QiHU 360 Inc.

Overview

QiHU 360 Inc., commonly known as 360 Security, is a prominent Chinese technology company primarily recognized for its internet security products. Founded in 2004, the company has grown to become one of China's largest internet companies, offering a diverse portfolio of services that extend beyond security to include a popular web browser, a search engine, and various mobile applications. 360 Security's core mission revolves around providing users with a safe and secure online environment, leveraging its extensive research and development capabilities in cybersecurity.

Key Features

• Antivirus and Security Software: 360 Security's flagship products include a suite of antivirus and internet security software designed to protect personal computers and mobile devices from malware, viruses, and other online threats. These products often feature real-time protection, system scanning, and vulnerability assessment.
• 360 Browser: The company's web browser, often referred to as 360 Secure Browser, is a popular choice in China. It integrates security features directly into the browsing experience, aiming to block malicious websites, phishing attempts, and intrusive ads.
• 360 Search (Haosou.com/So.com): 360 operates a significant search engine in China, known by domain names such as Haosou.com and formerly So.com. It provides users with web search capabilities, news aggregation, and other related services.
• Mobile Security and Apps: 360 Security has a strong presence in the mobile market with its security apps for Android and iOS, offering features like virus scanning, junk file cleaning, and app management. They also develop other popular mobile applications.
• Cloud Services and Big Data: Leveraging its vast user base, 360 Security collects and analyzes data to enhance its security products and services, as well as to develop new offerings in areas like big data and artificial intelligence.

Typical Use Cases

• Personal Computer Security: Individuals seeking comprehensive protection against online threats for their PCs, including virus detection, malware removal, and firewall protection.
• Mobile Device Protection: Smartphone and tablet users looking for apps to secure their devices, clean up storage, and manage app permissions.
• Web Browsing: Users in China who prefer a browser with built-in security features and a localized search experience.
• Internet Search: Individuals seeking an alternative search engine in China for general web searches, news, and information.
• Business Security Solutions: While primarily consumer-focused, 360 Security also offers enterprise-level security solutions and threat intelligence for businesses.

Pricing & Hosting Model

360 Security's business model is largely based on a freemium model for its core security software, offering robust free versions supported by advertising and potential upsells for premium features or additional services. Its search engine and browser generate revenue through advertising and search result placements. The company operates its own extensive cloud infrastructure to support its services, including data storage, processing, and the delivery of security updates and search results. Many of its services are free for end-users, with monetization occurring through advertising, data insights, and premium subscriptions for advanced features or business solutions.

Alternatives

• For Antivirus/Security Software: Norton, McAfee, Kaspersky, Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes.
• For Web Browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera.
• For Search Engines (Global): Google Search, Bing, DuckDuckGo.
• For Mobile Security Apps: Lookout, Avira, Sophos.

While 360 Security is a dominant player in the Chinese market, global users often opt for well-established international alternatives for security and browsing needs.