Intel’s computer-security unit McAfee is drawing interest from private equity companies as Intel mulls selling the business that it bought in 2010 for $7.7 billion (A$10 billion).

Thoma Bravo, Permira and Vista Equity Partners are among a number of equity companies currently looking at McAfee in the event of a sale.

While Intel has held discussions with several banks about an auction of the unit, none has yet been hired and Intel may still choose to keep McAfee.

The Financial Times reported last month that Intel is “weighing options” for the business.