Cisco announces cloud-based security endpoint portfolio
Cisco is taking aim at the managed security service providers (MSSP) market with three cloud-based tools included in its endpoint security portfolio: Cisco AMP for Endpoints, Cisco Umbrella and Meraki Systems Manager.
The security market continues to swell alongside the growing threat of data breaches and malicious malware. Gartner forecasts spending on information security products and services will hit $93 billion in 2018. The research firm noted that IT outsourcing, consulting and implementation services are especially growing in this market. Cisco reports nearly half of U.S. based SMBs and enterprises are outsourcing at least one aspect of their security practice to third parties, with most outsourcing multiple pieces of their practice.
“At a time when customers are moving to the cloud and struggling with requirements to improve operational efficiency, we’re partnering with MSSPs to ensure they can deliver comprehensive solutions with security, visibility and end point control,” said Gee Rittenhouse, SVP of Engineering, Security Business Group, Cisco. “Through flexible licensing models and an expanding portfolio, we address customer needs and the needs of our MSSPs to differentiate and grow their businesses.”
Among the three products included in Cisco’s endpoint security portfolio, AMP for Endpoints is intended to thwart breaches and malware at the point of entry. It then proceeds to monitor and record file activity, regardless of the file’s disposition. Cisco Umbrella, on the other hand, is intended to provide the visibility to protect web access for devices on a client’s network, office locations and roaming users, blocking malicious or unwanted destinations before a connection is established. Whereas Meraki Systems Manager provides over-the-air centralized management, diagnostic and monitoring for mobile devices.
“Cisco AMP was integrated into our NetDefend Malware Protector Service and Malware Outbreak Service years ago,” said Rick Chapman, CTO, InterVision Systems, LLC. “We worked closely with Cisco as they developed their next-generation AMP platform. With its multitenant, cloud-based delivery model, AMP for Endpoints aligns with our operational needs and provides flexibility to deliver enhanced security services that increase our revenue and profitability.”
The MSSP portfolio follows a similar strategy taken by Cisco last November in which it expanded its multi-cloud security portfolio. The solutions added were intended to help customers manage SaaS apps, secure cloud email, identify public cloud threats and maintain a secure connection to the cloud.
