Cisco turns to Trend Micro for router security

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 18 February 2009 04:54

IT Industry - Market

Cisco has announced new security software that runs in selected SOHO routers. Dubbed Home Network Defender, the package incorporates code from security specialist Trend Micro.

Home Network Defender combines parental controls, blocking of fraudulent or compromised web sites, and anti-phishing.

Because the software runs in the router, it also protects devices such as Internet-enabled game consoles and handheld Wi-Fi devices such as iPhones.

The parental control features provide for full access for adult members of the household, with with progressively greater restrictions intended for 16-17 year olds, 13-15s, and under 13s.

Online access can be limited to particular times for each user, and there's also provision for custom content restrictions.

Having these functions handled by the router makes for easier ongoing management compared with security software that runs on individual PCs.

It also reduces the processing load on those computers - comprehensive security suites have a noticeable effect on the performance of older PCs.

Which routers can run Home Network Defender, and how much does it cost? See page 2.