Seattle, Apr 02: Security software maker Network Associates said on Tuesday that it would acquire IntruVert Networks for $100 million in cash to beef up its network protection technology.

Santa Clara, California-based Network Associates said the purchase of privately held IntruVert, which will close within 45 days, will allow it to offer hardware that blocks hackers from breaking into computer networks.

COMMERCIAL BREAK
SCROLL TO CONTINUE READING

Network Associates currently offers a range of computer security products and services, including the McAfee brand of virus and firewall protection software as well as corporate security management services, but has been broadening its range of security services in response to similar moves by rival Symantec.

San Jose, California-based IntruVert offers "real-time" intrusion detection with the capability of not only detecting, but stopping attacks, Network Associates said.

IntruVert technology also guards computer networks from "denial of service" attacks that happen when networks are swamped with requests for information, effectively shutting them down.

IntruVert, which was founded in October 2000, had been raising funds while searching for an opportunity to go public, sources said.

Investment bank Lehman Brothers advised Network Associates on the deal while Credit Suisse First Boston acted as adviser to IntruVert.
Shares in Network Associates rose 5 cents to close at $13.86 on the New York Stock Exchange. Bureau Report