Websense acquires SurfContol

Security buy-out stuns channel, but chief executive moves to allay resellers

US-based web filtering Websense has stunned the security channel by launching a £201m bid for UK rival SurfControl.

Websense said the agreement, which has received unanimous backing from both boards, would increase its clout against international rivals and boost its SME presence.

Channel onlookers had expected Israel-based Check Point to land SurfControl after the latter issued a statement in December admitting it had been approached by an unidentified suitor (CRN, 26 February).

Websense immediately moved to reassure resellers of its intent to support both channels.

Gene Hodges, chief executive at Websense, said: “The combination Websense and SurfControl is expected to benefit customers, partners and shareholders by creating an IT security solutions company with the scale and product offering to compete more effectively with large global security software companies.

“After the transaction closes, we are committed to supporting SurfControl’s and Websense's customers and channel partners. We believe the combination is a win for the customers and partners of both companies.”

Hodges added that a further objective of the deal, which is expected to close four months following regulatory approval, is to fuel SME growth. “We are especially excited about having SurfControl’s BlackSpider on-demand content security solution available to our global customer base,” she said.

Patricia Sueltz, chief executive of SurfControl, said: “The proposed acquisition by Websense represents another major step in the development of SurfControl's business, which will become part of a larger organization better positioned to compete in the growing market for internet security services.”