Open Source Managed Security For SMBs

December 18th, 2006: Open source security firm Untangle has ushered in a new dawn with a new name, new executive team, new funding and new free security services for SMBs.

Previously Metavize, Untangle has found a new identity to push its Linux-based appliance and 12 open source security offerings which include a spam blocker, web content control, remote access portal, VPN, virus blocker and intrusion prevention system.

Untangle says that its software bundle provides enterprise-level protection that has been designed with ease of set up and use in mind to make it small businesses friendly.

“Adoption of spam blocking and web content filtering among small businesses is as low as 25 percent, according to some surveys,” said Bob Walters, CEO & President of Untangle. “Two main factors appear to be driving this low adoption rate: the existing solutions are not tailored to small business needs and they are too complex.  But there is also a general lack of awareness.”

Untangle is offering its services free to businesses with less than 11 employees in the hope that it will generate interest for its other managed security services. Prices for larger businesses range from US$75 per month for 11 to 30 users, or a flat US$195 per month for more than 31 users. The appliance costs US$895.

The software is available for download, on a CD or pre-installed on the company’s server appliance.

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