On June 6, Microsoft released a beta version of its email security software – Antigen, with a full version expected to be launched next month following its acquisition of Sybari Software in June 2005.
Microsoft has added several features to Antigen, including a new web-based management core, enhanced clustering capabilities, and a new malware detection engine, all built on the technology used in the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool.
Antigen also integrates scanning engines from CA, Sophos, Kaspersky, and five other security companies. The product will be launched on July 1 and will include the following versions: Antigen for Exchange; Antigen for SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) Gateways; Antigen Spam Manager (also known as Antigen Enterprise Manager); and finally, Antigen Messaging Security Suite, which combines Exchange, SMTP, and Spam Manager products.
Regarding pricing, Antigen for Exchange will be priced at $10.50 per user (licensed for 250 users or less); Antigen Messaging Security Suite will cost $14.50 per user; and the Enterprise Manager will be available for $98 per server.
Users can download the trial versions of Antigen at the Microsoft website.
VH