Dealing With The High-Tech Legacy Of Y2K (NAPSA)—For many businesses, Y2K’s threat of high-tech disaster became “Why, who cares?” However, many of the computers businesses purchased to prepare for the threat of a millennial melt downare entering their fourth and fifth yearsoflife. As a result, many businesses are finding that this now aging technology is leaving them vulnerable to increased security threats and IT repair costs. While many companies focus on increasing network security, research indicates they may be leaving themselves exposed to both security and financial losses through outdated individual PCs and software. As a result, many businesses are looking for cost-effective ways to upgrade effectiveness and increase security. For example, HP (NYSE: HPQ)hasintroduced a suite of software solutions and secure new products as part of its PC Upgrade Program for businesses. The program is intended to help customers stay ahead of security risks and reduces IT costs by helping companies address manyof the issues associated with upgrading to new technology. The technology, solutions and services are designed to allow customersto better protect their data and control access to their network and enhance communications security. The upgrade program starts with an assessment of current IT costs. The assessment uses a free Web-based tool called the TCO Snapshot. This is said to provide quick identification of cost reduction opportunities, evaluation of Many businessesare looking for cost-effective ways to upgrade their individual computers while increasing security. current technology deployment and user requirements. For an additional charge, a Rapid Assessment Service is also offered. This starts with a two-day in-house assessment with the client’s IT staff. For companies ready to replace their aging hardware, the program offers several bundles of hardware, software and services ranging in cost from $689 to $909. These bundles include a business desktop, migration and deployment services, including program management, installation, set-up, trade-in, and disposal. HP also offers customers a Proof of Concept Service, which provides a 5-day onsite demonstration of HP migration tools, as well as an analysis of the customer’s networked environment. More information about HP,its services and its products is available at www.hp.com/go/pcupgrade.
