Email Filtering + Business Email Management

Websense plans to acquire security vendor SurfControl, once one of its main rivals in the content filtering space, for some US$400 million in cash.

SurfControl, which started out in content filtering and email security, last July added managed services to its portfolio by acquiring BlackSpider Technologies.

BlackSpider is a key asset for Websense in the acquisition because it provides email and web filtering managed services, protecting companies from viruses, spyware, phishing, and other malware, Gene Hodges, CEO at Websense, said in a conference call.

Websense plans to leverage SurfControl’s small business savviness as well as incorporate elements of its channel strategy, said Doug Wride, CFO at San Diego-based Websense. Wride will take over as president of Websense and lead the SurfControl integration efforts.

Websense sees strong demand for managed web and email security services, which makes the BlackSpider portfolio a good fit, Hodges said, adding that the two companies would have more than 41 million seats under subscription if the deal is approved.

Source: CRN