser
01/03/12

A software company has released a free beta version of its cloud-based security application that includes protection against malware loaded onto external devices, such as USB flash drives. Version 6.0 of Panda Security's Panda Cloud Office Protection is a cloud-based service for protecting PCs, servers, and laptops. They can be managed remotely through a Web-based console.

The device control technologies within the new release allow the security administrator to control how computers will respond to external devices such as thumb drives, DVDs, and digital cameras: by denying access, forcing read-only access, or granting full access.

The new version resides on Windows Azure, Microsoft's enterprise-grade cloud services platform.

Panda Cloud Office Protection is intended to provide cloud-based endpoint protection of files, email, HTTP/FTP downloads, and instant messaging against viruses and other cyber threats. It handles updates automatically and includes a personal firewall that's centrally or locally managed. The administrator can use a Web console to resolve security issues and access malware audits and reports. Installation onto user devices can be handled through emails with download URLs; via distribution through login scripts, Active Directory, Tivoli, SMS, or Lan Desk; and locally, by having the user download an installer from the console.

The cloud based version of Panda's security software is currently in use by 160 schools for 11,000 computers in the Cheshire district in England, including 700 computers at Sir William Stanier Community School.

The beta of version 6.0 can be downloaded for free at the Panda Security Web site. The company said it will reward the most active beta users with Amazon coupons.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

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