IBM Internet Security Systems - History

History

In 1992, while attending the 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, led 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. About the same time, ISS acquired the company DbSecure, founded by Eric Gonzales and Aaron C. Newman, to add a database security solution to their products. The DbSecure product was rebranded as Database 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 23 August 2006, IBM announced its intention to acquire Internet Security Systems for $1.3 billion. On 16 October 2006, the deal was approved by ISS shareholders.