Panda Updates Cloud-Based Security Software

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 01/03/12

A software company has released a free beta version of its cloud-based security application that includes protection against malware loaded onto external devices, such as USB flash drives. Version 6.0 of Panda Security's Panda Cloud Office Protection is a cloud-based service for protecting PCs, servers, and laptops. They can be managed remotely through a Web-based console.

The device control technologies within the new release allow the security administrator to control how computers will respond to external devices such as thumb drives, DVDs, and digital cameras: by denying access, forcing read-only access, or granting full access.

The new version resides on Windows Azure, Microsoft's enterprise-grade cloud services platform.

Panda Cloud Office Protection is intended to provide cloud-based endpoint protection of files, email, HTTP/FTP downloads, and instant messaging against viruses and other cyber threats. It handles updates automatically and includes a personal firewall that's centrally or locally managed. The administrator can use a Web console to resolve security issues and access malware audits and reports. Installation onto user devices can be handled through emails with download URLs; via distribution through login scripts, Active Directory, Tivoli, SMS, or Lan Desk; and locally, by having the user download an installer from the console.

The beta of version 6.0 can be downloaded for free at the Panda Security Web site. The company said it will reward the most active beta users with Amazon coupons.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • glowing digital brain-shaped neural network surrounded by charts, graphs, and data visualizations

    Google Releases Advanced AI Model for Complex Reasoning Tasks

    Google has released Gemini 2.5 Deep Think, an advanced artificial intelligence model designed for complex reasoning tasks.

  • abstract pattern of cybersecurity, ai and cloud imagery

    OpenAI Report Identifies Malicious Use of AI in Cloud-Based Cyber Threats

    A report from OpenAI identifies the misuse of artificial intelligence in cybercrime, social engineering, and influence operations, particularly those targeting or operating through cloud infrastructure. In "Disrupting Malicious Uses of AI: June 2025," the company outlines how threat actors are weaponizing large language models for malicious ends — and how OpenAI is pushing back.

  • cybersecurity book with a shield and padlock

    NIST Proposes New Cybersecurity Guidelines for AI Systems

    The National Institute of Standards and Technology has unveiled plans to issue a new set of cybersecurity guidelines aimed at safeguarding artificial intelligence systems, citing rising concerns over risks tied to generative models, predictive analytics, and autonomous agents.

  • magnifying glass highlighting a human profile silhouette, set over a collage of framed icons including landscapes, charts, and education symbols

    AWS, DeepBrain AI Launch AI-Generated Multimedia Content Detector

    Amazon Web Services (AWS) and DeepBrain AI have introduced AI Detector, an enterprise-grade solution designed to identify and manage AI-generated content across multiple media types. The collaboration targets organizations in government, finance, media, law, and education sectors that need to validate content authenticity at scale.