Proofpoint, Inc., a global leader in cybersecurity and compliance, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Hornetsecurity Group, a prominent European provider of AI-powered Microsoft 365 (M365) security, compliance, and data protection services. This strategic acquisition, valued at approximately $1 billion, 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’s Background
Founded in 2002, Proofpoint has established itself as 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. In 2021, the company was acquired by private equity firm Thoma Bravo for $12.3 billion, further solidifying its position in the cybersecurity sector.
Hornetsecurity’s Profile
Hornetsecurity, headquartered in Hannover, Germany, is a global provider of cloud-based security, compliance, and backup solutions. Its flagship product, 365 Total Protection, is the market’s most comprehensive M365 security platform. Serving over 125,000 customers through more than 12,000 channel partners, Hornetsecurity operates in over 120 countries. The company has demonstrated consistent growth, with over $160 million in annual recurring revenue and more than 20% year-over-year growth.
Strategic Synergies
The acquisition combines Proofpoint’s enterprise-grade security expertise with Hornetsecurity’s robust MSP ecosystem. Hornetsecurity’s focus on MSPs complements Proofpoint’s enterprise offerings, enabling the combined entity to deliver tailored cybersecurity solutions across market segments. This partnership aims to create a powerful, unified platform fueled by shared threat intelligence to address the evolving needs of organizations globally.
Sumit Dhawan, CEO of Proofpoint, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition:
“This acquisition strengthens our ability to protect organizations by extending our industry-leading, human-centric security platform to MSPs and SMBs. 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.”
Daniel Hofmann, founder and CEO of Hornetsecurity, echoed this sentiment:
“Joining Proofpoint is a natural evolution for Hornetsecurity. Together, we can scale our M365 security services globally, empowering MSPs to protect their customers’ people, data, and operations.”
Enhancing Microsoft 365 Security
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. Hornetsecurity’s 365 Total Protection offers comprehensive security features, including email security, backup, access control, and security awareness training, making it a valuable addition to Proofpoint’s portfolio.
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The cybersecurity landscape has seen a surge in mergers and acquisitions as companies strive to offer comprehensive solutions to combat evolving threats. Proofpoint’s acquisition of Hornetsecurity is a testament to this trend, aiming to provide enhanced security solutions to a broader customer base. The deal is anticipated to close in the second half of 2025, subject to customary conditions. 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.
This acquisition not only strengthens Proofpoint’s position in the cybersecurity market but also underscores the critical importance of securing cloud-based platforms like Microsoft 365. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the combined expertise of Proofpoint and Hornetsecurity is poised to offer robust protection to organizations worldwide.
