Local software firm goes globalBy RAVIND RAMESH 

MALAYSIAN Internet software developer InternetNow Sdn Bhd has signed an agreement with Norwegian-based Norman ASA, which said it will market the local company's Internet security product globally. 

The agreement gives Norman distribution and licensing rights to InternetNow's MyFirewallNow!. 

According to Tor-Aksel Froyland, Norman's vice-president of research and development, the Norwegian company will also incorporate technology from MyFirewallNow! into its upcoming antivirus software, Norman Virus Control 5.0, which is slated for a late September release. 

"This gives users total protection from virus threats. The incorporation of MyFirewallNow! allows our software to protect users from more than malicious code - it also protects them from trojan horse attacks,'' as well,'' he said. 

Norman will distribute standalone versions of MyFirewallNow! globally through its subsidiaries. 

"With the agreement, we hope to grow by 100% this year,'' said Thomas Tan, director of InternetNow. 

The company is projecting a turnover of RM1.5mil this year, compared to last year's turnover of RM550,000. 

MyFirewallNow!, InternetNow's sixth product since its inception in 1998, is expected to be available by the end of this month. 

September 

Its other products include MailNow!, ProxyNow!, ProtectNow!, CybercafeNow! and BlockNow!. 

MyFirewallNow! secures PCs that are connected to the Internet, and its target market are both unfamiliar computer users and experts. It provides easy installation for new users, yet allows custom configurability for experts. 

Running on the Windows platform, the software is able to control inbound and outbound data packets. 

It allows users to control Active X applications, Javascript, Java applets, cookies, banner advertisements, and can even block pop-up windows. 

For more information, contact InternetNow at (03) 7722-5320, fax (03) 7722-3929 or visit http://www.internetnow.com.my/. 

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