Latest news with #SecureAccessServiceEdge
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
FTNT's Unified SASE Strategy Drives Growth: Hold or Fold the Stock?
Fortinet FTNT is strengthening its enterprise cybersecurity position through a unified Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) strategy that combines next-generation firewall, SD-WAN, secure web gateway and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) into a single OS, FortiOS. This helps organizations streamline security while cutting complexity and costs. Fortinet also offers sovereign SASE solutions for regulated to Fortinet, the typical SASE journey starts with FortiGate firewalls, then expands to SD-WAN and FortiSASE. By the first quarter of 2025, 73% of large enterprises had adopted Fortinet's SD-WAN, while FortiSASE penetration rose to 11%, up nearly 10 points the first quarter, unified SASE billings grew 18% year over year, representing 25% of total billings. Fortinet cited strong momentum across industries, with several major wins displacing incumbent SASE vendors due to better performance, integration and cost investors should take a closer look at what is working in Fortinet's favor and what is holding it back, explaining why FTNT stock is a hold for now. Let's delve deeper into the company's fundamentals. Fortinet is strengthening its unified SASE architecture with cloud-native solutions to secure hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Updates to FortiCNAPP and the launch of services like FortiAppSec Cloud, FortiMail Workspace Security, FortiNDR Cloud, FortiSIEM and Incident Response on AWS Marketplace support its cloud-first strategy. Enhancements to FortiMail and FortiDLP expand protection to browsers and collaboration apps, which are key parts of the Secure Web Gateway and DLP in SASE. These AI-driven, fabric-integrated upgrades will help drive FTNT's revenues in the near term. The cybersecurity market is extremely competitive and characterized by rapid technological change. Among others, Fortinet's competitors include Palo Alto Networks PANW, Zscaler ZS and CrowdStrike CRWD. Palo Alto Networks has driven growth through strategic partnerships, including an expanded alliance with VMware and collaborations with Aruba Networks and others under its NextWave program. Zscaler has grown via acquisitions like Airgap Networks and Avalor, strengthening its Zero Trust and threat prediction tools. CrowdStrike continues to expand its Falcon platform, now with 29 modules, including Falcon Data Protection and AI-powered XDR features. These aggressive moves by key rivals highlight the intense competition Fortinet faces in maintaining its market share and growth momentum. Fortinet shares have gained 9.8% in the year-to-date (YTD) period, underperforming the Zacks Security industry's growth of 23.8%, but outperforming the Zacks Computer and Technology sector's return of 4.5%.Fortinet's underperformance compared with the industry is driven by rising competitive pressure in the fast-growing cybersecurity space. While progress in AI and SASE offers support, customer hesitancy and macro uncertainties have weighed on investor of Palo Alto Networks, Zscaler and CrowdStrike have returned 12.4%, 73.1% and 44%, respectively, YTD. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Fortinet's valuation may be a concern for some investors. The stock is trading at a significant premium compared to the broader Zacks Security industry. As of the latest data, FTNT's Price/Book ratio hovers around 40.40, well above the industry's 24.95. The Value Score of F further reinforces a stretched valuation for Fortinet at this moment. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Fortinet expects revenues for the second quarter of 2025 in the range of $1.59 billion to $1.65 billion, which suggests growth of 13% at the midpoint. It anticipates non-GAAP earnings per share in the band of 58-60 cents. Fortinet maintained a cautious outlook for the second quarter, citing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties. While close rates and sales trends remained solid, sales teams were hesitant to raise expectations. The company also noted customer hesitancy in finalizing purchases, prompting a prudent approach to guidance despite steady demand. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter 2025 revenues is pegged at $1.62 billion, suggesting 12.94% year-over-year growth. The consensus mark for second-quarter 2025 earnings is pegged at 59 cents per share, which has remained steady over the past 30 days, indicating 3.51% year-over-year growth. Fortinet's earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, with the average surprise being 23.83%. Fortinet, Inc. price-consensus-chart | Fortinet, Inc. Quote Fortinet's strong SASE growth, new cloud-based offerings and expanding customer base show that the company is moving in the right direction. However, tough competition, premium valuation and cautious guidance suggest that the stock may not see major gains in the near term. While its long-term prospects remain solid, the stock has underperformed compared to the industry and faces clear headwinds due to macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties. For now, it makes sense for investors to hold their position and wait for clearer signals before considering fresh currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Fortinet, Inc. (FTNT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (PANW) : Free Stock Analysis Report Zscaler, Inc. (ZS) : Free Stock Analysis Report CrowdStrike (CRWD) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research


