Forefront Client Security Emerges

A public beta has appeared for Forefront Client Security, a new centrally managed security tool for businesses that protects Windows PCs and servers from malicious software, including rootkits, spyware, Trojan horses, viruses, and worms. Based on the same underlying technology used in Windows Live OneCare and Windows Defender, the product is nonetheless first generation, so to determine its overall value, customers will need to see if it has the necessary features to support centralized management, and if Microsoft chooses to license it in a manner that simplifies deployment.

Malicious Software Protection for Enterprises

Forefront is the brand name for a comprehensive suite of Microsoft security products for organizations. The products target desktops, laptops, and servers. Forefront Client Security protects individual devices (including servers, in spite of the “client” in its name), while other Forefront products handle other tasks, such as scanning e-mail for malicious content. All of the Forefront security products can be supplemented with interoperable third-party products to build a more comprehensive security solution.