Three web-generations ago, when the word “website” was new, and the familiar words “virus” and “Trojan” gained new meaning in the digital world, an unlikely partnership formed between 18-year-old Justin Stanford and 50-year-old businessman, Erik van Vlaanderen. This partnership led them to create the information security company, 4D Digital Security (4DDS) in 2002, which was the starting point and reason for ESET Southern Africa existing today. Together they went on to change South Africa’s digital security landscape and put the nation on the global cybersecurity map.
This year, ESET Southern Africa celebrates 20 years of leading the cybersecurity industry in South Africa, offering product solutions to businesses of all sizes, whether consumer or enterprise. Since their inception, the journey to becoming a cybersecurity powerhouse mirrors the rapid evolution of the South African tech industry.
Through a cold call to San Diego in 2003, 4DDS secured the distribution rights for NOD32; the innovative antivirus software developed in Slovakia. South Africa, having not been pinned on NOD32’s global map until then, was about to become a key player in the international cybersecurity arena. 4DDS later transformed into the multifaceted 4Di Group known as ESET Southern Africa.
In 2004, they would go on to surpass their sales targets and increase their year-on-year sales by 300%. Under the leadership of Carey van Vlaanderen as CEO, ESET Southern Africa has reached 23 African countries to date, making it a continental leader in cybersecurity software.
As South Africa’s digital ecosystem matured, so did ESET Southern Africa. Recognising the importance of collaboration in achieving their mission to protect the early stages of the nation’s digital era, they emphasise building strong relationships with their partners and celebrating their milestones. Through their annual ESET Partner Awards they continue to honour those who consistently deliver digital safety to the people of South Africa.
“As proud partners, we are excited to deepen our knowledge about the brand and its offerings. This invaluable insight will help us present our customers with the very best products and services,” said Thami Mncube, Founder and CEO of Eyotech Systems, an ESET Southern Africa partner who recently won gold in the Newcomer Sales Champion category.
In celebration of Heritage Month, the contributions of the South Africans who have worked tirelessly to ensure the nation’s digital safety are acknowledged. ESET Southern Africa has played a major role in shaping South Africa’s digital future, ensuring that the nation’s rich heritage can be preserved, protected, and celebrated for generations to come. From a garage to a cybersecurity titan, ESET’s journey personifies the spirit of African entrepreneurship and the country’s growing influence in the global tech space. ESET will continue to protect the nation’s progress.
“It has been incredible being part of creating a company that has educated and grown people alongside the fast-changing landscape of cybersecurity over the last 20 years. We are so proud to be celebrating the legacy of our family-style South African business alongside the diverse heritage we cherish in South Africa.” – Carey van Vlaanderen, CEO of ESET Southern Africa.
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