(WEB HOST INDUSTRY REVIEW) — Telecommunications provider AT&T (www.att.com) has signed an agreement to acquire VeriSign’s (www.verisign.com) security consulting business. The financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
VeriSign’s global security consulting operations will be matched alongside AT&T’s existing portfolio of network-based cybersecurity services.
The sale of the security consulting business is the last of the 13 non-core businesses that VeriSign was trying to sell off over the last two years in an effort to focus on Internet infrastructure, domain registry, online security, and identity protection.
In August, Verisign sold its messaging business to mobile services provider Syniverse Holdings for $175 million, and in May, the company sold its managed security services arm to IT security solutions provider SecureWorks.
AT&T says it has been developing cyber security services and capabilities for a while.
The company’s AT&T Labs and its cybersecurity organization have been working together to provide enterprise services and technology.
VeriSign’s Global Security Consulting Services business instructs multinational companies on corporate security requirements and navigate different regulations.
The business also helps identify security vulnerabilities, defend against attacks, reduce risk and meet business and industry security compliance requirements.
“AT&T is a recognized leader who we believe will facilitate a smooth transition for customers and partners while presenting the most promising opportunities for our employees,” says Mark McLaughlin, president and CEO at VeriSign.
McLaughlin says the sale will help VeriSign fulfill its divestiture goals while aligning with buyers with complementary strengths.
