IBM Internet Security Systems is a security software provider which was founded in 1994 as Internet Security Systems, and is often known simply as ISS or ISSX (after its former NASDAQ ticker symbol). The company was acquired by IBM in 2006.

History

In 1992, while attending Georgia Institute of Technology, Christopher Klaus developed the first version of Internet Scanner. In 1994, Chris Klaus founded ISS to further develop and market Internet Scanner. Although the larger shareholder, Chris Klaus took the role of Chief Technology Officer, whilst Tom Noonan was recruited as Chief Executive Officer in 1995. In 1996 Bob Davoli, from Sigma Partners, lead the first round of venture capital investment in ISS. The initial public offering of the company on NASDAQ was on March 23, 1998.

Further products in security software space followed, including Network Sensor and Server Sensor which were both developed in-house. In 1998, ISS acquired the UK company March Information Systems, and rebranded their Security Manager product as System Scanner. Subsequently ISS acquired Network ICE and integrated their BlackICE technology into the ISS product range.

In 2004 Chris Klaus stepped down from his role of Chief Technology Officer to pursue other interests, although he remained a significant shareholder and a role as the company's Chief Security Advisor. His role as Chief Technology Officer was taken by Chris Rouland.

On August 23, 2006, IBM announced its intention to acquire Internet Security Systems for $1.3 billion. On October 16, 2006, the deal was approved by ISS shareholders.

Products

Current and former product families of ISS include:

BlackICE

Internet Scanner

Network Sensor

Proventia

RealSecure

Secure Log Manager

Server Sensor

Site Protector

System Scanner

Location

IBM Internet Security Systems is headquartered in Sandy Springs, near Atlanta (Georgia, USA). Until late 2003 the company had significant development activities in Mountain View (California, USA), Reading (UK) and Sydney (Australia), but all development has since been relocated to Atlanta. The company also maintains sales offices worldwide.