Palo Alto Networks Launches Cortex Cloud: Revolutionizing Real-Time Cloud Security with AI and Automation
Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), a global leader in cybersecurity, has unveiled Cortex® Cloud, the next evolution of its Prisma Cloud platform. This groundbreaking solution integrates cutting-edge Cloud Detection and Response (CDR) and Cloud Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) capabilities into a unified, AI-driven platform. Designed to address the growing complexities of cloud security, Cortex Cloud empowers organizations to detect, prevent, and respond to threats in real time, moving beyond traditional “peace time” security measures.
With Unit 42® research revealing that 80% of security exposures occur in cloud environments and a 66% increase in cloud-targeted threats, the need for advanced cloud security has never been more critical. Cortex Cloud addresses these challenges by unifying data, automating workflows, and leveraging AI-driven insights to reduce risk and stop attacks as they happen. The platform also integrates with third-party tools, providing centralized visibility and end-to-end remediation across the entire cloud security ecosystem.
Key Features of Cortex Cloud
Cortex Cloud is built on Palo Alto Networks’ platformization strategy, delivering a unified user experience with persona-driven dashboards and workflows. Here’s how it’s transforming cloud security:
- Application Security:
Cortex Cloud enables organizations to build secure applications by identifying and prioritizing risks across the development pipeline. With end-to-end context across code, runtime, and cloud environments, it prevents vulnerabilities from becoming exploitable threats. - Cloud Posture Management:
The platform enhances multi-cloud risk management with AI-powered prioritization, guided fixes, and automated remediation. It offers a seamless user experience by integrating all of Prisma Cloud’s posture management capabilities. - Cloud Runtime Protection:
Cortex Cloud stops attacks in real time by natively integrating the Cortex XDR agent with enriched cloud data sources. It includes CNAPP capabilities at no additional cost, ensuring comprehensive runtime protection and maximizing adoption of end-to-end cloud security. - Security Operations Center (SOC) Integration:
As the preferred SOC platform for enterprise and cloud environments, Cortex Cloud integrates cloud data, context, and workflows within Cortex XSIAM. This significantly reduces Mean Time to Respond (MTTR) and provides a unified SecOps solution.
Industry-Leading Innovation
Lee Klarich, Chief Product Officer at Palo Alto Networks, emphasized the importance of Cortex Cloud in today’s cloud-first world:
“As critical business applications move to the cloud, runtime protection becomes essential. Cortex Cloud delivers the next generation of cloud security, enabling organizations to prevent, detect, investigate, and respond to threats across their entire enterprise. By including CNAPP at no additional cost, we’re making end-to-end cloud security more accessible than ever.”
Addressing the Challenges of Siloed Security
According to Melinda Marks, Practice Director of Cybersecurity at Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG), siloed tools and processes have historically hindered remediation efficiency.
“Cortex Cloud bridges the gap between application security, cloud security, and SOC operations. By providing a unified code-to-cloud-to-SOC platform, it empowers security teams to prioritize high-impact actions, reduce risk, and accelerate detection and response.”
Seamless Customer Transition
Existing Prisma Cloud customers will experience a seamless upgrade to Cortex Cloud, gaining access to enhanced real-time cloud security capabilities. Additionally, Cortex XSIAM customers can now adopt CNAPP features natively integrated into the platform. Cortex Cloud is set to be available to customers in Q3 FY25.
Introducing Cortex Cloud Launch Partners
Palo Alto Networks has partnered with industry leaders, including CyberCX, Deloitte, IBM, and Orange Cyberdefense, to drive the adoption of Cortex Cloud. These collaborations aim to deliver end-to-end SecOps transformation, enabling organizations to achieve superior risk reduction, rapid threat prevention, and operational efficiency.
Why Cortex Cloud Matters
As cloud adoption and AI usage continue to grow, the attack surface for organizations expands exponentially. Cortex Cloud addresses this by unifying data, automating workflows, and applying AI-driven insights to deliver real-time protection. By consolidating multiple security functions into a single platform, it reduces complexity, lowers total cost of ownership, and enhances overall security effectiveness.
Join the Revolution in Cloud Security
To learn more about Cortex Cloud and how Palo Alto Networks is redefining real-time cloud security, visit their blog and register for Symphony 2025, Cortex’s annual signature event.
About Palo Alto Networks
Palo Alto Networks is the global leader in cybersecurity, dedicated to making each day safer than the last. Powered by Precision AI, the company delivers industry-leading solutions in network security, cloud security, and security operations. Its platformization approach integrates diverse security solutions into a unified, scalable platform, streamlining management and providing comprehensive protection. From defending network perimeters to safeguarding cloud environments and enabling rapid incident response, Palo Alto Networks empowers businesses to achieve Zero Trust security and confidently navigate the evolving threat landscape.
With Cortex Cloud, Palo Alto Networks continues to lead the charge in innovation, ensuring organizations can embrace digital transformation securely and efficiently.
