An early beta version of Microsoft Client Protection is available for a some customers

Microsoft Client Protection is a new security product that will help businesses to protect their Windows computers from emerging threats including spyware, rootkits and viruses. The product is targetted at providing unified protection for laptops, desktops and file servers.

Microsoft Client Protection will provide an integrate with Active Directory and include a  management console.

Browse to the Microsoft Client Protection website to find out more and to request access to the beta software. Please bear in mind that this software is not yet ready for deployment to production environments and access is limited.

According to the official announcement the product is anticipated to be released to manufacture by the end of 2006.