IBM to pay $1.3B for security provider
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The purchase of Internet Security Systems, Inc., a publicly traded Internet security provider based in Atlanta, Ga., will add 11,000 customers including 17 of the world's largest banks and 15 of the largest governments.
IBM Corp. announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Internet Security Systems, Inc., a publicly traded Internet security provider based in Atlanta, Ga.
The all-cash transaction is worth approximately $1.3 billion, or $28 per share, and is subject to ISS shareholder and regulatory approvals and other closing conditions, according to an IBM statement. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2006.
ISS has sold security solutions to thousands of companies and governments to protect them against Internet threats on networks, desktops and servers. ISS software and services monitor and manage network vulnerabilities and respond to potential threats. The company's 11,000 customers include 17 of the world's largest banks, 15 of the largest governments, 11 top public insurance companies and 13 top IT organizations.
IBM called the acquisition 'an important addition to its security and privacy services business.' It is the latest step in its strategy 'to utilize IT services, software and consulting expertise to automate labor-based processes into standardized, software-based services that help clients optimize and transform their businesses.'
The purchase also purchase Internet Security Systems, Inc., a publicly traded Internet security provider based in Atlanta, Ga.
IBM said it will continue to make available ISS' X-Force security intelligence service, which protects networks with detailed analyses of global online vulnerabilities and threat conditions. And the ISS network of security operations centers, which include sites in Tokyo, Brussels, Brisbane, Detroit and Atlanta, will join IBM's own global security centers.
Following completion of the acquisition, IBM said it intends to:
'Establish ISS' operations as a business unit within IBM's Infrastructure Management Services unit, part of IBM Global Technology Services.
'Integrate ISS' software technology with Tivoli's IT service management portfolio, which includes software for identity management, access management, service-oriented architecture (SOA) security and security Information management.
'Market and sell ISS' Managed Security Services and its portfolio of protection products through IBM's and ISS' worldwide sales channels and business partners.
'Expand the scope and capabilities of IBM's business and IT asset management consulting practices, and deliver services for ISS-based solutions through IBM Global Services.
'ISS is a strategic and valuable addition to IBM's portfolio of technology and services,' said Val Rahmani, general manager of Infrastructure Management Services at IBM Global Services, in a statement. 'This acquisition will help IBM to provide companies with access to trained experts and leading-edge processes and technology to evaluate and protect against threats and enforce security policies.'
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