SafeBoot

Encryption software and management systems
Invested in
2005
Status

Acquired by McAfee 2007

Location
Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
Sector
Technology
Sector
Technology
Website

“When Summit invested in our business, we were immediately perceived as a more substantial company. Customers, vendors, potential partners, and acquisition candidates all viewed us more positively, simply because a firm of Summit’s caliber had confidence in us.”

Gerhard Watzinger
Former CEO
|
SafeBoot
2x

Nearly doubled EBITDA in 2 years of Summit's investment

5 million

Users, expanding from 2 million at the time of Summit’s investment

4,200+

Corporate customers

$350 million

Acquired by McAfee in 2007

2x

Nearly doubled EBITDA in 2 years of Summit's investment

5 million

Users, expanding from 2 million at the time of Summit’s investment

4,200+

Corporate customers

$350 million

Acquired by McAfee in 2007

SafeBoot was launched to address the growing demand from corporations for encryption software and management systems on laptops and other mobile data security applications. By 2005, the company had grown to serve an extensive list of Fortune 1000 clients, and its management team saw tremendous potential for further growth as information security had become a top corporate priority.

How Summit Partners Helped

  • Led a majority recapitalization to retire early investors
  • Worked closely with the CEO to build-out the sales force, which resulted in a meaningful increase in the already high organic growth rate of the business
  • Worked with management to help upgrade systems and reporting to public company levels
  • Helped recruit former CIO of the Central Intelligence Agency to the board
  • Assisted in preparing company for an IPO, and supported negotiations with strategic acquirer McAfee

By 2007, SafeBoot had become a leading mobile data security provider with 5 million users in more than 75 countries, and the company began preparing for an IPO. While paperwork was being filed, McAfee offered to acquire SafeBoot for $350 million. In November of that year, the acquisition was completed and SafeBoot became the cornerstone of McAfee’s Data Protection Product Business Unit helping deliver continued strong growth.

The Portfolio Company Executive quoted herein did not receive compensation for any statements regarding Summit Partners. However, since SafeBoot is a former portfolio company of Summit, this individual did receive general compensation in connection with his employment by the company. In addition, this individual is an investor in a Summit fund and may have conflicts arising from his past role with SafeBoot due to the company’s relationship with Summit.

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