IBM advances security services position, buys ISS

IBM will acquire Atlanta-based Internet Security Systems Inc. (ISS) in an all-cash transaction for about $1.3 billion, or $28 a share. The move is subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter. The acquisition is IBM's fourth in recent weeks, and at $1.

By Staff October 1, 2006

IBM will acquire Atlanta-based Internet Security Systems Inc. (ISS) in an all-cash transaction for about $1.3 billion, or $28 a share.

The move is subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter. The acquisition is IBM’s fourth in recent weeks, and at $1.3 billion is the fifth largest in IBM’s history. ISS will join IBM as a business unit within the IBM Global Services Security organization.

IBM sees the move as an important addition to its security and privacy services business, giving it an automated security platform to offer standardized, enterprise-wide preemptive protection against security threats.

Control Engineering September issue covered IBM’s agreement to buy MRO Software Inc.

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