Wandera Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

Jamf's acquisition of Wandera marks a significant step in the realm of Apple Enterprise Management. By integrating Wandera's zero trust cloud security solutions, Jamf aims to bolster its platform's security capabilities, addressing the growing demand for robust protection in enterprise environments. This strategic move underscores the importance of advanced security measures in managing Apple devices across organizations.

What Is Wandera?

Founded in 2012, Wandera specializes in mobile security and data management solutions. Its core products include mobile threat defense, data policy enforcement, and zero trust network access. Wandera stands out in the market with its unique approach to zero trust security, ensuring that only authorized users and devices can access corporate resources. This focus on comprehensive mobile security and data management makes Wandera a key player in safeguarding enterprise mobile environments.

Who Acquired Wandera?

Jamf is a leading company in Apple device management and security solutions, serving over 76,600 organizations globally. Their key products include Jamf Pro for business and higher education, Jamf Now for small and medium-sized businesses, and Jamf School for K-12 education. Additionally, they offer Jamf Protect for endpoint security and Jamf Connect for identity and access management. Jamf is recognized as a leader in the industry, trusted by top technology companies, valuable brands, and major U.S. banks.

When Was Wandera Acquired?

Jamf completed its acquisition of Wandera on July 1, 2021. This acquisition came at a time when the demand for zero trust security solutions was surging, driven by the widespread shift to remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The timing also aligns with the increasing adoption of Apple devices in enterprise environments, highlighting the need for enhanced security and management capabilities.

Why Was Wandera Acquired?

• Market Expansion: The acquisition of Wandera allows Jamf to expand its market by enhancing its Apple Enterprise Management platform with advanced cloud security and zero trust network access solutions. This positions Jamf to better serve organizations needing robust security for remote work environments.
• Technology Integration: Wandera's technology, including Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), mobile threat defense, and data policy enforcement, will be integrated into Jamf's existing platform. This integration aims to provide a unified security solution for mobile devices, enhancing Jamf's technology stack.
• Competitive Advantage: By acquiring Wandera, Jamf gains a competitive advantage in the market by offering a unique and comprehensive Apple device management solution that includes advanced zero trust security features. This positions Jamf as a leader in the market, capable of addressing the growing security needs of enterprises, especially in a remote work environment.

Acquisition Terms

• Acquisition Price: The total consideration for the acquisition is $400 million.
• Payment Method: The payment consists of an initial payment of $350 million at closing and deferred consideration of $50 million, to be paid in $25 million increments on October 1, 2021, and December 15, 2021. Jamf plans to finance the acquisition with a combination of cash on hand and debt financing.
• Key Conditions or Agreements: The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including required U.S. regulatory approvals. The companies will continue to operate independently until the transaction closes, which is expected to occur during the third quarter of fiscal year 2021.

Impact on Wandera

The acquisition of Wandera by Jamf has led to significant changes in operations and management. Wandera's cloud security capabilities are now integrated into Jamf's Apple Enterprise Management platform, enhancing its overall security offerings. This integration aims to provide a unified solution for managing and securing Apple devices, particularly in remote work environments. While the companies continue to operate independently until the transaction closes, the leadership teams are optimistic about the synergies and future growth opportunities this acquisition brings.

In terms of product offerings, the acquisition has expanded Jamf's portfolio to include Wandera's Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), mobile threat defense, and data policy enforcement features. This comprehensive security solution is designed to protect mobile workers and ensure compliance with organizational policies. Customer reactions have been positive, with testimonials highlighting the benefits of a more secure and efficient hybrid work environment. Although specific employee reactions are not detailed, the overall sentiment suggests a positive outlook on the integration.

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