Websense, Inc. has unveiled a preview of its data loss prevention (DLP) solution for the endpoint and announced a new technology partnership.

According to the official press release, Websense has launched an Open Endpoint Initiative that ensures integration of its DLP solution, Websense Content Protection Suite with other endpoint security offerings.  As part of the initiative, Websense has announced a new partnership with Lumension Security for unified protection and control over enterprise end points.  Additionally, Websense is extending the capabilities of the network-based Content Protection Suite to the endpoint.

"DLP usually starts on the network because that's the most cost-effective way to get the broadest coverage," said Rich Mogull, independent consultant and founder, Securosis.  "However, in the long-term, users will need both network and endpoint capabilities for a complete content protection solution.  Adding an endpoint agent to a DLP solution not only gives the ability to discover stored content, but to potentially protect systems no longer on the network or even protect data as it's being actively used."    

"Combining our Sanctuary Device Control and Websense data awareness will provide joint customers significant value by enabling them to create policies, protecting their sensitive data by limiting the ability to copy it to removable media devices and storage," said Mike Wittig, president and CTO, Lumension.  "Websense's open framework coupled with Lumension's policy enforcement truly empowers customers with the choice and flexibility to extend their existing endpoint security investments and better protect the lifeblood of their business content." 

The Content Protection Suite endpoint focuses on controlling the data rather than the peripheral device or media.