Symantec's Secret SaaS Weapon

Symantec (SYMC) is using the old Trojan Horse strategy to conquer new software markets.

Let me explain.

After a year of anticipation, Symantec has finally launched its software-as-a-service platform -- which is called the Symantec Protection Network [SPN]). Initially, SPN supports online storage, with security services expected to arrive later this year or sometime in 2009.

SPN could be a compelling option for small businesses that are seeking to backup their data and have it protected at an offsite facility.

Now, for that Trojan Horse Strategy. SPN offers close integration with Symantec Backup Exec. In case you didn't know, Backup Exec ranks among the most popular on-site backup and restore platforms in the industry.

Now, consider the possibilities: Customers that use Backup Exec on their servers might be inclined to pay an additional monthly fee SPN's offsite data protection services.

On the flip side, SPN customers might be prompted to license Backup Exec for added on-site data protection. Either way, Symantec wins.

Of course, SPN and Backup Exec aren’t the only games in town. Startups like Vembu Technologies have lined up more than 550 partners that specialize in storage as a service. EMC (EMC) has launched a storage as a service platform that may ultimately tie to managed ERP systems. And multiple MSP platform providers are exploring ways to integrate their services with Amazon.com’s Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3).For Symantec partners and customers, the potential advantages of SPN are clear: Instead of forcing customers to choose from a hodgepodge of online services, SPN could eventually become a single platform for complete information protection.

Admittedly, SPN isn’t ready to fulfill that mandate today. It took Symantec longer than initially expected to get SPN online and ready for action. I originally expected the service to debut in the fall of 2007.

Now, we'll finally find out if SPN was worth the wait.

Disclosure: none