Monday, 3 March 2008

McAfee & VMware Enhance Virtualization Security

McAfee, has entered into a broad relationship with VMware Inc. to advance virtualization security. As part of the relationship McAfee plans to embed the newly announced VMware VMsafe security technology into future security solution offerings.

"With the popularity of virtualization and the rush to reap its benefits, security must not become an afterthought," said David Scholtz, McAfee senior vice president of worldwide strategic alliances.

"When it comes to security, there's no better way to run applications than in virtual machines," said Brian Byun, vice president of global partners and solutions at VMware.

Another aspect of this agreement will see the security company signing an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) dealt with VMware to utilize its VMware ESX Server technology.
The OEM agreement to use VMware ESX Server 3i technology in future security solutions, includes purpose-built versions of VMware ESX Server 3i to support McAfee security technology.

"With VMsafe, VMware introduces a new paradigm in the security of virtualization just like the company introduced a new paradigm in computing with its game-changing virtualization software," said Bolin.

"Together McAfee and VMware will be able to protect virtual environments in ways beyond what is available to protect physical environments today." McAfee demonstrated VMsafe on stage during a keynote by VMware Chief Scientist Mendel Rosenblum.

Parallel to this announcement, McAfee also announced the availability of its new Email and Web Security Virtual Appliance, built from the ground up for the VMware platform and a new virtual infrastructure security assessment service.