AlgoSec fires Arrow into UK channel

Firewall management vendor makes first UK distribution appointment

Firewall management vendor AlgoSec has appointed Arrow ECS as its first UK distributor.

The Boston-based firm is shifting to a two-tier channel model here, claiming that Arrow can give it reach not just into large enterprises but also SMBs.

Founded in 2003, AlgoSec claims its network security policy management solutions are used by 15 of the Fortune 50.

In February it announced the latest version of its AlgoSec Security Management Suite, which is designed to streamline firewall operations and change management, ensure compliance and application availability and tighten security policies.

In December, AlgoSec appointed Bytes Security Partnerships as its fifth UK Gold partner - a tally it expects to double in 2013 - and revealed that it was looking to take on a VAD.

Paul Clark, AlgoSec's regional director for UK, Ireland, South Africa and the Middle East said: "From a standing start in 2010, we have enjoyed roughly 300 per cent growth in the UK, thanks to our channel, and by partnering with Arrow ECS we expect to further accelerate that growth.

"Its expertise in delivering solutions, value-added professional services and first-line support were key to our decision, and will be critical in helping us to fulfil market demand and uncover new opportunities."

Although estimates suggest the firewall management market is worth less than $100m globally, increasing network complexity coupled with more sophisticated threats suggest Algosec - alongside Skybox, Tufin and Firemon - are well placed for growth.

Nick Bannister, divisional director of security for Arrow ECS, said: "We are seeing increasing demand from partners and customers who want to automate security policy management and enhance protection of systems and data - especially across mixed estates using products from multiple vendors.

"AlgoSec's solutions directly address this need, helping to simplify management of a wide range of security devices and technologies, cutting complexity and increasing operational efficiency."