Trend Micro and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) have integrated the security vendor’s Worry-Free Business Security solution into the dashboard of Windows Server 2012 Essentials, which, combined with the anti-malware software’s support for Windows 8, makes for an SMB-centric security offering, according to the companies.

The Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security solution features anti-malware and data protection through a secure, centralized, web-based management console, now integrated into the Windows Server Essentials dashboard, allowing users to manage their devices from any location. It protects machines from viruses, spyware, spam and malicious websites.

Windows Server 2012 Essentials, formerly Windows Server Small Business Essentials, is aimed at SMBs, most of which need security to protect their servers, data and core business processes and functions. Trend Micro’s Worry-Free security integration and support offers SMBs security tools tailored to their specific requirements, company officials said.

“By working with Microsoft to integrate Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security Services and Windows Server 2012 Essentials, Trend Micro small-business customers benefit from cloud computing and mobile applications while feeling confident that their information is safe,” said Magi Diego, Trend Micro director, SMB Marketing.

Microsoft positions Windows Server 2012 Essentials as well-suited for smaller businesses, owing to its easy setup, installation, application migration, less-complex management and network-wide security features. The software houses Microsoft’s technologies for management, networking, data storage, backup, security and document and printer sharing as well as providing integration capabilities for cloud-based applications and services.

“Trend Micro is taking advantage of the built-in ability to include their offerings in the single management console in Microsoft Windows Server 2012 Essentials,” said David Fabritius, Microsoft product marketing manager, Server and Tools. “This enables ease of management of the entire IT infrastructure, including security, reducing costs for channel partners and small businesses.”