This blog post is based on research by Avishay Zawoznik, Security Research Manager at Cato Networks. The Cloud Conundrum: Navigating New Cyber Threats in a... Read ›
Outsmarting Cyber Threats: Etay Maor Unveils the Hacker’s Playbook in the Cloud Era This blog post is based on research by Avishay Zawoznik, Security Research Manager at Cato Networks.
The Cloud Conundrum: Navigating New Cyber Threats in a Digital World
In an era where cyber threats evolve as rapidly as the technology they target, understanding the mindset of those behind the attacks is crucial. This was the central theme of a speech given by Etay Maor, Senior Director of Security Strategy, of Cato Networks at the MSP EXPO 2024 Conference & Exposition in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Titled, “SASE vs. On-Prem A Hacker’s Perspective,” Maor’s session provided invaluable insights into the sophisticated tactics of modern cybercriminals.
Maor’s presentation painted a vivid picture of the ongoing battle in cyber work. He emphasized that as businesses transition to cloud-based solutions, hackers are not far behind, exploiting these very platforms to orchestrate their malicious activities. Trusted cloud services and applications, once seen as safe havens, are now being used to extract sensitive data, distribute malware, and launch phishing campaigns.
The session highlighted a concerning trend: many organizations are still anchored in an on-premises mindset. This approach, unfortunately, is increasingly inadequate in countering modern cyber threats. Maor’s argument was supported by a series of case studies detailing real-life attacks, showcasing how these threats are not just theoretical but present and active dangers.
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Embracing SASE: A New Frontier in Cybersecurity
One of the most interesting parts of the session was the live demonstrations. These demonstrations brought to light the ease with which hackers can penetrate systems that rely on outdated security models. Maor also shared insights from underground forums, offering a rare glimpse into the ways hackers plan and execute their attacks. This peek into the hacker’s world underscored the need for a more dynamic and forward-thinking approach to cybersecurity.
In contrast to the traditional on-premises solutions, Maor extolled the virtues of SASE architecture. He delineated how SASE’s convergence of network and security services into a single, cloud-native solution offers a more robust defense against the complexities of today’s cyber landscape. SASE’s adaptability, scalability, and integrated security posture make it a formidable opponent against the tactics employed by modern hackers.
The key takeaway from Maor’s speech was clear: the transition to cloud-based infrastructures demands a paradigm shift in our approach to cybersecurity. Traditional methods are no longer sufficient in this new digital battlefield. Businesses must embrace innovative solutions like SASE to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
As we navigate this complex cybersecurity landscape, Maor’s insights are not just thought-provoking but essential. To delve deeper into these concepts and fortify your organization’s cybersecurity posture, don’t miss Cato Networks’ Cybersecurity Master Class. This comprehensive resource offers a wealth of knowledge and strategies to combat the ever-evolving threat landscape.
Visit Cybersecurity Master Class webpage today and take the first step towards a more secure digital future.
Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Frank Rauch, Global Channel Chief of Cato Networks, as he shares his insights on our exciting announcement... Read ›
Embracing a Channel-First Approach in a SASE-based XDR and EPP Era Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Frank Rauch, Global Channel Chief of Cato Networks, as he shares his insights on our exciting announcement about Cato introducing the world’s first SASE-based, extended detection and response (XDR) and the first SASE-managed endpoint protection platform (EPP).
Together, Cato XDR and Cato EPP mark the technology industry’s first expansion beyond the original Service Access Service Edge (SASE) scope pioneered by Cato in 2016 and defined by Gartner in 2019.
Q. Could you start by explaining Cato Networks’ channel-first philosophy?
A. At Cato Networks, our commitment to being a channel-first company is unwavering. We believe that our success is intertwined with the success of our channel partners. This approach means we are consistently working to provide our partners with innovative solutions, like Cato XDR and Cato EPP, ensuring they have the tools and support to offer the best services to their customers.
Q2. How do Cato’s latest offerings, Cato XDR and Cato EPP, align with the needs of our channel partners?
A2. Cato XDR and Cato EPP are game changers. They extend the scope of our Cato SASE Cloud platform, which our partners have been successfully selling and deploying. These new offerings enable our partners to deliver comprehensive security solutions, addressing everything from threat prevention to data protection and now, extended threat detection and response. This holistic approach meets the growing demands for integrated security solutions in the market.
Q3. Can you share some insights on how Cato’s SASE Cloud platform has been received by our channel partners?
