Cloud-based Small Business Internet Security Software

In the cloud is presently a popular phrase within the computer industry. Cloud-based services range from email and movie rentals to financial and other business-related services.

For years, internet security software suites have contained cloud-based elements. Their frequent, automatic updates are based on online databases that keep track of new malware as it's reported. Small business security software that is centrally managed often permits a network administrator to install software, establish security settings or conduct manual scans of all workstations within a system from one workstation.

However, some security services, such as the McAfee SaaS Endpoint Protection Suites, now offer a centralized, cloud-based administration console. McAfee offers a number of business security suites that are customized to meet the unique technical infrastructures of many small- to medium-sized businesses, such as security for workstations, file servers and email servers. But unique to McAfee and other similar services, the suites' cloud-based, centralized interface does not require any software installation. Instead, an administrator maintains McAfee's security suites using a web-based, secure account within the McAfee SecurityCenter.

Cloud-based administration consoles offer a different setup than traditional centralized terminals do, but they offer many of the same features. From the McAfee SecurityCenter, you can push software updates or manual scans of any workstation or server throughout your network without having to work with CDs or an FTP site. McAfee provides an installation link for each account, and you simply send a link via email to each of your employees. You can also push the software or perform a silent installation to a workstation.

McAfee's cloud-based system allows companies to provide up-to-date security software and software updates that are equipped to detect the latest threats. It also provides administrators with more access to the workstations of employees who work from home.

Like McAfee, security software providers all offer some cloud-based, software-as-a-service (SaaS) features. Most of the providers distribute software updates on a daily basis, and some as frequently as each hour. The updates are necessary to combat new threats as they are reported.

Malware threats throughout the world are more prevalent and more sophisticated than ever before. Hackers are no longer lone programmers in a basement somewhere. They are organized cyber-crime units out to make lots of money. Anti-virus protection is only one tool that must be part of any security software package today. Our frequent access to emails and the internet for all our business practices opens the door for threats such as spam, phishing and spyware, Trojans and adware.

Systems everywhere have had to become more secure in order to protect sensitive information and business processes. The systems that manage our security software have also become more secure. McAfee's ability to offer its cloud-based SaaS administration console is a demonstration of its secure environment.

When selecting an internet security provider, you should realize that you're not only purchasing software. You are establishing a relationship with a company that will protect your computer network, which is likely your company's most sensitive and valuable asset.

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