Proofpoint makes buyout buzz with $1bn Hornetsecurity deal

The acquisition will aim to strengthen the US vendor’s position in the SMB market

US vendor Proofpoint has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Hornetsecurity, as the company aims to dive deeper into the SMB market.

The deal is reportedly worth $1bn, according to CNBC.

Hornetsecurity brings over $160m (£120.52m) in ARR, as well as more than 20 per cent year-on-year growth.

The German company also brings over 12,000 channel partners and MSPs, as well as more than 125,000 partnering SMBs across Europe.

Upon closing, Proofpoint will make Hornetsecurity’s platform available for MSPs and their customers worldwide.

The Hannover-based firm will serve as the central hub for all MSP and SMB customers within the group and will strive to ensure a unified approach as well as enhanced service delivery for all.

Daniel Hofmann, founder and CEO of Hornetsecurity, will remain at his role.

“Hornetsecurity’s AI-powered security platform enables thousands of MSPs to deliver enterprise-grade protection to their SMB customers across Europe,” he said.

“With the breadth of human-centric risks only growing, joining Proofpoint is a natural next step in our journey to build the strongest global offering of M365 security services.

“By coming together, we can better serve our partners and customers and extend that protection globally to help MSPs everywhere safeguard their customers’ people, data, and operations.”

Hornetsecurity’s management team will also remain on board.

The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

Sumit Dhawan, CEO of Proofpoint, added: “As attackers grow more sophisticated and people remain the primary target, organisations need security that protects them wherever they work - across email, cloud applications, and every digital channel.

“With the addition of Hornetsecurity, we’re excited to extend our industry-leading, human-centric security platform to better serve the unique needs of MSPs and SMBs.

“We look forward to deepening our investment in the European markets as part of our global growth strategy.”

This announcement comes as Hornetsecurity recently solidified its activities across Europe by investing into French email cybersecurity company Altospam last month.