Oxford, UK-based security vendor Sophos Ltd. updated its Sophos Cloud service on Tuesday to include support for Android devices, adding to its hosted security console that already supports desktops and iOS devices.
Sophos offers access to its management console via a web browser, where administrators can manage user profiles and devices. The product charges a subscription fee based on the number of users, not number of devices. The security offering covers capabilities like antivirus, mobile device management, and web security.
Sophos Cloud users can now tap the Sophos Mobile Security product to provide antivirus support to their Android devices. Sophos said this malware protection can be added without affecting performance or draining the battery. This app is also available for free in the Google Play store to install for individual users.
Android devices are the most vulnerable to threats out of all major operating platforms, says Marty Ward, vice-president of product marketing and corporate communications in a video on the Sophos website.
“Sophos cloud is the first security solution to manage PCs, Macs and mobile devices from a central console, now with support both iOS and Android,” he says. “Every day the risk is growing and we’re proud to offer the most comprehensive protection for businesses to keep confidential information out of the wrong hands.”
Sophos also announced the Anti-Malware SDK for Android to allow for partners such as mobile carriers, telecommunications services, and IT vendors to tie in the Sophos antivirus engine to their own offerings.