Cisco Systems is reportedly planning to acquire security platform Axonius for $2 billion
Cisco Systems is reportedly in talks to acquire Axonius, a startup specializing in cybersecurity asset management. This is according to Ctech by Calcalist, which estimates the acquisition sum at approximately $2 billion. Axonius is currently denying that talks are underway. The company states that it is “not in talks regarding an acquisition by Cisco” and says it is fully focused on customers, execution, and further growth.
What does Axonius do?
Axonius was founded in 2017 and develops a platform for cyber asset attack surface management. It helps companies secure and manage all devices.
Instead of replacing existing security tools, the tool works with them. The platform connects to hundreds of data sources, including endpoint security, identity platforms, cloud services, vulnerability scanners, and network tools. All that information is brought together in an overview, so companies know exactly what assets they have, how they are configured, and where the weak spots are.
Focus on invisible risks
Axonius works without installing software. As a result, it can also detect unmanaged or forgotten assets that often fall outside the sight of traditional security. In addition, the platform offers automation and enforcement. IT and security teams can set policies that automatically initiate actions when systems are no longer compliant. This ranges from isolating a device to disabling an account and opening a ticket in a management system.
Axonius has raised $595 million in seven funding rounds since its inception, writes SiliconANGLE. It is noteworthy that the company was still valued at $2.6 billion in 2022, after an investment round of $200 million. If Cisco were indeed to offer $2 billion, that would be below the startup’s peak valuation. Whether the talks will actually lead to a deal remains uncertain for the time being.
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