Unified communications vendor Presence Networks has added new functionality to its presence-based comms product Networker designed to give users enhanced security and help it to compete with Microsoft's Live Communications Server.

The firm is using anti-malware specialist Sophos' technology to scan all files uploaded to or downloaded from the Networker gateway for malware including viruses, Trojans, worms and spyware.

The anti-virus technology will come as standard for any firm that chooses the Presence Networks service which includes file transfers, according to chief executive, Symon Blomfield.

"It's good news for IT – it alerts the user and protects the company," he added. "If you have extended people on your system, it could also stop the embarrassment of accidentally infecting a customer's machine."

Sophos Anti Virus’ scanning engine will be integrated with all versions of Networker including the Networker Web Access Client and the Networker Mobile Client currently in development for the BlackBerry and smartphones, said the firm.