IBM Helps Smaller Companies Protect Their Computer Networks

IBM Helps Smaller Companies Protect Their Computer Networks

IBM today announced a new managed service targeted at helping businesses with fewer than 500 employees protect their computer networks. IBM Express Managed Security Services for Firewall and VPN is designed to implement a security-enhanced firewall and enable clients to connect multiple locations and remote users using the latest Virtual Private Network (VPN) technology.

The service includes an onsite hardware appliance that can be managed remotely by IBM, making the IBM Express Managed Security Services for Firewall and VPN one of the most simple, easy-to-use firewall and VPN solutions on the market. Virtually no IT skills are required for setup, which can take less than 15 minutes, and clients can feel comfortable that their networks have the latest updates, which are made remotely and automatically by IBM.

Small businesses are prone to the same security threats as larger companies, but they often lack the large IT budgets or trained technical staff to set up identity management systems. As a result, managed service solutions are a fast growing part of the market. In fact, according to Business Insights, managed security services are projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27% to a total of over $2.8 billion by 2008.

“Our new Express Firewall and VPN service expands IBM’s small and medium business managed services portfolio, addressing customers’ top concern — security,” states Michael Riegel, Director of IBM Express Managed Services. “The service was specifically designed and developed to provide high-growth enterprises with ease of use, and 24×7 support,” adds Riegel.

Read the complete Press Release