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June 23, 1999
Web posted at: 2:43 p.m. EDT (1843 GMT)

by Yael Li-Ron

NEW YORK (IDG) -- Paranoia, anyone? If you're using Windows 9x, your built-in security options are limited. You can set up a password-based log-on, but any semi-sophisticated user can overcome it in a matter of minutes.

If you need more robust data protection, U.K.-based Calluna Technology is offering PC BodyGuard, a $199 ISA card for Windows 9x and NT machines which protects the hard disk against unauthorized intruders.

The card, described by Calluna as a "hardwall solution," is situated between the hard disk's controller and the drive itself. Its built-in microprocessor monitors activities on the hard disk and prevents illegal access, including virus infections. Such attempted break-ins are directed to an area on the hard disk designated as an "Active Partition" -- a kind of no-man's-land area on the drive.

In addition to the Active Partition, PC BodyGuard includes WMR (Write Many Recoverable) technology that lets you bring your system back to a pre-crash condition in cases of infected boot partitions, accidental deletions, and other mishaps. WMR is similar to GoBack (see "GoBack: It's about time," link below) in its ability to undo most mishaps.

In addition to the card's installation software, PC BodyGuard comes with a slimmed-down version of Partition Magic, the popular hard disk partition utility from PowerQuest.