Symantec Security Gateway vs. Custom Linux Box?

Posted by Cliff on Thursday February 20, 2003 @08:40PM from the which-way-would-you-go dept.

michaelr asks: "I run several email-based discussion lists. While only members of the lists are allowed to post, I've lately had problems with viruses as they often impersonate the members (or the members themselves are infected). I've identified two solutions: either build a Linux box running SMTP-based antivirus software, or purchase something like the Symantec Gateway Security which includes AV among lots of other things. The street price makes it a little more expensive that a Linux box + AV software, but it seems to be zero maintenance. The problem: the Symantec device is new, and before I place my trust in it, I'd like to know: has anyone had any experience with it, or should I just build the equivalent myself?"

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Does it come wiith support contract or not? by Jump · 2003-02-20 21:38 · Score: 4, Insightful

Personally I prefer to do things myself, but you can't do everything all time. So the real question is, if this box comes with support (and what quality that support has), rather the question if you can trust it now. Just like your home made solution, it will have bugs and will need patches/upgrades etc. If you have a channel to report problems to, and they fix it for a resonable subscription price, then go for it. You should also ask, for how long the support will be available (1 year, 10 years, ...).