Trend Micro Inc. (Nasdaq:TMIC), a leading provider of Internet content security, announced today that its family of desktop, network, and Internet gateway virus protection and content security products have been selected for the world's premiere satellite-based antivirus updating service.

Ian Melamed Secure Computing, South Africa's leading antivirus and information security company, is offering Trend Micro's suite of antivirus products as part of its satellite-based software update delivery system. Launched on March 1, 2000, this solution combines satellite hardware and Trend Micro's software with Ian Melamed's expertise as a security service provider. Clients using Melamed's service will be able to broadcast Trend Micro's pattern file updates, scan engine updates, and software version upgrades directly to mobile PCs, desktops, and servers within their organization.

"Few companies have formulated effective and comprehensive antivirus policies," commented Ian Melamed, whose work in the antiviral space has made him South Africa's leading spokesperson and provider of solutions and data recovery services. "Even where they have policies, these are typically not executed properly because of lack of in-house expertise. This is where we, and companies like Trend Micro who have expertise in the area of providing antivirus protection services come in, to provide peace of mind to our clients."

Due to the rapid proliferation of viruses, continual antivirus software updates are required to keep companies and individuals shielded against the latest forms of malicious code. Unlike traditional update methods, which require users to be connected to a network, and for administrators to physically update the antivirus software See antivirus program., satellite-borne updating can be performed remotely, quickly, and simultaneously to multiple users. A single satellite can broadcast large files directly to a satellite card installed in a PC or file server, virtually anywhere in the world. This overcomes geographical limitations and the lack of communication land-lines, and takes a fraction of the time it would take to download data over the Internet.

"Trend Micro's products have always focused on innovation and ease-of-use," said Eva Chen, chief technology officer at Trend Micro. "Our ActiveUpdate technology already gives administrators the ability to update their networks over the Internet. Melamed's strategy of satellite technology will enhance the speed and accuracy at which these users can get updates to their clients."