A3. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Our partners, like Art Nichols, CTO of Windstream Enterprise, and Niko O’Hara, Senior Director of Engineering of AVANT, appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of our Cato SASE Cloud platform. They find that the convergence of networking and security into a single, easily manageable solution resonates well with their customers.
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Q4. What makes Cato XDR and Cato EPP in the Cato SASE Cloud platform stand out for our channel partners?
A4. Cato XDR and Cato EPP stand out in the Cato SASE Cloud platform for their cloud-native efficiency, innovative capabilities, and the strategic advantages they offer to our channel partners.
There are several unique benefits for our channel partners:
Cloud-Native Advantage: Our cloud-native architecture provides scalability and flexibility, allowing partners to cater to businesses of all sizes efficiently. The unified platform ensures a consistent and integrated experience, reducing compatibility issues and simplifying client management.
Rapid Innovation and Deployment: The agility of our cloud-native system enables quick updates and feature rollouts. This means our partners can offer the latest advancements to enterprises promptly, staying ahead in a fast-paced market.
Upsell Opportunities: The comprehensive nature of our Cato SASE Cloud platform, including Cato XDR and Cato EPP, opens numerous upselling opportunities for partners. Enterprises can easily expand their service scope within our platform, creating a pathway for partners to enhance their revenue streams.
Simplified Management: With an integrated approach, managing security and network operations becomes less complex. This translates to lower support costs and resource requirements for our partners, allowing them to focus on strategic growth areas.
Aligning with Business Trends: The cloud-native model supports the shift from capital expenditure-heavy models to more flexible, operational expenditure-based models. This aligns well with the evolving preferences of enterprises and market trends.
Q5. How does Cato support its channel partners in adopting and implementing these new solutions?
A5. We provide extensive training, marketing, and sales support to ensure our partners are well-equipped to succeed. This includes detailed product information, go-to-market strategies, and hands-on assistance to ensure they can effectively communicate the value proposition of Cato XDR and Cato EPP to their customers.
Q6. What message would you like to convey to current and prospective channel partners around the world?
A6. To our current and prospective partners, we say: Join us in this exciting journey. With Cato Networks, you’re not just offering a product, but a transformative approach to networking and security. Our channel-first philosophy ensures that we are invested in your success, and together, we can achieve remarkable results in this rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the line between the defenders and attackers often blurs, with skills transferable across both arenas. It’s a narrative not... Read ›
From Shadow to Guardian: The Journey of a Hacker-Turned Hero In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the line between the defenders and attackers often blurs, with skills transferable across both arenas. It’s a narrative not unfamiliar to many in the cybersecurity community: the journey from black hat to white hat, from outlaw to protector.
In the 15th episode of Cato Networks’ Cyber Security Master Class, hosted by Etay Maor, Senior Director of Security Strategy, we had the privilege of witnessing such a transformative story unfold.
Hector Monsegur, once known in the darker corners of the internet, shared his gripping journey of becoming one of the good guys – a white hat hacker. Monsegur is a former Lulzsec hacker group leader Sabu and currently serves as director of research at Alacrinet.
His story is not just one of redemption but is a beacon of invaluable insights into the complex cybersecurity landscape.
The Allure of the Abyss
Monsegur’s tale began in the abyss, the place where many black hat hackers find a home. Drawn by the allure of challenge and the thrill of breaking into seemingly impregnable systems, Monsegur recounted his early days of cyber mischief. Like many others in his position, it wasn’t greed or malice that fueled his journey; it was curiosity and the quest for recognition in a community that celebrates technical prowess.
However, as he emphasized in his conversation with Maor, the actions of black hat hackers have real-world consequences. They affect lives, destroy businesses, and even threaten national security. It was this realization, alongside consequential run-ins with the law, that marked the turning point in Monsegur’s life.
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Crossing the Chasm
The transition from black hat to white hat is more than just a title change – it’s a complete ideological shift. For Monsegur, the journey was fraught with challenges. Rebuilding trust was one of the significant hurdles he had to overcome. He had to prove his skills could be used for good, to defend and protect, rather than to disrupt and damage.
It was through this difficult transition that Monsegur highlighted the importance of opportunity. Many black hats lack the channel to pivot their skills into a legal and more constructive cybersecurity career. Monsegur’s case was different. He was presented with a chance to help government agencies fend off the kind of attacks he once might have initiated, turning his life around and setting a precedent for other reformed hackers.
