Yahoo and Symantec launch co-branded Internet Security Services

This move gives Yahoo! access to security software arena, which is strategically important as the internet and desktop space continue to merge and co-mingle as the major search players (Google, MSN, Yahoo!, AOL) vie to capture unique users who more and more are switching to broadband.

AOL is currently testing out their new integrated security package named Total Care, which is powered by McAfee security products.

Microsoft, has recently launched their One Care security suite and ties into MSN will likely follow suit.

Google has yet to announce a sercurity partner but has third party options in its Google Pack of recommended essential software. One of the main security components featured are Symantec's Norton AntiVirus 2005 Special Edition with a free 6-months of updates. The other is the very popular Lavasoft Ad-Aware SE Personal anti-spyware software.

With regards to integrated internet security suites, the main components are: Anti-Virus, Anti-Spyware, and Firewall. Follow on pieces which are often found in security software packages are: Anti-Spam, Performance Tuners, Network Utilities (ie. wireless), Data Back-Up solutions, and Data Security (Anti-Phishing).

Symantec and MacAfee's next generation security offerings to compete with Microsoft's OneCare are Symantec's Norton360 and McAfee's "Falcon" platform.