Techday NZ
6 days ago
- Business
- Techday NZ
BackBox 8.0 automates hybrid network security & compliance
BackBox has announced the release of BackBox 8.0, a platform designed to unify and automate cyber resilience management for networks combining on-premise and cloud-based infrastructure. The update addresses ongoing challenges faced by enterprises as they balance traditional hardware with cloud-managed systems, especially with the increasing adoption of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) environments. The complexity of these hybrid networks, coupled with the use of multiple management tools, often hinders comprehensive visibility and coordination of security processes across organisations. BackBox 8.0 is positioned as a response to these trends, providing a single dashboard that allows organisations to oversee and control security measures, compliance requirements, and device lifecycle management for both on-premise and cloud-managed network assets. Unified network overview The update delivers a new platform home page that offers a complete overview of an organisation's cyber resilience across three principal areas: Automated Lifecycle Management, Configuration Compliance and Policy Management, and Network Infrastructure Integrity. This interface grants immediate insights into whether a network aligns with established best practices and security policies, which is intended to support more proactive risk management strategies. "Network cyber resilience is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It is a complex issue, and each organization begins from a different starting point, with its unique vendors, tools, and progress made," said Rekha Shenoy, CEO of BackBox. "BackBox 8.0 is designed to accommodate this reality by providing a unified view of your modern network infrastructure, seamlessly integrating on-prem and cloud-managed elements. This enables enhanced network security, compliance, and lifecycle management automation, bolstering your organization's overall cyber resilience." Automation and compliance BackBox 8.0 introduces several features that automate manual processes in network management. Device Lifecycle Governance enables teams to define stages such as Staging, Active, Maintenance, Ignored, and Orphaned for any device, supporting compliance verifications and licence management throughout its lifespan. The update also enhances support for Meraki device management, addressing the shift within enterprises toward cloud-managed networks. According to BackBox, 33% of enterprises are deploying or will deploy SASE technology within the next 24 months, despite previous investments in hardware that typically have a lifespan of four to seven years. The new Meraki capabilities allow for scheduled imports into a staging environment for compliance checks, identification of orphaned devices, and ongoing validation against both industry and custom security policies. The platform additionally checks for configuration vulnerabilities and provides guidance on potential workarounds. Another area of expansion is Network Infrastructure Integrity. The new platform includes CVE Workaround Insights, informing administrators of available configuration adjustments that can mitigate risks without immediate patching or upgrades. BackBox cited data indicating 40,009 Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) were recorded in 2024 - a 38% increase from the previous year - alongside a 34% increase in attacker exploitation of vulnerabilities for initial access. Regulatory support and reporting With regulatory demands such as DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) influencing network management, BackBox 8.0 enables users to create device inventory and configuration comparison reports across different dates, simplifying audit and compliance processes. Organisations can also assess compliance status for every device, with instant indications if a device passes, fails, or remains unchecked. The company stated that 67% of enterprise networking activities are currently done manually, a figure associated with lower incident response and change management performance. By automating these processes, the platform aims to reduce manual intervention and bolster adherence to organisational and regulatory standards. Scott Nursten, CEO of ITHQ, said, "We have always been focused on ensuring that the businesses we serve remain resilient. BackBox delivers greater visibility into on-prem and cloud-managed/SASE devices, which in turn delivers confidence that all devices are up-to-date and secure. Its reliable, automated backups, patches, and compliance checks take care of many tasks that were once manual, allowing us to stay focused on the bigger picture of protecting our customers." BackBox 8.0 will be available from July and supports network devices from over 180 vendors, offering pre-built automations as well as the ability to create new ones without code.


