Instant messaging world

As IM fever engulfs business, pricey products promise to secure it. Frank Thorsberg, special to PCWorld.com Instant messaging may have started out as a tool for teens, but it has morphed into a valuable communications tool for millions of business users. And as those businesses discover IM's benefits, they also encounter its risks--and a host of new products aimed at reducing those risks. These new products are available from everyone from big-name companies such as Microsoft and America Online to smaller start-ups, such as IMlogic Software and FaceTime Communications. They vary greatly in price and scope, but most of the products offer similar features: risk and security management tools, including searchable storage, usage monitoring, and controls over employee usage. But beyond the basic features, these products can vary widely. So how do you know if your company needs the security they offer, and whether you're getting your money's worth? Small Firms, Big Worr...