A Valuable Perspective
One of the most compelling takeaways from the interview was the unique perspective that former black hats bring to the table. Having been on the other side, Monsegur understands the mindsets and tactics of cyber attackers intrinsically. This insider knowledge is invaluable in anticipating and mitigating attacks before they happen.
In his white hat role, Monsegur has been instrumental in helping organizations understand and fortify their cyber defenses. His approach goes beyond traditional methods – it’s proactive, driven by an intimate knowledge of how black hat hackers operate.
The White Hat Ethos
Becoming a white hat hacker is not merely a career change; it is an ethos, a commitment to using one’s skills for the greater good. Monsegur emphasized the satisfaction derived from protecting people and institutions from the threats he once posed. This fulfillment, according to him, surpasses any thrill that black hat hacking ever offered.
In his dialogue with Maor, Monsegur didn’t shy away from addressing the controversial aspects of his past. Instead, he leveraged his experiences to educate and warn of the dangers lurking in the cyber shadows. He expressed a desire to guide those walking a similar path to his past, steering them towards using their talents constructively.
Fostering Redemption in Cybersecurity
The cybersecurity community, Monsegur believes, has a role to play in fostering redemption. He advocates for the creation of paths for black hats to reform and join the ranks of cybersecurity professionals. By providing education, mentorship, and employment opportunities, the community cannot only help rehabilitate individuals but also strengthen its defenses with their unique skill sets.
Monsegur’s story serves as a powerful reminder that the road to redemption is possible. It emphasizes that when directed positively, the skills that once challenged the system can become its greatest shield.
Closing Thoughts
As the interview ended, the overarching message was clear: transformation is possible, and it can lead to powerful outcomes for both the individual and the broader cybersecurity ecosystem. Hector Monsegur’s journey from black hat to white hat hacker is not just a personal victory but a collective gain for the community seeking to safeguard our digital world.
Through stories like Monsegur’s, we find hope and a reminder that within every challenge lies the potential for growth and change. It is up to us, the cybersecurity community, to embrace this potential and transform it into a force for good.
January 2023, Frank Rauch took on the pivotal role of Global Channel Chief at Cato Networks. This appointment marked a significant moment in Cato’s ongoing... Read ›
Frank Rauch Discusses the Impact Partners Have on Cato’s Success January 2023, Frank Rauch took on the pivotal role of Global Channel Chief at Cato Networks. This appointment marked a significant moment in Cato’s ongoing commitment to its global channel partner program. To shed light on the program’s value and its role in Cato’s success, we sat down with Frank and asked him to share his assessment after nine months on the job.
Q. Frank, can you explain how Cato Networks’ channel partner program aligns with Cato’s “Channel-First Company”, and how does this benefit Cato’s bottom line?
A. Our commitment to being a “Channel-First Company” means that our channel partners are at the forefront of our growth strategy. Our partner program is designed to empower our partners with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. This alignment not only strengthens our relationships with partners but also ensures that they have the necessary resources to drive customer success. By fostering a robust partner ecosystem, we expand our market research and, in turn, boost our Partner’s profitability and Cato’s growth.
Q2. In a recent CRN story, Cato Networks was praised for its unique approach to SASE. How does the channel partner program contribute to this distinctiveness, and what advantages does it provide to partners?
A2. Cato’s unique approach to SASE is underpinned by our commitment to simplicity, security, and agility. Our channel partner program plays a vital role in this by equipping partners with our groundbreaking technology and enabling them to deliver exceptional value to their customers. Partners benefit from differentiated offerings, streamlined sales processes, and competitive incentives and unprecedented customer value allowing them to stand out in the market.
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Q3. Cato Networks has been recognized for its innovative Cato SASE Cloud platform. How does the channel partner program support partners in selling SASE Cloud solutions and ensuring their customers’ network security?
A3. SASE is the future of networking and security, and our channel partners are at the forefront of this transformation, enjoying an early adopter advantage. Our program offers extensive training, certification, and access to our SASE platform, enabling partners to deliver comprehensive security and networking solutions to their customers. This approach not only ensures our partners’ success but also reinforces Cato’s position as a leader in the SASE market.
Q4. In a Channel Futures story, you mentioned the importance of partner enablement. Can you elaborate on how Cato Networks empowers its channel partners to succeed and the impact it has on Cato’s global growth?
