Microsoft unveils Exchange 2007 beta mark two

Microsoft on Monday launched the second beta of its Exchange 2007 messaging server and Forefront Exchange security service.

The second beta of Exchange 2007, available for download, is feature complete. The beta for Forefront Security, which provides antivirus and anti-spam scanning, is available for download as well.

Microsoft said both products are scheduled for completion late this year or early 2007.

The two products will be released in tandem to address customers' pressing need for improved email security services, said the software behemoth.

Dave Thompson, corporate vice president of the Exchange Business Unit at Redmond, said in a statement: "Today we enter the home stretch of delivering an unparalleled messaging solution, providing our customers with a cost-effective way to meet their most challenging messaging needs including compliance management and protection against constantly evolving security threats."

Martin LaMonica writes for CNET News.com