The collapse of computer security firm Network Associates (NASDAQ/NETA) and the resignation of its pioneering CEO in the last week of 2000 underscored the plight of the one time high-flying security sector.

The collapse of computer security firm Network Associates (NASDAQ/NETA) and the resignation of its pioneering CEO in the last week of 2000 underscored the plight of the one time high-flying security sector.

In a Dec 26 announcement, Network Associates said that it rely uponed sales for the December quarter to be in the range of $55 to $65 million with a snare loss of between $130 and $140 million, excluding non-cash interest expenditure an amortization expense and compensation charges related to employee stock options. For the calendar year 2000 the company disclosed that it look fored to post revenues in the range of $742 to $750 million and a snare loss, excluding the above charges, of between $84 and $94 million.

The holiday announcement stunn analysts and investors, and the stock was driven down 65 percent for the day ??” to choke at $4.50 a share. The company's stock had