Norman Virus Control 5.6 Now Available in North America

(Fairfax, VA) - Norman Data Defense Systems, a specialist in the field of data security, announced today that it has released its most recent version of Norman Virus Control, NVC 5.6, in the U.S. market. NVC 5.6 introduces a new technology, which includes a simulated computer, offering a first-of-its-kind capability to detect new, unknown viruses in real time, without relying on pattern files.

"Imagine a time when your anti-virus software is capable of catching new viruses before they infect your computer. That time is here," stated Hank Dugan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norman Data Defense Systems, the North American subsidiary of Norman ASA. "Norman’s innovative simulated computer is the next wave in virus detection technology. Integrated into our newest version of AV software, this technology will stop new viruses in their tracks before they affect computers and before pattern files have even been written."

Currently, AV software relies heavily on pattern files, which are written by AV labs and distributed to users as updates or patches, after a virus has been identified and is circulating. Norman’s new, proactive technology uses a "simulated computer," as the first line of defense against virus attacks. The technology can identify and stop new, unknown viruses on operating systems independent of that of the machine hosting the virus scan. And it enables a suspected virus to "pretend" to execute fully, reducing false positives.

"With infection rates at an all time high, the need to stay ahead of destructive and prolific viruses has never been higher. NVC 5.6 will be the first to offer a faster, more comprehensive first line of defense against new viruses because it does not depend on pattern files being written and distributed after the virus is running rampant. This technology will set a new standard for the AV software industry," said Dugan.

Norman’s new simulated computer in NVC 5.6 captures and contains a virus so that it executes fully in a virtual, "pretend" environment which is independent of the operating system of the machine running the scan. This brings a higher level of protection to companies with multiple operating systems, because, for example, the software can detect viruses Windows viruses on an O/S 2 machine, or a Linux-virus on a Netware-server.

Norman’s new technology, further, greatly reduces false alarms by enabling suspicious files to execute fully in a simulated environment, complete with emulated network connections, where Norman watches exactly what the file does. By "seeing" exactly how the file executes from start to finish, the software can easily rule out false positives. This transcends traditional "sandbox technology," which only allows a suspicious file to begin to execute, resulting in frequent false alarms, causing network administrators to interrupt company workflow to investigate potential infections.

In recent days, Norman Virus Control, with this new technology, identified Bugbear.B and Sobig.D as new viruses, without pattern files in final testing prior to today’s release.

"Once again, Norman is on the cutting edge in developing technology that is designed to make life easier for customers, while providing comprehensive protection against viruses that are becoming more complex and prolific," added Dugan.

Contacts:

Carrie Collins, (301) 537-9166
Ann Brown (301) 951-8018

About Norman Data Defense Systems

The North American subsidiary of Norman ASA, Norman Data Defense Systems is a recognized data security specialist dedicated to providing computer security solutions and personalized customer care, with a particular focus on the SMB market. Norman’s top-rated products include those for virus control, desktop firewall protection and encryption. To find out more about the company, visit Norman Data Defense Systems via the Internet at www.Norman.com/US.