Microsoft snaps up Komoku

Redmond buys in more security expertise

Microsoft has acquired security firm Komoku and will integrate the newly acquired technology into its Forefront and Windows Live OneCare product line up.

Komoku specialises in products that sniff out root-kits and malicious software that often evades standard anti-malware tools.

Microsoft will kill off the Komoku name and roll the technology into Forefront, the software giant's security platform for Exchange and SharePoint servers.

The rootkit detection tools will also be built into OneCare, Microsoft's virus and spyware scanning package for PC users. OneCare also backs up files and helps with network management.

"Komoku has been a leader in the area of rootkit detection, doing work for ultra security-conscious customers such as the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense," said Ryan Hamlin, general manager of the access and security division for Microsoft's server and tools business.

"Komoku's cutting-edge expertise and technology will add to the robust protection of our anti-malware solutions and help maintain our leading position in anti-malware research and development."

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. However, Microsoft confirmed that it will hire William A. Arbaugh, president and chief technology officer at Komoku, who has spent many years working at the National Security Agency.