SMBs Feeling Patch Management Pain From Microsoft's Recent Internet Explorer Security Vulnerabilities; On-demand Security Vendor Alert Logic Available To Comment on Effects of Multiple Patches and Microsoft's Fixes on SMBs

Business Wire, April 3, 2006

WHAT: A series of new vulnerabilities to Microsoft Internet Explorer recently made public has again caused a great deal of confusion among business owners and IT managers dealing with managing patches needed to close security holes.

Security vulnerabilities made public in late March in Internet Explorer have brought about several third-party developed patches, as well as promises of upcoming patches from Microsoft. Where larger enterprises have more resources and more layers of security technology protecting their networks, SMBs have fewer layers of security and rely heavily on Microsoft patches to ensure the protection of their network and have no way of knowing the reliability of third-party patches. For SMBs, multiple patches and the slow reaction by Microsoft can lead to dangerous security vulnerabilities not being addressed quickly and effectively.

Chris Smith, Vice President of Marketing for Alert Logic, commented: "This is just another example of Microsoft sticking it to the little guy and not protecting their customers. Microsoft has proven yet again that the security of a company's network should not be left in their hands as they are slow to react to such vulnerabilities."

"Luckily that does not mean that SMBs are helpless. Technologies such as on-demand security services that monitor a network 24X7 are available and allow SMBs to break free of the need to rely on overpriced hardware and the slow moving Microsoft machine. There really is no longer any excuse by SMBs to not be able to protect their network through emergency patch situations as these."

WHO: Smith has 15 years of security and systems management industry experience and has held senior marketing positions with emerging and established security vendors, including BindView, BMC Software, NetIQ, PentaSafe Security Technologies and Postini. He is available to discuss the vulnerable situation that Microsoft is putting SMBs in, what it means for SMBs, and alternative methods of protection for companies concerned with third party patches and a slow-to-patch operating system

NOTE: Members of the media interested in obtaining commentary from Mr. Smith of Alert Logic should contact: Kristin Beltramini of Topaz Partners; Email: AlertLogic@topazpartners.com; 781-404-2400

About Alert Logic

Alert Logic improves internal network security at a fraction of the cost of conventional network security products. Its unique on-demand delivery model combines appliance-based threat management technology with dedicated security experts who monitor the network for threats 24x7 - delivering better security for minimal effort and cost. As a result, Alert Logic customers can detect threats, protect assets, and correct exposures before they impact their businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, more information about Alert Logic's Network Protection On Demand(TM) is available at www.alertlogic.com.