Dell has announced its intention to acquire IT security firm SecureWorks, which offers managed-security services, security and risk consulting services and threat intelligence solutions. Dell says the buy would expand its IT-as-a-Service offerings and information security expertise.

"The frequency and sophistication of attacks on technology infrastructure and malicious attempts to access data, requires reliable, capable and innovative information security," said Peter Altabef, President of Dell Services. "SecureWorks is a recognized industry leader in information security services and its offerings and expertise will immediately enhance our solutions portfolio. We look forward to welcoming SecureWorks team members – who bring their passion and dedication to serving clients with best-in-class security services – to Dell and our clients."

"Dell’s global scale and relationships with clients provides a tremendous opportunity to rapidly expand SecureWorks’ business," added Michael Cote, CEO and Chairman of SecureWorks. "With Dell’s commitment to our clients, our team and our market, I am confident that SecureWorks will flourish as part of the Dell Services organization and that our clients will continue to be well-served and well-protected by the services on which they rely."

Financial terms of the acquisitions were not disclosed, and the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, though it is expected to be close early this year. 

SecureWorks has been around since 1999. It’s based out of Atlanta and has about 700 employees. It’s revenue for Fiscal Year 2010 is projected to be over $120 million.