Secude Full Disk Encryption IP Sold to Novell

SECUDE AG, a data security provider, reaches the agreement to sell SECUDE’s full disk encryption technology to Novell, Inc.

As a result of this transaction, Novell will acquire non-exclusive IP rights to FinallySecure Enterprise HDD encryption source code that has been integrated into Novell’s ZENworks family of products since 2011.

The terms of the agreement are not being disclosed.

ZENworks Full Disk Encryption allows organizations to easily and transparently encrypt users’ HDDs, ranging from USB flash drives to laptops to departmental servers. Integration of SECUDE’s full disk encryption into the ZENworks brand has brought enhanced security to Novell’s endpoint management offerings, making it simple for IT managers to secure, encrypt and centrally manage portable devices for security that doesn’t impact user productivity. With this agreement, Novell will gain full control of the end-to-end process from design to delivery.

“We are pleased to offer our customers the added benefits that this acquisition provides,” said Eric Varness, VP of product management and marketing, Novell. “By taking on complete ownership of this solution, Novell is committed to advancing the ZENworks portfolio and we are excited for what is to come as we continue to evolve and expand our offerings.”

For SECUDE, the agreement is a major step in transitioning its strategy from legacy encryption offerings to emerging Information Rights Management (IRM) technologies. It encrypts information at the source – the single file, allowing only authorized users to access it inside the enterprise and beyond. This approach facilitates secure information sharing between partners (federation) and enables protection of data across the entire lifecycle: at rest, in motion, and in use, while extending security to mobile and cloud platforms.

“This announcement paves the way for continued innovation on the ZENworks platform and on Novell’s roadmap of innovative solutions for many years to come, while allowing SECUDE to focus its resources on strategic business opportunities,” said Dr. Heiner Kromer, SECUDE’s founder and CEO. “We see IRM emerging as the real winner in the race to the secure cloud and perimeter. Our newly released product, Halocore for SAP NetWeaver, is the one-of-a-kind security solution that ingrates IRM protection directly with SAP software. This strategic move puts both companies in the position to be more efficient in building products that deliver unique value to customers.“

SECUDE is trusted by a number of Fortune 500 companies, including many DAX companies, with offices in Europe, North America and Asia.