Microsoft Considers Pursuing a Deal for Cybersecurity Firm Mandiant

Microsoft Corp. is in talks to acquire cybersecurity research and incident response company Mandiant Inc., according to people familiar with the discussions, a deal that would bolster efforts to protect customers from hacks and breaches.

The deliberations may not result in an offer, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the talks are private. Mandiant and Microsoft declined to comment. Mandiant shares surged 18% in New York, bringing its market value to almost $4.3 billion. Microsoft stock gained 1.2% to $304.56.