Check Point, Broadcom Work on Security Chips

Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., whose software protects computer networks from hacker attacks, said it’s working with Irvine chip maker Broadcom Corp. to develop chips that speed the flow of secure Internet transmissions.

Security software can bog down Web traffic by taxing computers, which have to scramble and then decode information to keep the data private. Check Point and Broadcom are developing semiconductors that perform security functions faster.

Broadcom is looking to boost sales of chips with security functions to supplement products for network switches and cable modems. The first Check Point-Broadcom chips will be available next month and cost about $1,000.

Selling the chips could help Check Point get more revenue from about 55,000 corporate customers that have bought the Israel-based company’s virtual private network software. That program lets companies move information from customers and employees across a secure Internet link. Check Point also is working with Broadcom rival Intel Corp. on a similar alliance.