Dell Unveils Notebook Security Services

Dell on Monday introduced a number of services for tracking and recovering lost notebooks and protecting sensitive data on the machines.

The latest offerings are an expansion of the computer maker's ProSupport portfolio of services. Dell launched the support services for businesses in February, as part of its strategy of becoming more than just a PC supplier.

The latest offerings include laptop tracking and recovery, remote data deletion, hard drive data recovery, certified data destruction, accidental damage repair, and extended battery warranties. ProSupport services are provided by Dell or its partners.

In focusing on notebook services, Dell is taking advantage of the use of notebooks over desktops in the workplace, a trend that increases the need for tighter security for mobile PCs. A Ponemon Institute study sponsored by Dell found that 12,000 laptops are lost in U.S. airports each year, and 65% of business professionals who carry notebooks don't take steps to protect data.

Dell is offering notebook tracking and recovery services through partner Absolute Software, which provides the in-notebook technology that makes it possible to track a stolen or lost laptop. The company also works with law enforcement to recover stolen computers. In addition, Absolute technology provides remote data deletion.

Dell's newest offerings include data recovery from a failed hard drive that hasn't been properly backed up. In addition, Dell can destroy the hard drive and provide certification of destruction to meet compliance requirements.

Dell also offers an accident damage service that covers repair and replacement of mobile PCs in cases such as spills, drops, power surges, and other incidents not covered under limited warranties. Finally, Dell is offering extended service coverage for notebook batteries. Under the plan, Dell will provide one replacement battery during the coverage period.

Companies can tailor Dell support services to their needs by putting together their own bundles from the ProSupport portfolio. Pricing depends on the services chosen. The new mobility services are available in the United States and Canada. Dell plans to roll them out in Latin America, Europe, and Asia in July and August.

Notebook shipments are on track to eventually surpass desktop sales, as mobile PCs remain the driving force behind increases in the worldwide PC market, according to Gartner. Demand for notebooks is expected to accelerate as so-called "affordable" notebooks, which will have price points once thought impossible for mobile computers, become more widely available.

Dell is the No. 2 computer maker in the world, behind Hewlett-Packard.