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Cisco strengthens network security products

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CIOL Bureau
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NEW YORK: Communications equipment maker Cisco Systems Inc. on Monday said it had upgraded and launched new security products to protect businesses from hackers, viruses and other online threats.

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Cisco said it updated one of its security hardware products, as well as software in its business router product line, which helps direct Internet traffic, to guard against virus-laden spam e-mails, spyware and other malicious software.

The products are designed to compete with offerings by Cisco's main rival Juniper Networks, as well as smaller companies, such as F5 Networks Inc., said Stephen Kamman, an analyst at CIBC World Markets.

"It's an emerging market that's been exploited by smaller-sized companies until now," Kamman said. "When a market gets to a certain size, Cisco gets interested."

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The upgrades are aimed at companies with remote branches or with off-site employees, allowing staff to hook into corporate networks while on business trips or from their homes.

Hackers have often been able to take advantage of security holes in business networks, making it harder for companies to allow employees remote access.

The San Jose, California-based company also released its Security Manager software, which is designed to make it easier for business technology employees to administer security functions on their networks.

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The moves are part of Cisco's increasing focus on the business of Internet security, which analysts said is already worth billions of dollars.

"What they're basically doing is taking the $8-$10 billion router and switch market and making it security-savvy," said Rob Whiteley, an analyst with Forrester Research. "So often we find technology in search of a problem, but that's not the case here. Cisco is responding to market demand."

Cisco and other technology companies are gathering this week for the RSA security conference in San Jose.

Cisco shares closed down 21 cents, or 1.06 percent, to $19.55 on Nasdaq.

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