What we will be discussing here is enhancing perimeter protection with a SMTP anti-virus gateway. This will be just one layer of the over all security against malware. Perimeter protection is not meant to replace desktop and server protection, it is just another layer of the over all protection strategy. Because of the increased use of mass mail payloads for virus distribution, the SMTP anti-virus gateway can provide one of the best overall returns on investment when it comes to protecting corporate assets. Anti-virus software on the gateway can intercept infected attachments before they are delivered to a mailbox.
Administrators can update the anti-virus gateway much faster in response to a new virus.
It simplifies configuration, and can easily alert system administrators of problems. There are several different ways to implement an SMTP anti-virus gateway. Several firewalls allow for the addition of modules that can scan SMTP mail. Or you can add a specialized mail relay server, which scans all mail moving in and out of the trusted network. As with the acquisition of any new technology, due diligence should be exercised in evaluating and selecting an SMTP anti-virus gateway.