Sophos launches new Application Control features

Sophos announced the launch of new Application Control features that allow system administrators to selectively block unauthorised VoIP, P2P and IM applications that can present risks to company data and networks.

The new capabilities integrate seamlessly into Sophos Anti-Virus 6.0, providing users with a universal desktop client that addresses a diverse range of security and productivity challenges. Sophos’s latest offering comes in
response to security and efficiency concerns resulting from the uncontrolled adoption of VoIP, P2P and IM in the enterprise. A survey conducted earlier this month by Sophos reflects the serious concern that uncontrolled applications are causing system administrators. For example, 86.1 percent of respondents said they want the opportunity to block VoIP applications, with 62.8 percent indicating it is essential.

Sophos’s solution gives system administrators the power to selectively allow or block usage of applications by individuals or groups. As a result, they can implement flexible policies that reflect the diverse needs of groups across the enterprise.

Using Application Control, businesses can choose to block the following applications:

– File sharing: AudioGalaxy, Satellite, Ares, BitComet, BearShare, BitTornado, BitTorrent Mainline, eDonkey2000, eMule, FileTopia, Grokster, iMesh, Kazaa, MLDonkey, Morpheus, OverNet, Shareaza, ShareP2P, BitSpirit, Winny.
– Instant messaging: JAJC, ICQ, Gaim, AIM, Windows Live, Messenger, MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger.
– Voice over IP: Net2Phone, Google Talk, Skype.

Application Control is an optional feature of Sophos Anti-Virus, version 6, available to both new and existing customers. Existing customers of Sophos Anti-Virus for Windows 2000/XP/2003, version 6, can use this new feature at no additional charge. New customers have the option to deploy Sophos Anti-Virus either with or without Application Control.