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Information Security Solutions on a Budget

From hardware and software to services, here's a list of information security solutions at various price points.

 

Find information security solutions at three different price levels:

 

 

 

 

BUDGET

Here is a list of information security solutions that start at less than $30:

 

 

AVG 8.5 Free

AVG Technologies

Free

 

This free version of the company’s security software provides basic anti-virus and anti-spyware protection for Windows PCs. It warns users against entering malicious Web pages, and its LinkScanner Search Shield offers updated security ratings for sites listed in search results. Step-up, fee-based products include AVG Anti-Virus Pro and AVG Internet Security.

 

 

MozyHome Free

Decho Corp.

Free

 

This free service provides up to 2GB of online data storage. Users can set their account so files are automatically backed up at scheduled intervals. The service finds and saves only those files changed since the last back-up. Files are encrypted to protect data against hackers. Fee-based service for unlimited data storage starts at $4.95/month.

 

 

Trend Micro Mobile Security 5.1

Trend Micro

$29.95

 

Available in versions for smartphones running the Windows Mobile and Symbian operating systems, this suite protects the phone and data against all types of malware when connecting to the Web. It includes a software firewall, data encryption, and requires user authentication to gain access to files.

 

 

JumpDrive Secure II Plus 

Lexar Media

$17.99 for 2 GB version

 

The USB flash drive comes pre-loaded with security software to protect data. Users create “Encrypted Vaults” where files are automatically encrypted, and can only be accessed with a user-defined password. A file-shredder feature ensures files are completely deleted from the drive and cannot be recovered. Higher capacity versions available.

 

 

 

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MID-RANGE

Here are information security solutions that range from $30 to $75:

 

 

Kaspersky Security for Ultra Portable PCs 

Kaspersky Lab

$39.95

 

Developed specifically for netbooks, this suite sets up a firewall to protect against malware. It includes ant-virus, anti-spyware, anti-spam, and anti-adware tools, and will scan files, e-mail, and instant messages for potential threats. Currently available for netbooks running versions of the Windows XP operating system.

 

 

USB Biometric Fingerprint Reader

Dell Computer

$41.99

 

This security accessory uses biometric fingerprint authentication to protect computers against unauthorized access. It plugs into a USB port and features a swipe reader to verify the fingerprint of authorized users. The reader can be set to recognize up to a total of 21 fingerprints from five different people. Compatible with Windows PCs.

 

 

PF 12.1 W Notebook Privacy Filter

3M

$47.60

 

One product in 3M’s line of privacy filters, this version fits 12.1-inch notebooks with widescreen displays. It features 3M’s microlouver privacy technology so only persons seated directly in front of the screen can read data. Others see a completely black screen. It also protects the screen against damage, and can reduce screen glare in bright settings.

 

 

LapTop Cop 

Awareness Technologies

$49.95/year for one computer

 

This computer recovery software has a geo-location feature that maps the computer’s location whenever it connects to the Internet. The software also gives the laptop owner remote access and control of the computer and its contents to retrieve or delete files and monitor all activity on the machine.

 

        

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DELUXE

Here are information security products and solutions that cost more than $75:

 

 

BitDefender Total Security 2009

BitDefender

$79.95/year for three computers

 

This security suite protects Windows PCs against security threats on the Internet and also includes tools for system maintenance and backup. It creates a firewall and scans all incoming content, e-mail, and messages for potential threats. It modifies its firewall based on the type of connection and monitors Wi-Fi network activity to prevent unauthorized access. The software also can be set for automatic file back-up, and includes 2 GB of online data storage.

 

 

IronKey Personal D100

IronKey

$79.95 for 1 GB version with one year of Internet security protection

 

This USB flash drive comes in a metal tamper-resistant case. Users must authenticate their password before accessing any of its contents. All data is encrypted automatically, and encryption keys cannot be transferred to another computer. It comes pre-configured with a version of the Firefox Web browser so all Web activity, cookies, and history are stored only on the drive.

 

 

LaCie d2 SAFE Hard Drive  

LaCie

$269

 

Compatible with Windows and Mac computers, this 1-terabyte external hard drive has several security features. There is a chain lock port for securing the drive to a desktop by cable. Files are automatically encrypted when saved. The drive has a built-in biometric fingerprint reader for verifying users and can be set to hold up to five user profiles.

 

 

ThinkPad T400s

Lenovo

Starting at $1,870

 

This new notebook features an array of the latest security features. Computer specs include a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 14.4-inch widescreen display, 2 GB RAM, 120 GB hard drive, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. Security features include an integrated biometric fingerprint reader, data encryption, remote system lockdown, and port disablement in the event of theft.

 

 

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Michael Antoniak is a journalist and technology expert with a focus on real estate applications. Antoniak also writes about real estate technology at his blog, RealTechTools. He can be contacted at antoniak@dtccom.net.