A4. Partner enablement is at the core of our strategy. We provide partners with continuous training, technical resources, and marketing support focused on the buyer's journey and customer success. This enables them to serve as trusted advisors to their customers and positions Cato Networks as the go-to provider for secure, global SASE Cloud solutions. As our partners succeed, so does Cato, driving our global growth.
Q5. Cato Networks has established partnerships with some of the highest growth-managed service providers. How does the channel partner program facilitate collaboration with these key partners, and what advantages does it bring to both Cato and its MSP partners?
A5. Partnering with managed service providers is a strategic move for Cato Networks. Our channel partner program is designed to foster strong collaboration with MSPs, providing them with the tools and resources to seamlessly integrate our secure, global Cato SASE Cloud solutions. This collaboration enables us to reach a wider audience and deliver businesses comprehensive networking and security services. For Cato, it strengthens our position in the market as a trusted technology partner, while MSPs benefit from a powerful platform to offer enhanced services to their customers, ultimately driving mutual growth and success. The timing could not be better with customers focusing on security, networking, and resilience in an extremely complex market with more than four million security jobs open worldwide.
Q6. Lastly, Frank, can you provide some insights into what the future holds for Cato Networks’ channel partner program and its role in Cato’s ongoing success?
A6. The future is bright for our channel partner program. We will continue to invest in our partners’ success, expanding our portfolio and refining our support mechanisms. We see our partners as an extension of the Cato family, and their profitable growth is inherently tied to ours. Together, we will continue to redefine networking and security through SASE while reinforcing Cato’s position as a “Channel-First Company” dedicated to empowering partners and delivering exceptional results.
In conclusion, Frank’s perspective on Cato Networks’ global channel partner program highlights its critical role in Cato’s success as a “Channel-First Company.” By equipping partners with the tools they need to excel, Cato not only strengthens its relationships with partners but also expands its market research and continues to innovate in the SASE market. Cato Networks’ commitment to its channel partners is a testament to its dedication to providing top-tier networking and security solutions via SASE to businesses worldwide.
In the fast-paced world of auto racing, where technology and precision come together in a symphony of speed, Cato Networks made its mark as the... Read ›
Cato Networks Powers Ahead: Fuels Innovation with TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team In the fast-paced world of auto racing, where technology and precision come together in a symphony of speed, Cato Networks made its mark as the official SASE sponsor of the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team. As the engines quietly ran and tires screeched at the 2023 Southwire Portland E-Prix, held at the iconic Portland International Raceway in June, Cato Networks proudly stood alongside the cutting-edge world of electric racing, embodying the spirit of innovation and collaboration.
Formula E racing isn’t just about speed; it’s a captivating blend of advanced technology, sustainable energy, and thrilling competition that resonates with racing enthusiasts worldwide including myself and more than 20 Catonians as we hosted our customers, partners, and journalists in Portland, Oregon. Maury Brown of Forbes eloquently captures its essence stating, “Formula E racing represents the marriage of high-performance motorsports and sustainable energy solutions, all on a global stage.” It’s a spectacle that goes beyond the racetrack, showcasing the potential of electric vehicles and their role in shaping a more sustainable future.” It’s a spectacle that goes beyond the racetrack, showcasing the potential of electric vehicles and their role in shaping a more sustainable future.
Writing for Axios Portland, Meira Gebel emphasizes the profound impact of Formula E racing on the local communities that host these events. Her story highlights how the racing series sparks innovation and inspires environmental consciousness. The 2023 Southwire E-Prix in Portland, Oregon, perfectly encapsulates these ideals, with its picturesque backdrop and its commitment to showcasing the potential of electric racing in a city known for its green initiatives.
At the heart of this electrifying journey is Cato Networks, a company that is redefining networking and security with its Cato SASE Cloud platform. Just as Formula E racing pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, Cato Networks is revolutionizing the way businesses approach networking and security. By partnering with the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team, Cato Networks is aligning its commitment to innovation and performance with the excitement and dynamism of Formula E racing.
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Florian Modlinger, Director of Factory Motorsport Formula E at Porsche, underscores the significance of Cato Networks’ involvement: “We are thrilled to have Cato Networks as our official SAES sponsor. Just as our team constantly strives for excellence on the racetrack, Cato Networks is dedicated to delivering exceptional networking and security solutions. Together, we embody the spirit of forward-thinking, high-performance teamwork.”