Techday NZ
17-06-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise & Versa boost secure network access
Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise has expanded its partnership with Versa to enhance cybersecurity solutions for enterprise customers with Zero Trust Network Access capabilities. The new phase of collaboration will see Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise (ALE) offer an extended range of Versa's solutions, including Secure SD-WAN and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), to complement ALE's existing LAN and WLAN network access control offerings. This expanded approach is aimed at addressing a wider spectrum of secure connectivity needs for contemporary enterprises. Versa, which provides AI-powered security solutions and is active globally in Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) technologies, brings its full SASE capabilities and in particular Secure SD-WAN, to ALE's portfolio. By integrating these technologies, ALE aims to deliver support for organisations with complex and diverse networking environments. According to the companies, customers will benefit from greater flexibility in deployment models, improved scalability, and enhanced management features for network security and operations. Expanded scope The partnership is intended to address the needs of organisations operating at scale, including those managing multiple sites or distributed workforces. The integration of Versa's technologies with ALE's secure networking enables enterprises to adopt a unified approach to secure connectivity across different locations and network edges. Stephan Robineau, Executive Vice President of the Network Business Division at Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise, commented on the development: "We are thrilled to strengthen our collaboration with Versa, a recognized leader in SASE and SD-WAN technologies. Versa's innovative solutions align seamlessly with our commitment to provide high-performance and resilient networks, simplifying network operations and enhancing secure connectivity for enterprises and multi-site organizations. This partnership allows us to expand our portfolio and provide secure solutions that adapt to the evolving demands of modern enterprises." With the rapid evolution of IT landscapes and increased adoption of hybrid cloud and on-premises solutions, organisations have become more reliant on robust security and simpler network management. ALE's collaboration with Versa, a company recognised for self-protecting and AI-powered network solutions, is aimed at helping enterprises address these complexities and security requirements. Universal secure access Martin Mackay, Chief Revenue Officer at Versa, also provided his perspective: "Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise continues to be a leader in delivering transformational networking solutions to its customers in the cloud, on-premises, or as a hybrid model. As a SASE solutions leader, Versa is excited to work more closely with ALE to extend Zero Trust security to every edge for secure anywhere, anytime access for all users and devices, regardless of their location." The enhanced partnership will allow ALE to expand its support across cloud-based, on-premises, and hybrid deployment models, with particular attention to Zero Trust principles. Both companies emphasise the ability to cater to the growing demand for secure, scalable, and manageable network infrastructures, especially as remote and flexible work models become increasingly common. Focus areas ALE continues to focus on offering secure networking solutions that are compliant with national and international data protection requirements. The company's approach is structured around three pillars: Environment Sustainability, Social Responsibility, and Corporate Governance. Through these, ALE aims to develop technology solutions with minimal environmental impact and high compliance standards. Both ALE and Versa intend for their continued collaboration to provide value to customers in industries requiring robust security and reliable network performance. Follow us on: Share on:


Channel Post MEA
17-06-2025
- Business
- Channel Post MEA
Fortinet Launches Sovereign SASE At Security Day In Dubai
Fortinet has announced the launch of its Sovereign SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) solution at its annual Security Day in Dubai. Fortinet's Sovereign SASE solution enables businesses to securely connect and protect users, applications, and data, regardless of location. It guarantees that data resides and is processed within specific geographical boundaries, giving organisations complete control over their sensitive data while complying with regional data regulations. Sovereign SASE supports a range of industries and is ideal for organizations operating in highly regulated verticals with sensitive data like government, finance, and healthcare, or any business that handles classified information and critical infrastructure. Shadi Khuffash, Senior Regional Director of South Middle East at Fortinet commented: 'In today's global economy, organisations face a growing array of cybersecurity threats and compliance complexities. At the same time, local data protection regulations create strict requirements around data governance that organisations in the UAE must navigate. Fortinet's launch of Sovereign SASE helps organisations to proactively detect and respond to threats, improve anomaly detection, and enhance user experience. This in turn creates a more agile and transparent industry that can respond to the needs of its citizens in real-time.' Security Day Focuses on AI, Quantum, and Cloud Security As Fortinet's flagship cybersecurity event in the region, the Security Day in Dubai brought together over 400 customers, partners, and industry professionals from across the UAE, including local government. Experts led sessions on topics such as AI, Quantum Computing, and the global threat landscape, giving attendees a first-hand look into the cybersecurity matters that are impacting industries across the Middle East. The Welcome Keynote was delivered by esteemed guest H.E. Dr. Mohammad Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cyber Security Council, followed by an Opening Keynote from Alain Sanchez, Field CISO at Fortinet. A dedicated Tech Expo offered hands-on networking, while a session hosted by Fortinet's Vice President of Global Threat Intelligence, Derek Manky, revealed the latest attack methods in the region as well as the solutions that organizations can leverage to cope with increasingly sophisticated cybercriminals. 