Intel has agreed to acquire McAfee in a deal valued at approximately $7.68 billion ($48 per share).
McAfee offers a suite of software-related security solutions, including end-point and networking products and services that are focused on helping to ensure Internet-connected devices and networks are protected.
Intel said the combination of security software and hardware from one company will ultimately protect devices better from online threats. Intel also said the deal augments its mobile wireless strategy and signals its commitment to focus on security on par with energy-efficient performance and connectivity.
“With the rapid expansion of growth across a vast array of Internet-connected devices, more and more of the elements of our lives have moved online,” said Paul Otellini, Intel president and CEO. “In the past, energy-efficient performance and connectivity have defined computing requirements. Looking forward, security will join those as a third pillar of what people demand from all computing experiences.
“The cyber threat landscape has changed dramatically over the past few years, with millions of new threats appearing every month,” said Dave DeWalt, president and CEO of McAfee. “We believe this acquisition will result in our ability to deliver a safer, more secure and trusted Internet-enabled device experience.”
McAfee, based in Santa Clara and founded in 1987, is the world’s largest dedicated security technology company with approximately $2 billion in revenue in 2009. It has approximately 6,100 employees.
http://www.intel.com
http://www.mcafee.com
