Kaspersky signs Computerlinks as Exclusive Networks dropped

Vendor reshuffles UK distribution for end-point security push

Security vendor Kaspersky Lab has appointed Computerlinks and parted ways with Exclusive Networks in a UK distribution rejig.

Talking to CRN, Matthew Robinson, Kaspersky's director of corporate sales, said the reshuffle was driven by the recent launch of Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business – the vendor's attempt to respond to the growth in mobile threats.

Launched on 30 January, the product sees Kaspersky expand from its anti-malware roots to offer functionality such as encryption, mobile device management (MDM) and end-point control tools.

Computerlinks will join Wick Hill in Kaspersky's line-up of UK value distributors after long-time ally Exclusive Networks was served 90 days' notice this morning. Ingram Micro and Entatech continue as broadliners.

"We had a long-term partnership with Exclusive Networks and we are very thankful for their loyal services," said Robinson.

"Having seen Computerlinks operate for many years they are perfectly placed to support us and embrace where we are going."

Robinson admitted that Kaspersky is one of the last big anti-malware vendors to diversify into encryption, data loss prevention and MDM, but stressed it is the only one to do it organically.

"Our competitors such as Symantec, McAfee and Sophos have acquired technology companies to broaden their portfolio," he said.

"We have never done that at Kaspersky as we hold the belief that unless you build it, it is not something we can be comfortable with. It is possible we are late to market, but we have built this on our own operating system so it all speaks to each other. We have one management tool for everything whereas our competitors have individual management tools for each one."