Zscaler, a leader in cloud security, announced its intent to acquire Airgap Networks, a firm in cybersecurity solutions for business-critical networks.
Zscaler is renowned for its comprehensive security platforms that integrate Zero Trust policies with software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN). Airgap Networks specialises in agentless segmentation technology that significantly advances cybersecurity measures across various infrastructures.
Zscaler aims to broaden its Zero Trust Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) framework by incorporating Airgap Networks’ unique agentless segmentation technology. This acquisition will transform enterprise security approaches to Internet of Things (IoT) and Operational Technology (OT) devices, alongside critical infrastructure in branches and data centers. The financial terms of the deal, while not disclosed, underscore the strategic importance of Airgap Networks’ solutions in enhancing Zscaler’s existing security capabilities.
Zscaler operates as a global leader in cloud-based security, serving to securely connect users to their applications from any device and location. The company’s flagship Zero Trust SD-WAN solutions are critical in ensuring secure and direct internet connections, bypassing traditional network architectures. On the other hand, Airgap Networks focuses on eliminating lateral threat movements within networks through its novel DHCP proxy architecture that isolates devices and controls access dynamically, based on identity and context.
The integration of Airgap Networks’ technology with Zscaler’s offerings is expected to eliminate the need for traditional Network Access Control (NAC) and east-west firewalls, which are not equipped to handle modern cyber threats. Airgap’s technology enforces Zero Trust principles directly on LAN traffic and provides real-time device discovery and inline enforcement, acting as a ransomware kill switch.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Zscaler’s expansion strategy, strengthening its leadership in the SASE market. The move is set to disrupt conventional security paradigms by replacing outdated security measures with advanced, identity-centric technologies. This strategic expansion not only enhances Zscaler’s product suite but also solidifies its position at the forefront of the cybersecurity industry.
Zscaler Vice President and General Manager of Product Management Naresh Kumar said, “Together, Zscaler and Airgap Networks have the opportunity to reimagine every aspect of how traditional solutions have approached security in campus and data center environments, particularly east-west. Zscaler is doubling down on SASE with significant innovation around Zero Trust Networking, disrupting SD-WAN, NAC, and firewall-based security for east-west and OT networks.”
Copyright © 2024 RegTech Analyst
Copyright © 2018 RegTech Analyst
