Microsoft logs on to secure corporate IM

Microsoft plans to release in December new software designed to secure instant messaging and other communications within big companies.

The Redmond, Wash., company said Tuesday that its Live Communications Server 2005 software will let companies encrypt their instant-messaging communications internally and link IM systems between companies so that suppliers and other business partners can share secure IM connections.

The standard edition of LCS will cost $750 per server. The enterprise edition, which includes more fail-safe options and the ability to cluster the software on many servers, will cost $3,000 per server. Microsoft will offer bulk discounts for both versions as well.

Additionally, Live Communications Server, or LCS, will include an option for letting companies link to public instant-messaging networks from Microsoft, America Online and Yahoo, so that employees can chat with users on the Big Three IM services.

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