Palo Alto Networks has launched Cortex Cloud, an AI-driven cybersecurity platform that integrates advanced cloud detection and response (CDR) with industry-leading cloud native application protection platform (CNAPP) capabilities. The new solution enhances real-time threat prevention, automates security workflows, and ensures comprehensive cloud security across enterprises.
MALAYSIA 18 February 2025 – Palo Alto Networks, a global leader in cybersecurity, has introduced Cortex Cloud, an advanced security solution that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to combat real-time cyber threats in cloud environments. Unveiled today, Cortex Cloud represents the next evolution of Prisma Cloud, integrating cloud detection and response (CDR) with the most robust cloud native application protection platform (CNAPP) on the unified Cortex platform.
With the rapid adoption of cloud technology and artificial intelligence, cybersecurity risks are escalating. According to Unit 42® reports, 80% of security exposures originate from cloud attack surfaces, with a 66% rise in threats targeting cloud environments. In response, Cortex Cloud unifies security data, automates workflows, and applies AI-driven insights to enhance protection and reduce risks across cloud ecosystems.
AI-Driven Innovation in Cloud Security
Lee Klarich, Chief Product Officer of Palo Alto Networks, emphasized the importance of robust cloud security:
“As more critical business applications move to the cloud, security must evolve to include industry-leading runtime protection. With Cortex Cloud, we are empowering organizations to prevent, detect, investigate, and respond to threats across their entire enterprise in real time.”
Key Features of Cortex Cloud
The launch of Cortex Cloud aligns with Palo Alto Networks’ platformization strategy, enhancing security operations with persona-driven dashboards and AI-powered analytics. Notable features include:
- Application Security: Detect and prevent vulnerabilities across the entire development pipeline, ensuring secure app development before production.
- Cloud Posture Management: Improve risk assessment across multi-cloud environments with AI-powered prioritization and automated remediation.
- Cloud Runtime Security: Stop attacks instantly using AI-driven analytics and the unified Cortex XDR agent. Cortex Cloud includes CNAPP capabilities at no extra cost for runtime security customers.
- Security Operations Center (SOC): An advanced SecOps platform that integrates cloud data, context, and workflows, significantly reducing the time to respond to cyber threats.
Industry Support & Customer Adoption
Melinda Marks, Cybersecurity Practice Director at Enterprise Strategy Group, highlighted the solution’s impact:“Security teams often struggle with fragmented security tools. Cortex Cloud’s unified code-to-cloud-to-SOC approach delivers critical insights for faster detection, response, and risk mitigation.”
Existing Prisma Cloud users will receive a seamless upgrade to Cortex Cloud, while Cortex XSIAM customers can now integrate CNAPP capabilities effortlessly. The platform is set to be available by Q3 FY25.
Launch Partners & Strategic Collaboration
Palo Alto Networks is rolling out Cortex Cloud with top-tier cybersecurity partners, including CyberCX, Deloitte, IBM, and Orange Cyberdefense. These collaborations aim to accelerate SecOps transformation across cloud and enterprise infrastructures, enhancing operational efficiency and cyber resilience.
