3Com Exec to Depart

3Com

(COMS)

says chief Bruce Claflin will step aside when a replacement is found.

The Marlborough, Mass., computer networking shop called the move a planned succession and has begun a search for a new CEO. Claflin has agreed to stay on for half a year after his successor takes the job, to help with the transition.

Chairman Eric Benhamou praised Claflin in a press release.

"Bruce established 3Com as a leader in a high-growth market for network security through the TippingPoint acquisition," he noted. "Moving forward, the 3Com board intends to recruit a CEO who can build on the positive trends of the past few quarters as we continue to execute our strategy and drive 3Com toward profitable growth."

3Com shares closed down 7 cents at $4.06 Wednesday.