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CA flirts with white box makers

Free software, boys!

Computer Associates (CA) is showing a little leg to white box makers by starting a new program designed to tempt system builders into bundling its software with their kit.

CA is going after server, PC and laptop makers who target both the small and medium-sized business and home office markets. The white box makers can pick up CA antivirus and data backup software and then either load the software right on their systems or include it with shipments. CA provides the software at no charge to the PC makers and then the two companies share revenue if a customer moves from the trial versions to buying a license.

Not surprisingly, CA pitches the program as a way for white box makers to differentiate their kit from the rank and file.

The specific products in the deal are as follows: eTrust Antivirus, BrightStor ARCserve Backup for Windows, BrightStor ARCserve Backup for Laptops and Desktops, Unicenter Desktop DNA, as well as CA’s consumer software products eTrust EZ Antivirus and eTrust EZ Armor.

CA will train the white box makers on the software and offer free technical support for some products.

Overall, the move is a no brainer for CA, who like its rivals is going after small and medium-sized businesses more than ever. In addition, the software program plays on the growing popularity of white box systems. More information on the bundling exercise can be found here. ®

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