Bell Canada (NYSE: BCE) is extending its ISP capabilities beyond connectivity by bringing McAfee security services to its end-users.
Branded as McAfee Security from Bell, the new service will provide a set of online security services including virus, spyware and malware protection, and is compatible with Windows and Mac systems.
The service provider said that Bell Internet customers will be transferred to one of three security service tiers: Good, Better or Best.
Under this structure, customers who already use free Bell Internet security will get the Good package at no extra charge, while other Bell Internet customers with enhanced security services will be moved to the corresponding Better and Best security packages for CAD 5 (USD 4.93) and CAD 10 (USD 9.86), respectively.
Depending on the package, Bell Internet will offer various other security features such as SiteAdvisor, smartphone and tablet protection (BlackBerry and Android), encrypted storage, and parental controls featuring social network monitoring, program blocking, YouTube content filtering, and activity reports.
Providing enhanced services like online security via partners such as McAfee has benefits to both Bell Canada and its customer base.
For Bell, the service adds another element from a partner that already understands computer security it can use to further its bond with the customer at a time when cable operators continue to upgrade speeds and capabilities.
Likewise, providing McAfee services plays into the idea that outside of the most technology savvy user, most consumers typically don't have the time or take the time to stay on top of making sure their equipment has been equipped with up to date security software.
For more:
- see the release
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