Palo Alto Networks Acquires AI Startup Console
Cybersecurity giant Palo Alto Networks has acquired Console, a two-year-old AI-powered help desk startup.
Cybersecurity firm Palo Alto Networks has acquired Console, a startup that automates routine IT help desk tasks using artificial intelligence, in a cash and stock transaction.
Acquisition Process and Details
Palo Alto Networks paid a total of $500 million in cash and stock to acquire Console, an AI startup that automates routine IT help desk tasks.
Although the two companies made the official announcement on Tuesday, they did not publicly disclose the terms of the agreement, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Investments and Valuation
Having raised a total of $29 million across two rounds since its inception, the company had a valuation of $157 million prior to the sale, according to PitchBook data.
Investors included SV Angel, Abstract Ventures, and Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora, who participated in the process as an angel investor.
Integration into the Cortex Platform
The cybersecurity giant announced that it will integrate Console's AI technology into its Cortex platform, which automatically detects and neutralizes threats.
Console's agent functionality enabled security teams to investigate and resolve alerts using natural language.
Startup History and Services
Founded by Andrei Serban, Console was launched shortly after Fuzzbuzz, a code security platform previously acquired by Rippling.
The startup automated tasks such as password resets, granting application access, and routine troubleshooting without direct human intervention.
Market Competition
Console competed in the market with Serval, which reached a $1 billion valuation after securing a $75 million Series B round led by Sequoia.
Following this acquisition move, Serval remained the prominent category leader among startups automating IT service management.
Other Acquisitions of the Year
According to PitchBook data, Console marked Palo Alto Networks' seventh acquisition move in 2026.
Earlier in the year, the company also acquired Chronosphere at a $3.35 billion valuation and the startup Koi for $400 million.