Internet security firm Total Defense is to establish a new European operations hub in Dublin which is expected to create up to 100 jobs.

The IDA said 21 people had been recruited for the Ballsbridge operation to date, and that further positions in the areas of inside sales, operations and customer support were yet be filled.

Total Defense is a US-based developer and provider of anti-virus and anti-crimeware software.

Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation Richard Bruton said he was heartened by the positive sentiment towards Ireland by a recent trip to the US.

“With the right moves I am convinced that we can continue to attract companies like Total Defense and create the jobs we so badly need,” he said.

Total Defense president Chris Hickey said the company was impressed by the depth of the talent pool and strength of the software industry in Ireland.