Intel Corp. on Monday unveiled a new version of its business and enterprise-oriented vPro platform, which from now on supports Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) earlier known under “LaGrande” code-name. With the help of new chipset and processors, TXT prohibits virtual machines in virtualized computing environments to interact, which makes it harder to attack such computers.

The new version of Intel vPro platforms is based around Intel Q35 core-logic as well as Intel Core 2 Duo E6850, E6750 and E6550 microprocessors that support such technologies as Virtualization, Trusted Execution Technology (TXT), enhanced Active Management Technology (AMT) as well as improved with improved System Defense Filters.

The main new feature of the revamped vPro is Intel TXT, which protects data within virtualized computing environments. Intel TXT ensures that virtual machine monitors are less vulnerable to attacks that cannot be detected by today’s conventional software-security solutions. By isolating assigned memory through this hardware-based protection, it keeps data in each virtual partition protected from unauthorized access from software in another partition.

In addition, Intel enhanced its Intel vPro platform with improved System Defense Filters. These filters can identify greater numbers and varieties of threats in the network traffic flow.

The latest version of Intel vPro also offers an embedded trust agent, the first certified by Cisco, providing the industry’s only 802.1x compatible manageability solution not dependent on OS-availability. This trust agent offers Cisco’s IT customers the ability to manage systems, even if powered off or the OS is down, without lowering the security on 802.1x networks and Cisco Self-Defending Network products.

Major computer makers and channel resellers around the world are now selling desktop PCs based Intel vPro platform. Currently, more than 350 companies are deploying this technology worldwide ranging from the thousands to tens of thousands of PCs per business.