Gateway Inc. stepped up its fight today against hackers, spammers, and viruses with an expanded version of its on-site security services for small office/home office (SOHO) users seeking defense against unwanted, profane Web content, disgruntled employees and data theft.
If it sounds like an opportunity for San Diego, Calif.-based Gateway to sell users more software, hardware, and gadgetry, well, maybe, but according to Gateway, it’s all in the name of network security and giving customers peace of mind.
The two-step customized Gateway Security Audit is aimed at eradicating system loopholes and securing personal and business content for SOHO users, particularly with the boom in broadband use and the increased ease with which system break-ins and robberies can occur.
According to Luc Lambert, vice president of services for Gateway, being connected to a high speed Internet connection without protection is like “a house with an open door. Hackers don’t even need to break in, they just simply walk through the door like an invited guest.”
The first step in Gateway’s homeland security program is an on-site network assessment performed by a Gateway technician to determine what potential security threats exist and what solutions Gateway can provide.
At the customer’s request, the technician can develop a security proposal that might include installation of a firewall, virus detection software, network security options, remote access, password protection, data back up and data recovery software. Or the customer can opt for a pre-packaged Cyber:)Ware PC Security Package that includes all the fixings for SOHO security: a step-by-step security guide, Norton Internet Security 2002 suite, Norton AntiVirus, Norton Personal Firewall, Norton Privacy Control, and a 30-minute calling card to contact Gateway tech support for additional questions.
“Many small businesses think hackers only target large networks or prominent corporations, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” said Lambert. “Businesses of all sizes need to worry about disgruntled or former employees trying to access their network or wreak havoc or access information for financial gain. Plus, viruses posing as legitimate email attachments can spread across the U.S. in a matter of hours with devastating effects.”
Gateway’s Security Audit is free to SOHO users installing first-time 910, 930, or 935 Gateway servers.