Symantec merger with Axent Technologies approved by shareholders

Merger creates global leader in enterprise security solutions

Hong Kong -- December 19, 2000 - Symantec Corp. (Nasdaq: SYMC) today announced that shareholders of both Symantec and AXENT Technologies voted and approved the merger of the two companies in a stock-for-stock deal that was originally announced on July 27, 2000. The merger will be completed when the filing of the merger certificate in Delaware becomes effective. Under the agreement, AXENT shareholders will receive, in a tax-free exchange, 0.50 shares of Symantec common stock for each share of AXENT common stock they own. Historical pro-forma financials on the combined company will be posted at http://ir.thomsonfn.com/InvestorRelations/PubCorporateOverview.aspx?partner=9918.

"The Internet and private networks are essential tools for all businesses, and standalone security products are no longer sufficient to prevent sophisticated intrusion and virus attacks," said John W. Thompson, chairman, president and CEO of Symantec. "Enterprise customers are seeking best-of-breed security products that work well together, work well with products from other security vendors and are supported by integration services. This merger catapults Symantec to a market leadership position and allows us to deliver to customers enterprise-class products and support, a global network of certified partners and a full range of security services."

Symantec's product offerings now include market-leading virus protection, firewall, intrusion detection and vulnerability management solutions. The company's services offerings include security education and training, security assessment, technology implementation and managed security services. Forty-five of the top 50 U.S. corporations are currently using one or a combination of products supplied by both Symantec and AXENT. The expected revenue stream for the new company will make it the largest Internet security company in the industry.

About Symantec
Symantec, a world leader in Internet security technology, provides a broad range of content security solutions to individuals and companies. The company is a leading provider of anti-virus protection, Internet content and e-mail filtering, and mobile code detection technologies to enterprise customers. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Symantec has worldwide operations in more than 33 countries.

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Brands and products referred to in this release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

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Brands and product names are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

Issued on behalf of Symantec Corporation by Newell Public Relations