Palo Alto Networks Strengthens AI and SASE Security Capabilities, Acquires Protect AI

Palo Alto Networks today announced a series of strategic developments designed to address the evolving cybersecurity landscape shaped by rapid AI adoption and modern, perimeterless workplaces. Key announcements include the acquisition of Protect AI, the launch of Prisma AIRS, advancements in Prisma SASE, and significant updates to Cortex XSIAM.

Acquisition of Protect AI

The acquisition of Protect AI positions Palo Alto Networks to secure the full lifecycle of AI applications, addressing vulnerabilities specific to AI and Machine Learning models. Protect AI's technology tackles emerging threats like model manipulation, data poisoning, and prompt injection attacks, allowing businesses to safely leverage AI capabilities from development to deployment. Following the acquisition, Protect AI’s solutions will integrate into Palo Alto Networks’ new Prisma AIRS platform.

Prisma AIRS Platform Launch

Prisma AIRS, announced alongside the acquisition, is Palo Alto Networks' comprehensive AI security platform designed to secure enterprise AI ecosystems—including apps, agents, models, and data. Prisma AIRS provides capabilities such as AI model scanning, posture management, AI red teaming, runtime security, and agent security. It is built to proactively identify and mitigate AI-specific threats, allowing businesses to deploy AI technologies with greater confidence.

Expanded Prisma SASE Capabilities

In parallel, Palo Alto Networks has expanded its Prisma SASE portfolio to address security needs arising from hybrid and remote working environments. The company introduced Prisma Access Browser 2.0, a SASE-native secure browser specifically designed to protect users from sophisticated web attacks and secure data in real-time, particularly as businesses increasingly use generative AI tools. Prisma Access Browser 2.0 integrates advanced AI-powered protection and user experience enhancements, strengthening security from the browser outward. The Prisma SASE platform now also includes advanced endpoint data loss prevention capabilities, improved app performance acceleration at branch locations, and enhanced global presence through expanded infrastructure in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.

Cortex XSIAM 3.0 Enhancements

Finally, Palo Alto Networks unveiled Cortex XSIAM 3.0, extending its Security Operations (SecOps) capabilities into proactive threat prevention. Cortex XSIAM 3.0 introduces Exposure Management and Advanced Email Security, leveraging AI to prioritize vulnerabilities and automate security workflows. Exposure Management significantly reduces vulnerability noise, helping security teams identify critical threats quickly. Advanced Email Security addresses sophisticated email-based attacks using AI-driven analytics and automation to enhance threat detection, removal, and response effectiveness.

These strategic updates underline Palo Alto Networks’ commitment to adapting cybersecurity solutions to meet the demands of modern enterprises navigating complex digital environments. Each advancement is designed to empower organizations to securely innovate, optimize operations, and proactively manage evolving cybersecurity risks.