Antivirus software developer Sophos has opened a research facility in Sydney that will play a key role in its global battle against malicious code writers.
The Sophos Antivirus Research Laboratory Asia-Pacific will analyse viruses in Australia to respond seamlessly to new threats as quickly as possible.
Sophos already has a laboratory in the UK and recently opened an office in Japan.
At yesterday's official opening of the new facility in Sydney, Sophos CEO Jan Hruska said the company recognises the important role an Australian operation can play in the international fight against viruses.
"This lab will work with our head office facility to ensure we have a rapid response to virus threats; the Sydney facility will play a vital role in our 24-hour responsiveness and will become increasingly important in supporting our customers in New Zealand and South-East Asia," Hruska said.
"Key staff from the UK and Australian virus research facilities will interchange regularly to maintain a uniform level of technical excellence."
The laboratory will be headed by senior technical support engineer Sean Richmond and will later be bolstered by the arrival of Paul Ducklin, the company's global head of support.