Road Runner to bundle security software

Road Runner, Time Warner Cable's broadband Internet service, on Tuesday said it will bundle Computer Associates' antivirus and firewall software as a perk for its customers.

Computer Associates' eTrust EZ Armor will be a free addition for Road Runner customers. The security software includes antivirus updates, protection for e-mail attachments, firewall capabilities, ad blocking and programs to prevent online monitoring.

The announcement comes after Road Runner relaunched its Web site with flashier graphics and features in hopes of becoming a more appealing destination for its users. Cable giant Comcast also revamped its Web site to be more attractive to its cable modem subscribers.

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Cable networks, phone companies and Web services are all trying to ride the growing demand for broadband Internet access. Cable and phone companies account for most broadband subscribers, leaving Internet giants such as America Online, Yahoo and MSN scrambling to sell feature-heavy products as well.

Road Runner joins a growing number of ISPs that are adding PC protection with their subscriptions. Last week, corporate cousin AOL added an anti-spyware program to its collection of security features.

Other Internet services such as EarthLink, MSN and Yahoo are packaging PC security software with subscription services in hopes of attracting new customers.

MSN last week launched MSN Premium, a subscription-based Web software pack that includes security features and spyware scanning. Yahoo recently launched Yahoo Plus, which includes antivirus and firewall software as part of its monthly subscription.