Business & Finance
Palo Alto Networks acquires AI startup Console for reported $500 million
The cybersecurity firm plans to incorporate Console's IT automation technology into its Cortex security platform.
The short version
- Palo Alto Networks acquired IT automation startup Console in a deal reported by sources to be worth $500 million in cash and stock.
- Console will be integrated into Palo Alto Networks' Cortex platform to automate security alert investigations via natural language.
- The transaction marks Palo Alto Networks' seventh acquisition in 2026 as it expands its enterprise automation capabilities.
Key facts
- Palo Alto Networks announced the acquisition of Console without officially disclosing the financial terms.[TechCrunch]
- Sources familiar with the deal stated that Palo Alto Networks paid $500 million in cash and stock for the startup.[TechCrunch]
- Console, founded in 2024 by Andrei Serban, raised $29 million from backers including Thrive Capital, DST Global, and Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora as an angel investor.[TechCrunch]
- Palo Alto Networks plans to integrate Console's AI agent technology into its Cortex threat detection and neutralization platform.[TechCrunch]
- The transaction represents Palo Alto Networks' seventh acquisition in 2026, according to PitchBook data.[TechCrunch]
What remains uncertain
- Palo Alto Networks declined to officially confirm the $500 million valuation or specific financial terms of the deal.[TechCrunch]