Microsoft aquires Komoku-leading edge rootkit detection provider

By Janine de Blois

Microsoft has aquired Komoku, a Maryland based, veteran owned and operated small business in high technology. Microsoft will be utilizing this technology in upcoming versions of its Forefront line of security products and Windows Live OneCare. Ryan Hamlin, general manager, Access and Security Division, Server and Tools Business at Microsoft said, “Komoku has been a leader in the area of rootkit detection, doing work for ultra security-conscious customers such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Defense (DOD). Komoku’s cutting-edge expertise and technology will benefit our customers by adding to the robust protection of our anti-malware solutions and help maintain our leading position in anti-malware research and development.” Komoko’s high-security customers have also included the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and the U.S. Navy.

“I’m excited about the Komoku team joining Microsoft and building on our successes in detecting sophisticated rootkits for customers, said veteran William A. Arbaugh, who is co-founder, president and CTO of Komoku as well as an associate professor of computer science at the University of Maryland and a renowned expert on rootkits. “Microsoft’s commitment to building the next generation of malware detection is very strong, and we at Komoku look forward to continuing the tremendous progress Microsoft has already made in the anti-malware space and building the anti-malware products that can handle today’s sophisticated threats.” The Komoko name will gradually be retired.