DALLAS, Jul 14, 2005 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Planet(SM) announced it is part of the global Fingerprint Sharing Initiative - an alliance between Arbor Networks and some of the world's most prominent telecommunications companies, ISPs, MSOs, Web hosting companies and network operators.

This first-of-its-kind initiative allows The Planet and other providers to share real-time cyber attack information globally, making it easier to stop attacks more quickly and closer to the source or point of entry and providing invaluable protection for The Planet's customers.

With some estimating the repair costs and revenue loss attributed to Internet attacks will approach $18 billion in 2005, The Planet and other companies across the globe have searched for a more effective way to stop malicious attacks on their networks.

"A security alliance of this scale is unprecedented," said Ben Bradberry, vice president of information security at The Planet. "By joining forces with Arbor Networks and this impressive list of alliance partners, The Planet is better equipped to protect our customers from malicious online attacks."

Through the addition of fingerprint sharing capabilities to its Peakflow SP, Arbor Networks helps providers protect networks from denial-of-service attacks, malicious hosts, worms, malware, spam, phishing and viruses.

Additionally, all attack profile information includes an encryption and authentication mechanism to ensure all shared information is both legitimate and protected.

According to Bradberry, the Fingerprint Sharing Initiative is unique. "In the past, sharing attack information has required email and phone calls, and was generally slow. The FSI is fast, efficient, and allows alliance members to securely exchange attack profiles to a wide audience that can use the information to make a difference."

"It's a win-win for all involved," concluded Bradberry. "This alliance allows us to be faster, more effective and more efficient when it comes to protecting both the company and our customers from malicious network activity."

ABOUT THE PLANET

Launched in 1994 and based in Dallas, The Planet provides a world of Internet and hosting services and solutions. As one of the fastest growing Web hosting companies in the world, The Planet serves small businesses and enterprise clients with value-added services such as advanced server monitoring, database administration, managed data storage, virtual private networks, and more. For additional information, visit www.theplanet.com.

SOURCE: The Planet

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