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SCOTT JAGOW: Microsoft isn’t the only company launching new software. Today, Earthlink rolls out a security system that’s kinda like a spyware and virus exterminator. Janet Babin reports from the Innovations Desk at North Carolina Public Radio.

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JANET BABIN: Earthlink’s new Attack Shield uses technology licensed from Sana Security.

It monitors the behavior of new and unknown software on your PC. If it appears suspicious in any way, you’ll get a warning message. And Attack Shield could even kill the unknown software.

Analyst Richi Jennings with Ferris Research says the new system has merit, but . . .

RICHI JENNINGS: Looking at the behavior of programs, and trying to work out whether that’s bad behavior or good behavior, is more of an art than a science, and the risk is so-called false positives.

So that legitimate programs could end up destroyed.

But Jennings says Earthlink’s new feature is an effective way to limit spam.

The new security system will cost subscribers a few extra dollars per month. Non-members will have to pay more for it.

I’m Janet Babin for Marketplace.