Netsurion, EventTracker merge, aim to bolster SMBs against complex cyberattacks
Netsurion and EventTracker, two security companies, are merging in a move that aims to bring more enterprise-grade cybersecurity defenses to small and mid-sized businesses.
The two companies focus on different niches. Netsurion offers managed security services for distributed networks and multiple locations. EventTracker focuses on security information and event management (SIEM) tools.
Terms of the deal weren't disclosed. A unit of Providence Equity Partners, which owns Netsurion, will invest in the combined company. The plan is to operate both brands independently with current leadership.
Kevin Watson, CEO of Netsurion, said there's little overlap between the companies, but "a lot of complementary opportunities".
For instance, Watson said that Netsurion could deliver EventTracker's tools via its managed service approach. Netsurion has customers such as Burger King and Dairy Queen and offers everything from managed firewalls and wireless access points to secure credit card processing.
What has been missing for these small distributed companies has been SIEM to counter advanced attacks.
EventTracker takes logs and other information to find anomalies.
"We can get SIEM to the edge and help smaller companies match the security of an enterprise," said Watson. "Large businesses have large IT departments. SMBs have one or two people supporting anywhere from two to 50 franchised stores. A fully managed service can help."
Watson said that SIEM management tools could be delivered remotely. The move may be overdue since the complexity of security attacks is changing for the worse, he said.