'The Security Days are the largest and most comprehensive in-person Fortinet security event in the region. They have proven to be a prime opportunity for all cybersecurity professionals to gain security insights, discover the latest trends and innovations, and connect with like-minded individuals. We will host another Security Day event in Abu Dhabi on June 19th,' concluded Khuffash.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Cytracom Acquires Tentacle to Advance Security Risk Management Capabilities and Empower MSPs as Risk Advisors
MCKINNEY, Texas, June 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cytracom, a leading provider of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) solutions for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced the acquisition of Tentacle, a modern platform that helps organizations manage cybersecurity assessments, monitor third-party risk, and operationalize Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) programs. This acquisition represents a significant advancement in Cytracom's Security Risk Management (SRM) strategy and further aligns with the company's mission to empower MSPs to grow beyond traditional IT services and embrace a more strategic advisory role, guiding their clients through the evolving discipline of risk management. With increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies and mounting pressure from cyber insurers, MSPs are being called upon to act as true Risk Advisors, helping clients meet compliance mandates and improve their overall security posture. The integration of Tentacle into the Cytracom platform delivers a robust response to this need, offering structured, repeatable, and collaborative tools that make it easier for MSPs to deliver value-added risk and compliance services. Cytracom entered the SRM category through the acquisition of Telivy, introducing capabilities that enable MSPs to automate risk assessments, deliver recurring compliance documentation, and drive consultative engagements. Tentacle builds upon this foundation by allowing partners to centralize security program data, collaborate in real time with clients and third parties, and map internal practices to industry frameworks such as HIPAA, PCI, and FTC Safeguards. Its platform not only reduces the administrative burden of ongoing assessments but also provides the structure needed to move from one-time reviews to ongoing program management. "MSPs are increasingly being asked to manage risk as much as they manage technology," said Zane Conkle, CEO of Cytracom. "This shift creates both a challenge and an opportunity. With the acquisition of Tentacle, we're giving our partners the platform they need to step into this evolving role with confidence—helping clients navigate compliance, track progress over time, and build programs that stand up to external scrutiny, while also enabling MSPs to clearly demonstrate the ongoing value of their services." The rising demand for compliance-focused services is one of the most urgent trends in the MSP channel. SMB clients now face requirements driven by regulatory frameworks, industry-specific mandates, and cyber insurance audits. Tentacle's ability to organize and share assessment data, manage third-party relationships, and ensure audit readiness positions it as a key component of Cytracom's vision to simplify and scale SRM and GRC management for the channel. "This is another step forward in building a complete platform that empowers MSPs to connect the modern workforce—securely, reliably, and within the evolving frameworks of GRC," said John Tippett, Chief Commercial Officer. "Whether it's unified communications, secure access, or risk management, our focus remains on making these capabilities accessible, intuitive, and impactful for the partners who deliver them every day." By integrating Tentacle into its broader infrastructure software platform, Cytracom continues to deepen its investment in the tools MSPs need to succeed in a risk- and compliance-driven world. "We've been investing heavily in Telivy as a platform for recurring cybersecurity assessments and compliance workflows," added Rob McDonald, Chief Product Officer at Cytracom. "Bringing in Tentacle's proven technology allows us to combine their robust architecture with our existing development strategy, resulting in a dramatic acceleration of what we can bring to market. It significantly advances our mission to give MSPs scalable, differentiated tools for security and compliance." With solutions spanning VoIP, SASE, and SRM, Cytracom continues to equip partners to deliver critical infrastructure that is secure, scalable, and compliant—all from a single, unified platform built exclusively for the MSP channel. About Cytracom Cytracom, a Sverica Capital Management portfolio company, provides critical infrastructure technologies for businesses, delivering cloud-based unified communications and secure networking solutions tailored for managed service providers (MSPs) and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). By simplifying complex technologies, Cytracom ensures that businesses remain connected, secure, and resilient in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Our solutions, including SRM, GRC, UCaaS, and SASE platforms, are designed to empower businesses with the essential technologies they need to thrive. Headquartered in McKinney, Texas, Cytracom supports partners and customers across North America. To learn more, visit Media Contact: Dana Liedholm | dliedholm@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Cytracom Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Melden Sie sich an, um Ihr Portfolio aufzurufen. Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten