Proofpoint, Inc., a global leader in cybersecurity and compliance, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Hornetsecurity Group, a prominent pan-European provider of AI-powered Microsoft 365 (M365) security, compliance, and data protection services.

This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in advancing Proofpoint’s mission to deliver human-centric security solutions to businesses of all sizes worldwide, particularly through managed service providers (MSPs) serving small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs).

Proofpoint is a leading cybersecurity and compliance company focused on protecting organizations’ people. Its cloud-based solutions help stop targeted threats, safeguard data, and build cyber resilience. Trusted by 85% of the Fortune 100, Proofpoint mitigates risks across email, cloud, social media, and the web.

Hornetsecurity is a global provider of cloud-based security, compliance, and backup solutions. Its flagship 365 Total Protection is the market’s most comprehensive M365 security platform. Serving over 125,000 customers through 12,000+ channel partners, Hornetsecurity operates in 120+ countries.

The deal combines Proofpoint’s enterprise-grade security expertise, trusted by 85% of the Fortune 100, with Hornetsecurity’s robust MSP ecosystem, which supports over 12,000 channel partners and 125,000 SMBs across Europe.

Hornetsecurity’s flagship offering, 365 Total Protection, is a comprehensive cloud security platform for M365, providing MSPs with tools for email security, backup, access control, and security awareness training. Together, the companies aim to create a powerful, unified platform fueled by shared threat intelligence to address the evolving needs of organizations globally.

“This acquisition strengthens our ability to protect organizations by extending our industry-leading, human-centric security platform to MSPs and SMBs,” said Sumit Dhawan, CEO of Proofpoint. “With cyber threats increasingly targeting people, we’re excited to deepen our investment in Europe and expand our global reach to safeguard businesses of all sizes.”

Hornetsecurity, with over $160 million in annual recurring revenue and more than 20% year-over-year growth, brings a high-performing business to Proofpoint’s portfolio. Its AI-driven solutions and focus on MSPs complement Proofpoint’s enterprise offerings, enabling the combined entity to deliver tailored cybersecurity solutions across market segments.

“Joining Proofpoint is a natural evolution for Hornetsecurity,” said Daniel Hofmann, founder and CEO of Hornetsecurity. “Together, we can scale our M365 security services globally, empowering MSPs to protect their customers’ people, data, and operations.”

The acquisition aligns with the growing importance of securing M365, a critical business platform and a prime target for cyberattacks. Proofpoint’s expanded partnership with Microsoft further supports this mission, leveraging shared threat intelligence and AI to enhance threat detection and mitigation.

Post-acquisition, Proofpoint plans to make Hornetsecurity’s platform available to MSPs worldwide, with Hornetsecurity serving as the central hub for MSP and SMB customers. Hofmann and his management team will continue to lead Hornetsecurity, driving innovation and growth.

The transaction is anticipated to close in the second half of 2025, subject to customary conditions. While financial terms remain undisclosed, Cyber Security News has reportedly learned that the deal is valued at approximately $1 billion.

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