Google Acquires Cloud Security Leader Wiz in $32 Billion Deal
Google has confirmed its acquisition of cloud security giant Wiz in a $32 billion all-cash deal, making it one of the largest cybersecurity acquisitions in history. This move strengthens Google’s position in cloud security and expands its capabilities in protecting enterprise cloud environments.
Once the transaction is finalized, Wiz will become part of Google Cloud, joining other major security acquisitions, including Mandiant, which Google purchased for $5.4 billion in 2022. The acquisition is expected to accelerate innovation in cloud security and enhance Google’s ability to provide advanced security solutions to businesses worldwide.
Strengthening Google’s Cloud Security and Multicloud Capabilities
Google emphasized that the acquisition is a strategic investment aimed at addressing two major trends in the AI-driven cybersecurity landscape. First, it will enhance cloud security by improving threat detection and risk mitigation for enterprises. Second, it will expand multicloud capabilities, allowing businesses to operate securely across multiple cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Oracle Cloud.
Discussions about Google acquiring Wiz first surfaced in July 2024, when the deal was initially valued at $23 billion. However, Wiz declined the offer, opting instead to pursue an initial public offering (IPO) as part of its growth strategy.
By September 2024, reports indicated that Wiz was considering selling existing shares at a valuation between $15 billion and $20 billion. The company had previously raised nearly $2 billion in funding, with its last valuation at $12 billion after a $1 billion funding round. Wiz is backed by top venture capital firms, including Andreessen Horowitz, Greylock, and Sequoia Capital.
Wiz specializes in cloud security solutions that scan enterprise cloud environments to detect and fix security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals. The company’s products help organizations proactively manage their security risks and protect sensitive data.
Google has confirmed that Wiz’s security products will remain accessible across all major cloud providers. Customers will also be able to continue using Wiz’s solutions through partner security platforms, ensuring that businesses can integrate Wiz’s services regardless of their cloud provider.
Expanding Google’s Cybersecurity Portfolio
The acquisition aligns with Google’s broader cybersecurity strategy, which has focused on AI-driven security innovations and expanding its threat intelligence capabilities. Google has made several major investments in security over the past few years, aiming to provide comprehensive protection for businesses and cloud users.
Google’s cybersecurity investments include:
- Mandiant, a leading cybersecurity firm acquired for $5.4 billion in 2022.
- Siemplify, a security operations platform purchased for $500 million in 2022.
- VirusTotal, a widely used malware scanning and threat intelligence service.
Google Cloud reaffirmed its commitment to providing businesses with a diverse range of security solutions, ensuring that Wiz and other security partners remain available through the Google Cloud Marketplace.
The deal marks a significant shift in the cloud security industry, solidifying Google’s position as a leader in enterprise cybersecurity. With Wiz joining its security portfolio, Google is poised to offer businesses even stronger protection against evolving cyber threats.