The 2023 Southwire Portland E-Prix was a true testament to this partnership, where TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team, powered by the Cato SASE Cloud, demonstrated their prowess on the racetrack. As electric cars whizzed by, fueled by renewable energy, they visually represented the fusion between technology, speed, and sustainability.
For Cato Networks, the sponsorship of TAG Heuer Porsche Motorsport Formula ETeam goes beyond just the racetrack. It symbolizes the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and fostering a collaborative spirit. As the race cars accelerated down the Portland International Raceway, Cato Networks’ presence was a reminder that the world of business networking and security is also hurtling into a future defined by agility, efficiency, and adaptability.
In an era where sustainability and technological advancement are at the forefront of global conversations, Cato Networks’ role as the official SASE sponsor for the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E team is a testimony to the company’s vision. Just as Formula E racing fans cheer for their favorite teams, supporters of Cato Networks can celebrate a partnership that embodies progress and transformation.
As the engines quieted down after the exhilarating 2023 Southwire Portland E-Prix, the echoes of innovation and collaboration lingered in the air. Cato Networks’ TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team sponsorship left an indelible mark on the racing world and beyond. In the words of Maury Brown, “Formula E isn’t just a motorsport series; it’s a showcase for a more sustainable and connected future.” With Cato Networks driving change on and off the racetrack, the journey toward that future is more electrifying than ever.
In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, enterprises are constantly seeking the most effective solutions to secure their networks and data. GigaOm’s Radar Report for Secure... Read ›
Cato SASE Cloud: A Two-Time Leader and Outperformer in GigaOm’s Radar Report for Secure Service Access In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, enterprises are constantly seeking the most effective solutions to secure their networks and data. GigaOm’s Radar Report for Secure Service Access, GigaOm’s term for SASE, provides a comprehensive look at the industry, and for the second consecutive year, names Cato Networks a “Leader” and “Outperformer.” The recognition points to Cato’s continuous commitment to innovation and improvement.
Cato’s Continued Success and Improvements
GigaOm Radar report is a forward look at the technology of a product looking. Vendor offerings are plotted on multiple axes based on strategy (Feature Play vs. Platform Play) and execution (Maturity vs. Innovation). The ideal solution would be in the middle of the radar.
This year, Cato’s ranking in GigaOm’s Radar came closest to that ideal position among 22 other companies. This placement stemmed from improvements in many areas. We improved our ranking in three deployment models from a year ago: multicloud, edge cloud, and hybrid cloud.
In emerging technologies, Cato upgraded our ranking in the edge and open platforms and vendor support. We elevated our ranking for digital experience monitoring and management in the key criteria category. We also improved our security capabilities rating for detection and response from a year ago.
Finally, we also expanded our global PoP presence, strengthening our ability to deliver our security stack and optimized, low-latency network performance to users across the world. This expansion ensures that enterprises can enjoy a seamless and secure network experience regardless of their users’ locations.
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GigaOm Sees Cato as an “Exceptional” “Leader”
The GigaOm Radar report found Cato SASE Cloud to be one of the few SSA platforms capable of addressing the networking and security needs of the complete market -- large enterprises, MSPs, NSPs, and SMBs.
Cato SASE Cloud was also the only “Leader” ranked "Exceptional" across all evaluation metrics. These are measurements that provide insight into the impact of each product’s features and capabilities on the organization, reflecting fundamental aspects including client support, ecosystem support, and total cost of ownership. More specifically, Cato SASE Cloud was ranked “Exceptional” in its:
Flexibility
Interoperability
Performance
Redundancy
Visibility, Monitoring, and Auditing
Vendor Support
Pricing and TCO
Vision and Roadmap
GigaOm also cited Cato for a near-perfect score in nine core networking and network-based security capabilities comprising SSA solutions: CASB, DNS Security, SWG, SD-WAN, ZTNA, NDR, XDR, FWaaS, and SSAaaS. As the report put it,
“Developed in-house from the ground up, Cato SASE cloud connects all enterprise network resources—including branch locations, cloud, physical data centers, and the hybrid workforce—within a secure, cloud-native service. Delivering low latency and predictable performance via a global private backbone, Cato SASE cloud optimizes on-premises and cloud connectivity, enabling secure remote access via client and clientless options. In addition, Cato SASE cloud's single-pass, cloud-native security engine enforces granular corporate access policies across all on-premises and cloud-based applications, protecting users again security breaches and threats."
For detailed summaries and in-depth analysis of the SSA/SASE market players, download and read the GigaOm SSA report from here.
