Microsoft Forefront now in the clouds
Microsoft has extended its Forefront brand and is now putting messaging security into the cloud, the company said Wednesday.The new cloud-based messaging security product, which protects email from spam and malware, is called “Microsoft Forefront Online Security for Exchange.” In addition, the solution enables policy enforcement, and includes a real time reporting and a feature called message trace which will enable administrators to retrieve processed email.
Doug Leland, general manager of Microsoft's Identity and Security division told SCMagazineUS.com that with time, the company plans on bringing other software-based Forefront offering into the cloud, including its identity solutions, authentication and access control.
The move is part of a larger strategy Microsoft has implemented called “business ready security” aimed at enterprises business enablement and protection. The strategy was born out of conversations Leland had with customers to determine needs in the existing and emerging security space. During those conversations, customers expressed concerns about challenges of increased regulatory compliance pressures, a need for greater connectivity and collaboration, a greater need for protection and access and choices that help them stretch their lowering budgets, Leland said.
Cloud computing is slated to be a popular topic at this year's RSA Conference, with a number of sessions that address this industry trend.
