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Absolute Software launches Device Freeze

New feature of Computrace by Absolute Software enables IT administrators to freeze computer screens and display a message

October 28, 2009

Absolute® Software Corporation (“Absolute” or the “Company”) (TSX: ABT), provider of firmware-based, patented, computer theft recovery, data protection and secure IT asset management solutions today announced the launch of Device Freeze, a new feature for Computrace®. Built on tamper-resistant Computrace technology, Device Freeze enables IT administrators to remotely freeze the screen of a device and display an on-screen message, making the computer largely unusable until unfrozen by an authorised administrator.

Commercial customers of Absolute can now use Device Freeze to remotely interrupt the use of computers and display an on-screen message to communicate with end-users. IT administrators can use Device Freeze in cases where they need a computer returned for servicing, auditing, or simply verification of who is using the computer - as in the case of a student who hasn’t returned a school computer at year end or an employee whose computer is due for servicing.

When Device Freeze is activated, a persistent full-screen message is displayed to the end-user, preventing normal use of the device. The IT administrator can customise the message to communicate why the screen is frozen and to identify what is required by the end-user in order to unfreeze it. Once the end-user carries out the desired behaviour, the IT administrator can remotely unfreeze the screen, enabling normal use of the device.

Executive quote

"Our customers now have one more benefit from using Computrace to manage their computer population. Device Freeze can help IT improve efficiencies by reducing time spent on help desk cases," said John Livingston, chief executive officer and chairman of Absolute. "Not only can Absolute customers use Computrace to know where their computers are located and what's on them, they can use Device Freeze and its messaging capabilities to help ensure that computers are returned to IT in a timely manner."

Pricing and availability

Availability
Device Freeze is now available for PCs running a supported Windows OS with Computrace products that include the Data & Device Security feature category.

About the company

About Absolute Software
Absolute Software Corporation (TSX: ABT) is the leader in computer theft recovery, data protection and secure IT asset management solutions. Absolute Software provides organizations and consumers with solutions in the areas of regulatory compliance, data protection and theft recovery. The Company's Computrace software is embedded in the firmware of computers by global leaders, including ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu, General Dynamics Itronix, HP, Lenovo, Motion, Panasonic and Toshiba, and the Company has reselling partnerships with these OEMs and others, including Apple. For more information about Absolute Software and Computrace, visit www.absolute.com and http://blog.absolute.com .

Contact details

Public Relations:
Ellen Spenceley/Lisa Gillingham
absolutesoftwareuk@lewispr.com

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