Global consulting firm Cognizant is strengthening its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) services through a newly formed partnership with Zscaler, a prominent cloud security provider. This collaboration aims to enhance security for businesses by implementing an AI-enabled zero trust cloud security platform, addressing critical vulnerabilities in corporate infrastructure. The announcement was made public by Cognizant, highlighting the strategic importance of this alliance.

Founded in 2007, Zscaler is headquartered in the United States and has established itself as a leader in cloud-based security solutions, dedicated to safeguarding enterprise networks and sensitive data. The company's Zero Trust Exchange platform, which has been operational since 2023, is designed to provide cyberthreat protection, data security, zero trust connectivity, and business analytics services. Cognizant notes that integrating Zscaler's capabilities can bridge significant security gaps, as traditional network security schemes often fall short in offering genuine zero trust frameworks, thereby increasing the likelihood of cyberattacks.

Cognizant's expanded partnership with Zscaler seeks to simplify and transform security measures for enterprises across various sectors, utilising an advanced, AI-driven platform to combat the evolving threats in the cyber landscape. The partnership will enable Cognizant and Zscaler to deliver coordinated solutions and services aimed at reducing security complexities, enhancing overall security posture, and providing effective and expedient outcomes.

Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant, addressed the pressing challenges faced by enterprises in a statement: “Increasing operational costs, skill shortages, and evolving cyber threats continue to be significant challenges for enterprises, CxOs, and corporate boards. Generative AI adds new dimensions to the scale and complexity of securing modern applications used by a technology-native workforce eager to unlock the value of unclassified, unvetted data.” He further expressed the commitment of both companies to deliver innovative, AI-enabled solutions that keep clients ahead of security risks.

This partnership is a continuation of Cognizant's proactive measures in the AI sector; earlier this year, the consultancy began collaborating with Nvidia to modernise its cloud and data services and introduced Cognizant WorkNext, a generative service aimed at assisting clients in integrating advanced technologies into their workflows.

As the collaboration progresses, Zscaler anticipates onboarding new clients with the assistance of Cognizant. Jay Chaudhry, founder and CEO of Zscaler, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are excited to not only welcome Cognizant as a new Zscaler customer but also deepen our collaboration to help enterprises accelerate their Zero Trust security initiatives.” He noted that traditional perimeter-based security methods do not effectively achieve true zero trust, leaving networks vulnerable to breaches. The objective of the partnership is to substantially mitigate risk for mutual clients and offer comprehensive security solutions tailored to the needs of a mobile workforce and cloud-centric businesses undergoing digital transformations.

With the growing reliance on digital infrastructures, the integration of AI in security solutions represents a significant trend that is likely to shape the future of business practices across various industries.

Source: Noah Wire Services