Guide Note

Symantec is a worldwide leader in computer software development. They are primarily focused on security and information management software, and produce the popular Norton Anti-Virus series. They also publish information management software which manages network security, data backup, and other similar tasks.

Fast Facts

1. Stock symbol: SYMC
2. Annual revenue (2007): $5.19 billion
3. Founders
4. Year established: 1982
5. Industry: Computer software
6. Phone: 408-517-8000
7. Fax: 408-252-4694
8. Headquarters: Cupertino, California
9. CEO: John W. Thompson
10. CFO: James Beer
11. Staff size: 17,000+
12. Products: Norton Anti-Virus, Norton Personal Firewall, Norton Internet Security

Key Dates

• 1982: Symantec is founded in Cupertino, California

• 1985: Releases Q & A, a computer program that combined database and word processing abilities

• 1990: Symantec releases the first version of Norton Anti-Virus

• July 5, 2005: Merges with Veritas, a successful information management software developer

• August 16, 2005: Acquires Sygate, a security software developer

• November 30, 2005: All Sygate's previous products are incorporated into Norton Personal Firewall