Verizon announced a new group of managed security solutions, Business Internet Security Services, aimed at small businesses. The services are the first in a series of managed services that company plans to offer to both small and mid-sized businesses.

“The nature of small business is changing. As more and more consumers and businesses rely on the Internet for commerce and research, it is imperative that businesses protect themselves from insidious attacks,” said Eric Cevis, vice president for wholesale and business markets. “With Business Internet Security Services, Verizon can now offer small and mid-sized businesses peace of mind with a complete, secure and affordable Internet access solution from one provider.”

The first managed service offerings available are for perimeter firewalls and VPN. Verizon Premises Firewall Services includes hardware and software to protect a company's infrastructure as well as site-to-site connectivity for multiple business locations. Pricing starts at $130 per month with a $206 setup fee and requires a 2-year contract.

Verizon Virtual Private Network helps protect connectivity for users at remote locations by using the same hardware and software as the Premises Firewall Services. Pricing starts at $172 per month and requires a two-year contract.

Verizon monitors the services and notifies customers of problems and attacks. Customers can access Web-based monthly summary reports to learn details regarding any detected attacks.

The company plans to begin offering desktop firewall and antivirus solutions later this month.