The Hindu Business Line : Symantec offers subscription-based online security

Often individuals are saddled with the task of managing a PC bombarded with junk mail and virus attacks. They find it difficult to fix the problem of managing spam and these virus threats come from unsuspecting sources.

While upgrading the system with the latest security software continues to be a big challenge for individuals, help is likely to come by online soon.

Symantec Corporation, the world's fourth largest software maker with revenues of $5 billion, is planning to unveil an online subscription-based software service that seeks to address this security concern.

Referred to as Norton 360, this software as service comes through a monthly subscription model, which the company is set to launch later this year initially in the US, and later in other countries.

Also referred to as `pay as you use service', this effectively enables a PC user to outsource the security-related management.

Preferable option

The Managing Director of Symantec, Mr Vishal Dhupar, said that "while enterprises have already begun to take to this approach, we expect this will become an important offering serving individuals."

While some PC buyers may prefer to invest in the software upfront, those who are familiar with this model would prefer this option.

The company that has made over six acquisitions over the last one year with Veritas being the biggest, is targeting revenues of $10 billion by 2010.