In a significant move to bolster its cloud security offerings, Fortinet has announced the acquisition of cloud security company Lacework. This acquisition, aimed at integrating Lacework’s advanced AI and machine learning technologies into Fortinet’s secure access service edge (SASE) and Security Fabric packages, marks a strategic expansion of Fortinet’s capabilities in managing and securing cloud workflows.
The Acquisition: Integrating Lacework’s Advanced Technologies
Founded in 2015, Lacework has established itself as a leader in cloud-based machine learning, AI, and automation technologies. These technologies enable customers to manage and secure their cloud workflows by identifying abnormal or uncharacteristic activities that could signal critical security issues.
Key Features of Lacework’s Technology:
- AI and Machine Learning: Patented technologies for enhanced threat detection and remediation.
- Agent and Agentless Architecture: Flexible data collection methods.
- Homegrown Data Lake: Robust data storage and analysis capabilities.
- Code Security Offering: Integration with Cloud-Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) services for comprehensive cloud security.
John Maddison, Fortinet’s Chief Marketing Officer, highlighted the acquisition in a blog post, stating that Lacework’s technology will be integrated with Fortinet’s firewall and Web Application and API Protection (WAAP) capabilities. This integration aims to provide customers with advanced tools to identify, prioritize, and remediate risks in complex cloud-native infrastructures.
Strategic Implications: Strengthening Cloud-Native Protection
The acquisition of Lacework is part of Fortinet’s broader strategy to enhance its cloud security portfolio. By integrating Lacework’s technology, Fortinet aims to provide a more comprehensive security solution that protects both the internal workings of cloud applications and their interactions with the external environment.
Benefits for Fortinet Customers:
- Enhanced Threat Detection: Leveraging AI and ML for more accurate threat identification.
- Improved Risk Management: Prioritizing and addressing security risks effectively.
- Comprehensive Security Solutions: Protecting cloud-native applications from code to cloud.
Industry Context: A Fragmented Cloud Workload Protection Platform Ecosystem
The cloud workload protection platform (CWPP) market is highly fragmented, with over 50 vendors competing globally, including major players like Palo Alto, Microsoft, Broadcom/VMware Carbon Black, Wiz, and Check Point. A recent report by Frost & Sullivan highlighted the trend towards consolidation in this space, predicting further acquisitions and mergers.
Key Insights from Frost & Sullivan:
- Market Fragmentation: Diverse range of vendors in the CWPP space.
- Consolidation Trend: Expected increase in mergers and acquisitions.
- Comprehensive Solutions: Larger vendors providing more robust security options.
Closing Timeline and Future Prospects
The Fortinet/Lacework transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024. As the cloud security landscape continues to evolve, this acquisition positions Fortinet to offer more integrated and powerful security solutions to meet the growing demands of its enterprise customers.
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Fortinet‘s Commitment to Cloud Security Innovation
The acquisition of Lacework underscores Fortinet‘s commitment to enhancing its cloud security capabilities through strategic investments and integrations. By leveraging Lacework’s advanced AI and machine learning technologies, Fortinet aims to provide its customers with robust and comprehensive security solutions. For more information on how Fortinet’s solutions can enhance your cloud security strategy, visit Router-switch.com.
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