3COM Adds Internet Filtering to VPN Firewall and Routers

3COM has announced that it has joined with SurfControl to add Internet filtering capabilities to its VPN Firewall and line of OfficeConnect Routers. The new feature will filter out malicious or inappropriate Web content that could be disruptive to business operations or create a liability for companies, schools, or government offices.

3COM claims that research shows that companies lose up to $3,000 a year per employee due to non-business related Internet activity. It also cites IDC research saying that the filtering market is expected to grow from $506 million in 2002 to $2 billion in 2007.

"This valuable filtering technology is ideal for customers who want to eliminate misuse of Internet content," Neal Kaufman, senior director of small business product management, 3Com, said in a statement. "Because of its easy deployment, this service is particularly effective for small and medium-sized business customers."