Cisco beefs up network security arsenal

Cisco is announcing a new set of products designed to help companies reduce the risk of data loss on their networks.

The company on Wednesday said it would offer two new network appliances as well as a new consulting service, all designed to curb data-loss risks and improve network security.

Cisco hopes that new products will appeal to larger enterprises looking for new ways to reduce the risk of data leaks.

"Today, we are providing accurate and intuitive solutions for monitoring and preventing data loss where it is extremely critical, on email and on the web," said Keith Valory, director of product management for Cisco's security technology unit.

"These solutions give our customers an immediate head-start on reducing the risk of data loss."

The first of the two new appliances will focus on email security. Dubbed the IronPort C660 Email Security Appliance, the new device will be targeted towards large enterprises.

The appliance allows administrators to perform security checks and audits of email services and allows IT staff to set multiple policies to govern the use of email and prevent internal data leaks.

The second appliance will target web security. The IronPort S660 will similarly audit and enforce security policy for web services such as mail, social networking sites, blog services and FTP channels.

In addition to the two new network devices, the company is launching a new consulting service.

The Data Loss Prevention Risk Assessment Service will allow companies to bring in security consultants who will audit and analyse network security and data protection within the company and offer recommendations for improving security measures.