Fortinet has invested $75 million in Linksys and inked a security-related strategic alliance with the home networking provider.
In addition, Fortinet will work with Linksys and a subsidiary of electronic connector manufacturing company Foxconn Interconnect Technology to explore ways to secure and optimize the performance and management of home networks, the company indicated. It also plans to offer connectivity and security solutions designed to help organizations that employ remote workers.
The strategic alliance lets Fortinet deliver enterprise-grade secure, reliable network connectivity for home-based workers, CEO Ken Xie said. It enables Fortinet to provide security-driven networking that ensures remote workers are protected against cyber threats and can enjoy a seamless end-user experience.
Furthermore, the alliance supports Fortinet's mission to deliver anywhere, anytime security, Xie indicated. It empowers Fortinet to simultaneously secure mobile end-users, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and home offices and help organizations remain agile, safe and productive.
Linksys, formerly owned by Cisco Systems, is a well-known provider of home networking equipment, WiFi and router gear.
Fortinet Strategic Alliances, Engage Partner Program
The strategic alliance comes after AT&T Cybersecurity and Fortinet launched AT&T Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) with Fortinet in March 2021.
AT&T SASE with Fortinet is a global managed SASE solution that blends software-defined wide-area network (SD-WAN) capabilities with network security functions, the companies said. It enables organizations to provide end-users with low-latency access to applications hosted at a data center or in the cloud and apply unified security policies across their networks.
Furthermore, Fortinet in March 2021 updated its Engage program to help MSSPs, cloud services providers (CSPs) and systems integrators (SIs) grow their businesses. The updated program includes new consumption models and specializations and NSE course enhancements.
