Qwest, IBM target SMB network security

Qwest and IBM believe that just because you're an SMB doesn't mean you shouldn't have access to the same network security services big enterprises have.

Taking elements of IBM's already deployed solutions, including those it acquired from the former Internet Security Systems (ISS), Qwest and IBM will extend two new managed security offerings: Qwest iQ Managed Security (MSS) and Qwest iQ Newtork Management Service (NMS) to the SMB segment.

"We saw an evolving need from our customer base for security services," said Bob Schroeder, director of product management for Qwest in a LightReading article. "We are focused on a market that we think has largely been ignored but has the same need for managed infrastructure of their routers, hubs, switches, and IT equipment as larger companies."

Customers that sign up for Qwest's MSS service will be support by IBM's ISS, which incorporates global redundant security operations centers, and access to always-on security analyst support. Qwest's iQ NMS service provides out-tasking of all or part of a customer's data network and similar network device fault monitoring. In addition, customers can also look at network performance statistics, alerts and manage trouble tickets through Qwest's QControl Portal.

Sold through its direct sales force and indirect sales partners, Qwest's new managed service will be made available to customers in its 14-state ILEC territory and on its national fiber network.  

For more:
- see the release here
- LightReading has this article

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