Siemens inks deal with ID software firm

European electronics giant Siemens is set to announce Tuesday an increased investment and product-integration deal with identity management software maker Oblix.

Under the deal, Oblix will integrate its access management software and Web services security products with Siemens' HiPath Slcurity DirX security products. Siemens will also become a global reseller for Cupertino, Calif.-based Oblix. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Siemens will further strengthen its position as a full-line supplier of security technology by integrating Oblix access management with Siemens' secure identity management and certified smart-care technology," Elmar Rothenwoehrer, Siemens division security president, said in a statement.

Siemens' HiPath offerings include security analysis and consulting, network and system security, smart card-based technology, and identity and access management.

Siemens, which offers identity management products, has been spreading its investment dollars in the security arena of late, recently teaming up with Viisage.

Last month, Siemens and Viisage entered into an agreement to jointly market a 3D image sensor for advanced face-recognition products.

Oblix, meanwhile, will gain access to a global sales and service channel via the Siemens deal, particularly in Europe--an area that is still a fledging market.