Opswat acquires Fend to enhance cybersecurity for infrastructure

OPSWAT has announced the acquisition of Fend, a data pipeline and cybersecurity firm, to enhance its cybersecurity offerings for critical infrastructure protection.

Fend, based in Arlington, Virginia, specialises in securing operational technology against cyber threats, with experience in protecting sectors like U.S. government agencies, utilities, and manufacturing. The transaction is seen to bolster OPSWAT's capabilities in Data Diodes and Unidirectional Gateway Solutions.

Data diode technology is acknowledged for providing secure, one-way communication channels, preventing external access and reverse data transmission. This technology is gaining traction due to its relevance in high-security environments like industrial control systems and critical infrastructure.

Historically reserved for secure environments like nuclear power, data diodes are now considered more accessible and affordable. They offer benefits such as enhanced operational efficiency and predictive analytics, making them viable for modern industries.

Benny Czarny, CEO and Founder of OPSWAT, stated, "Fend's solutions are a strategic addition to our portfolio, allowing OPSWAT to deliver unparalleled security for customers' most critical assets. This strategic move broadens OPSWAT's existing product offering that includes high-speed data diodes and unidirectional gateway solutions to mobile, cell-based, cloud-based, and ruggedized products to support more critical infrastructure needs."

Colin Dunn, CEO and Founder of Fend, expressed excitement about the acquisition, saying, "Joining OPSWAT represents a significant opportunity for Fend, allowing us to offer customers an even broader range of cyber defenses. Together, we can provide unmatched security for critical infrastructure around the globe, ensuring resilience against sophisticated cyber threats."

The acquisition was facilitated by Trafalgar Capital Partners, with Frantz Casseus, Founder & Managing Director, commenting, "We're proud to have supported Fend Incorporated through this transaction with OPSWAT. By integrating Fend's pioneering, cutting-edge data diode technology, OPSWAT is poised to deliver unparalleled solutions for secure data transfer and advanced threat protection, enhancing its leadership in critical infrastructure."

OPSWAT's industrial OT offerings have expanded, notably since their 2021 acquisition of Bayshore Networks. This growth continues to extend with Fend, enhancing OPSWAT's capability to provide secure solutions for distributed deployments, including water utilities that require robust security at numerous endpoints.

Fend's connectivity options will allow OPSWAT to cater to both emerging technologies and existing legacy infrastructure globally, utilizing connections like Ethernet, cellular, and serial for older networks, thus accommodating industry advancements like 5G and Industry 4.0.

The acquisition follows OPSWAT's earlier purchase of InQuest this year, further signaling its strategic growth momentum in the cybersecurity landscape, with an eye on broadening its comprehensive end-to-end solutions platform.