Rockwell Automation on Wednesday announced that it has entered an agreement to acquire Israel-based cybersecurity solutions provider Avnet Data Security in an effort to expand its cybersecurity expertise.
Founded in 1995, Avnet provides a wide range of services and solutions for IT and OT environments, including penetration testing, assessments, training, and network and security products.
In terms of ICS and SCADA security, Avnet specializes in consultancy, training and research. The company claims to have assisted major utilities and other organizations secure their OT networks.
Rockwell Automation says it has decided to acquire Avnet because its extensive knowledge and experience will support its objective to “achieve double digit growth in Information Solutions and Connected Services by expanding our IT/OT cyber and network expertise globally.”
Frank Kulaszewicz, senior VP of Control Products & Solutions at Rockwell Automation, commented, “Avnet’s combination of service delivery, training, research, and managed services will enable us to service a much larger set of customers globally while also continuing to accelerate our portfolio development in this rapidly developing market.”
Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but Rockwell says it does not expect the acquisition to have a material impact on its 2020 financial results. The acquisition is expected to close in early 2020.
“We are excited to join Rockwell Automation to further expand their already robust cyber offering,” said Igal Cohen, CEO of Avnet. “We are continuing to serve our existing clients while expanding our reach to service a much broader range of customers. Our passion and mission have always been to help as many organizations as possible secure their data from internal and external threats.”
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