Case | HBS Case Collection | 2010 (Revised from original 2006 version)

Symantec vs. McAfee: Competing in the Consumer Anti-virus Industry

by Ramon Casadesus-Masanell and Jordan Mitchell

Abstract

Symantec and McAfee hold 53.6% and 18.8% respectively, of the anti-virus software market as of 2006. While the market is concentrated with five firms controlling over 90%, Microsoft is on the eve of releasing a consumer security subscription packed called OneCare Live. Other changes in the industry are also afoot--McAfee has switched its focus to distribute antivirus subscriptions through Internet Service Providers.

Keywords: Business Model; Market Entry and Exit; Competitive Strategy; Software; Information Technology Industry;

Format: Print

27 pages

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Citation:

Casadesus-Masanell, Ramon, and Jordan Mitchell. "Symantec vs. McAfee: Competing in the Consumer Anti-virus Industry." Harvard Business School Case 707-413, March 2010. (Revised from original July 2006 version.)

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