WatchGuard acquires ActZero to enhance its MDR offering
In a move to enhance its Managed Detection and Response (MDR) capabilities, cybersecurity leader WatchGuard has acquired California-based ActZero. The acquisition aims to empower managed service providers (MSPs) with advanced security features, eliminating the need for in-house security operations centers (SOCs).
Announcing the news, WatchGuard CEO Prakash Panjwani said the acquisition will enable “WatchGuard to add capacity, scalability, and new technology to expand our MDR service across the full WatchGuard portfolio and third-party security products."
With ActZero’s expertise in proactive, AI-driven threat detection and response, WatchGuard intends to extend its 24/7 MDR offering, delivering more operational efficiencies to MSPs.
Why ActZero
Founded on AI-powered threat analysis and automation, ActZero’s MDR services align closely with WatchGuard’s vision. ActZero’s platform includes machine learning tools to minimize false positives and reduce noise, open architecture for managing third-party services like Microsoft Defender, and an expert SOC team that ensures seamless threat monitoring, detection, and remediation.
"WatchGuard shares our commitment to simplifying cybersecurity for MSPs," said Hal Libby, ActZero co-founder and the newly appointed general manager of managed services at WatchGuard. "Together, we’ll accelerate the expansion of MDR products to serve more MSPs worldwide."
A unified approach
Introduced in 2023, WatchGuard MDR provides MSPs with scalable tools for endpoint monitoring, threat hunting, investigation, and remediation. By integrating ActZero’s customer success processes and SOC expertise, WatchGuard plans to enhance its unified security platform, delivering tailored solutions for MSPs while maintaining continuity for existing customers.
ActZero’s staff and processes will now direct the delivery of WatchGuard’s MDR services, ensuring uninterrupted service for partners and clients.
Sameer Bhalotra, ActZero’s co-founder and CEO, expressed optimism about the merger’s potential saying, “Integrating with WatchGuard enables our AI-powered MDR solution to reach a global audience, providing unmatched protection against cyber threats.”
