When it comes to protecting the nation from cybercriminals, Congress faces the same challenge that most PC users do: dealing with equipment that rapidly becomes obsolete.

Hackers and terrorists aren't the biggest enemy, government analysts say. Given the lightning-quick evolutionary pace of computer technology, any legislation dealing with cyberspace is in danger of being immediately irrelevant.

"One of the most alarming characteristics of federal government is that it is ponderous and sluggish in its movements," says Chris Cox (R-California), who chairs the House Homeland Security Committee. He spoke at a hearing by a Homeland Security subcommittee Tuesday, discussing the race between statute and technology.

And that is where industry and consumes should help, say representatives of some of the nation's largest software firms, computer vendors, and online service providers.

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