Symantec To Acquire Gideon Technologies

Symantec has signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Gideon Technologies, a provider of standards-based information security solutions that automate and orchestrate IT security and risk management. Symantec is acquiring Gideon Technologies to extend Symantec’s security portfolio with a Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) validated configuration and vulnerability assessment solution and to enhance its ability to serve the needs of public sector customers. The transaction is expected to close by the end of the March quarter and is subject to customary closing conditions. The financial terms of the acquisition are not being disclosed.

SCAP is a suite of specifications that standardise the format and nomenclature by which security software products communicate software flaw and security configuration information. It is used to automate vulnerability and patch checking, technical control compliance activities and security measurement.

Gigi Schumm, Vice President & General Manager-public sector, Symantec, said, "As demonstrated by this acquisition, Symantec is committed to SCAP and emerging standards and intends to lead the ongoing advancement of these standards."

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The acquisition of Gideon Technologies’ SecureFusion product will complement Symantec’s compliance offerings and integrate with the Symantec Management Platform (formerly the Altiris platform). The addition of SecureFusion will help Symantec provide customers with one of a comprehensive automated situational awareness, continuous compliance and remediation management capabilities in the marketplace.