Symantec buys into IM

Symantec has kicked off the new year by adding to its security portfolio with the acquisition of instant messaging (IM) software specialist IMlogic.

IMlogic’s systems are designed to control and secure IM networks in line with regulatory and corporate governance policies. Enrique Salem, senior vice-president at Symantec, said the purchase will let the company offer a complete security and archiving solution to help customers manage all their messaging requirements.

Before the announcement, Symantec and IMlogic had already partnered to deliver joint solutions to protect IM from online threats and malware, and spam delivered over IM. Following the acquisition, Symantec plans to integrate IMlogic’s threat detection capabilities into its own early warning and response system.

Andy Kellett of analyst firm Butler Group said that the acquisition will let Symantec offer enterprise customers a more rounded security system.

“IM was looking like an obvious hole in the portfolio – not just of Symantec, but of other large mainstream security vendors,” Kellett said. “It’s an area of technology well-known to be difficult to control and block. With IMlogic, Symantec has acquired IM and peer-to-peer capabilities, key shortfall areas for most of the traditional security players.”

The purchase follows other recent acquisitions by Symantec, including storage firm Veritas and anti-spam specialist Brightmail.