Proofpoint, the cybersecurity and compliance player, is acquiring Hornetsecurity Group, the pan-European Microsoft 365 (M365) security, data protection, compliance, and security awareness services firm.
The acquisition is said to significantly enhance Proofpoint’s ability to provide "human-centric" security to small- and mid-sized businesses globally through managed service providers.
"By combining Proofpoint’s global leadership with Hornetsecurity’s deep expertise in the MSP ecosystem, the two companies will advance their shared mission to protect organisations of all sizes," said Proofpoint.
Hornetsecurity brings a 'high-performing" business into the Proofpoint portfolio, with over $160m in annual recurring revenue (ARR), and more than 20% year-over-year growth.
Hornetsecurity provides solutions to over 12,000 channel partners and MSPs, and more than 125,000 SMBs across Europe, while Proofpoint says it is trusted by 85% of the Fortune 100 and over half of the Fortune 1000.
“As attackers grow more sophisticated and people remain the primary target, organisations need security that protects them wherever they work, across email, cloud applications, and every digital channel,” said Sumit Dhawan, CEO of Proofpoint. “With the addition of Hornetsecurity, we’re excited to extend our industry-leading, human-centric security platform to better serve the unique needs of MSPs and SMBs. We look forward to deepening our investment in the European markets as part of our global growth strategy.”
“Hornetsecurity’s AI-powered security platform enables thousands of MSPs to deliver enterprise-grade protection to their SMB customers across Europe,” said Daniel Hofmann, founder and CEO of Hornetsecurity. “With the breadth of human-centric risks only growing, joining Proofpoint is a natural next step in our journey to build the strongest global offering of M365 security services. By coming together, we can better serve our partners and customers and extend that protection globally to help MSPs everywhere safeguard their customers’ people, data, and operations.”
Upon closing, Proofpoint intends to leverage its global reach to make the Hornetsecurity platform available for MSPs and their customers worldwide. Hornetsecurity will serve as the central hub for all MSP and SMB customers within the group.
Hornetsecurity's Hofmann will remain at the helm of the company, continuing to drive its strategic growth. The management team will also remain on board.
The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, is expected to close in the second half of 2025.
