Cisco offering computing cloud protection

Cisco on Tuesday unveiled tools to harden computer network defenses of businesses that use software applications as services on the Internet.

The California firm that specializes in switches and routers announced its expanded offerings at a major RSA computer security conference where hot topics include staying safe "in the cloud."

Using applications hosted online -- akin to renting instead of owning software -- is a growing trend referred to as "cloud computing" or "software-as-a-service."

As data and transactions are increasingly shifted online and mobile devices are relied on to access the Internet, attention is being focused to thwarting hackers or cyber-crooks intent on capitalizing on vulnerabilities.

"In today's changing world, businesses require a security strategy that accounts for the physical, virtual, mobile and global aspects of their business," said Cisco security technology unit general manager Tom Gillis.

"Security needs to capture the latest threat intelligence to mitigate shifting threats."

Cisco said that its Security Cloud Services bolster online defenses by providing Internet filters and merging capabilities of business computer networks and software.

Cisco bills its new-generation IPS Sensor Software as a potent defense against malicious attacks.

"In today's networked world, threats are rapidly growing in number and sophistication," said Dustin Cornelius, a computer systems analyst at a public utility firm in the Southern United States.

"With the new offerings announced today, we are glad to see Cisco adapt its security solutions to address the evolving threats and help protect our business."

(c) 2009 AFP