Home » OPSWAT acquires Fend; to strengthen cybersecurity solutions with advanced data diode technology – IndustrialCyber
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OPSWAT acquires Fend; to strengthen cybersecurity solutions with advanced data diode technology – IndustrialCyber

In a significant move to bolster its cybersecurity offerings, OPSWAT has acquired Fend Incorporated, a leading provider of advanced data diode technology. This strategic acquisition is poised to enhance OPSWAT’s capabilities in securing critical infrastructure, particularly in industries where air-gapped environments are vital for defense. The addition of Fend’s cutting-edge data diode solutions to OPSWAT’s portfolio is expected to provide unparalleled security for customers’ most critical assets. With this acquisition, OPSWAT solidifies its position as a comprehensive provider of cybersecurity solutions, leveraging Fend’s expertise in protecting operational technology against cyber threats and ransomware.

Background and Context

OPSWAT acquires Fend; to strengthen cybersecurity solutions with advanced data diode technology - IndustrialCyber

The acquisition of Fend Incorporated by OPSWAT is a testament to the growing importance of cybersecurity in critical infrastructure. As industries such as utilities, manufacturing, and government agencies increasingly rely on digital technologies, the risk of cyber threats and ransomware attacks has escalated. In response, companies like OPSWAT are expanding their offerings to include specialized solutions that can effectively mitigate these risks. Fend’s data diode technology, which creates a secure one-way communication channel, is particularly well-suited for high-security environments where preventing external access is paramount.

Data Diode Technology

Fend’s data diode technology is a hardware-based approach that allows data to flow from one network to another while physically blocking reverse transmission. This technology is valued in industries such as defense, industrial control systems, and critical infrastructure, where the prevention of external access is crucial. Originally reserved for sensitive applications like nuclear power plants, data diode technology has evolved to become more accessible and affordable, making it a practical solution for industries that require secure online monitoring and predictive analytics.

Benefits of Data Diode Technology

The benefits of Fend’s data diode technology are multifaceted. By creating a secure one-way communication channel, data diodes can prevent cyber threats and ransomware attacks from compromising critical infrastructure. Additionally, data diodes can improve operational efficiency, reduce unexpected downtime, and enhance staff productivity. With its comprehensive connectivity options, including Ethernet, cellular, and serial connections, Fend’s data diodes can accommodate both emerging technologies like 5G and Industry 4.0, as well as legacy infrastructure.

OPSWAT’s Expanded Capabilities

OPSWAT acquires Fend; to strengthen cybersecurity solutions with advanced data diode technology - IndustrialCyber

The acquisition of Fend Incorporated significantly expands OPSWAT’s capabilities in providing cybersecurity solutions for critical infrastructure. With the addition of Fend’s data diode technology, OPSWAT can now offer a comprehensive range of data diodes and unidirectional gateway solutions that utilize proprietary technology like multiscanning with up to 30 anti-virus engines, Deep CDR for zero-day threats, Sandboxing, and Proactive DLP technologies to prevent sensitive data leakage. This expanded portfolio positions OPSWAT as a leader in the industry, capable of delivering unparalleled security for customers’ most critical assets.

Integration and Compatibility

The integration of Fend’s data diode technology with OPSWAT’s existing offerings is expected to be seamless. Fend’s comprehensive connectivity options will enable OPSWAT to meet the demands of both emerging technologies and legacy infrastructure. Additionally, Fend’s data diodes will be compatible with OPSWAT’s MetaDefender Kiosk and MetaDefender Managed File Transfer, providing true cross-domain security and connectivity for remote assets and smaller facilities.

Market Impact

The acquisition of Fend Incorporated by OPSWAT is expected to have a significant impact on the market. With its expanded capabilities, OPSWAT is poised to deliver unparalleled security solutions for critical infrastructure, enhancing its leadership in the industry. The addition of Fend’s data diode technology to OPSWAT’s portfolio is also expected to drive growth and innovation in the cybersecurity sector, as companies increasingly recognize the importance of securing critical infrastructure against cyber threats and ransomware attacks.

Technical Details and Specifications

OPSWAT acquires Fend; to strengthen cybersecurity solutions with advanced data diode technology - IndustrialCyber

Fend’s data diode technology is designed to provide secure one-way communication channels for critical infrastructure. The technology utilizes optical isolation to physically block reverse transmission, ensuring that data can only flow from one network to another in a single direction. Fend’s data diodes are priced to compete with industrial firewalls and require no continuous patching, making them an attractive solution for industries that require secure online monitoring and predictive analytics.

Key Features

Fend’s data diodes offer a range of key features, including:

    • Secure one-way communication channels
      • Optical isolation for physical blocking of reverse transmission
        • No continuous patching required
          • Real-time data extraction for predictive maintenance and monitoring
            • Native support for common communication protocols
              • Designed and made in the USA
                • Easy to install

                Certifications and Awards

                Fend’s data diodes have been tested by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the US Army TSMO, and US Navy NAVFAC, and have been awarded the Department of Defense (DoD) Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) “Project of the Year”. These certifications and awards are a testament to the effectiveness and reliability of Fend’s data diode technology.

                Conclusion

                OPSWAT acquires Fend; to strengthen cybersecurity solutions with advanced data diode technology - IndustrialCyber

                In conclusion, the acquisition of Fend Incorporated by OPSWAT is a significant move that enhances OPSWAT’s capabilities in providing cybersecurity solutions for critical infrastructure. With the addition of Fend’s data diode technology, OPSWAT can now offer a comprehensive range of data diodes and unidirectional gateway solutions that utilize proprietary technology to prevent sensitive data leakage. The integration of Fend’s technology with OPSWAT’s existing offerings is expected to be seamless, and the market impact of this acquisition is expected to be significant. As companies increasingly recognize the importance of securing critical infrastructure against cyber threats and ransomware attacks, OPSWAT is poised to deliver unparalleled security solutions, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. With its expanded capabilities and commitment to innovation, OPSWAT is expected to drive growth and innovation in the cybersecurity sector, providing unmatched security for critical infrastructure around the globe.