Vendors in the networking and security space are embracing "platformization," a strategy aimed at combining networking and security products into a cohesive architecture. This approach is designed to streamline policy enforcement, enhance visibility, and improve IT productivity.
Here’s a look at six notable vendor platforms that are leading the charge:
1. Cisco: Networking Cloud and Security Cloud
Cisco introduced the Cisco Networking Cloud in mid-2023, aiming to create a unified management solution operable either on-premises or in the cloud. It improves visibility and automation across various platforms, including campus and branch networks, data centers, IoT, and SD-WAN. The Security Cloud platform also leverages Cisco’s Hypershield architecture for enhanced security integration.
2. Extreme: One Platform for Everything
The Extreme Platform One consolidates connectivity, security, and inventory management under a single umbrella. Utilizing AI, the platform offers features such as conversational AI for user interactions, comprehensive analytics, and autonomous workflows for various operational tasks including design and troubleshooting.
3. Fortinet: Security Fabric
Fortinet’s Security Fabric operates on a unified system that encompasses one operating system, agent, management console, and data lake, alongside integration capabilities with over 500 third-party products. Fortinet’s (Nasdaq:FTNT) platform enables seamless integration of networking and security functions, delivering automated protection across devices and applications.
4. HPE Aruba: SaaS and NaaS Options
HPE Aruba’s Networking Central is marketed as an AI-driven network management solution, available as a service or through HPE GreenLake subscriptions. The platform incorporates the recent acquisition of OpsRamp, enhancing its capabilities for third-party device monitoring, network observability, and AI-driven optimization solutions.
5. Juniper: Leaning on Mist and Marvis
Juniper integrates networking and security functions into its AI-Native Networking Platform, featuring Mist AI and the Marvis virtual assistant. This platform aims to quickly resolve networking issues through root cause identification and integrates security monitoring across the network infrastructure with a zero-trust approach.
6. Palo Alto Networks: Diverse Platforms
Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW) is shifting towards a comprehensive platform strategy that includes three main areas: Strata for network security, Prisma Cloud for cloud security, and Cortex for security operations. This consolidation of various standalone tools into a single architecture is geared toward automating and enhancing cybersecurity efforts.
As these vendors continue to innovate and expand their platforms, organizations can expect more streamlined and integrated approaches to networking and security management. This shift not only simplifies operations but also equips IT teams with holistic solutions tailored to meet evolving challenges in the digital landscape.
