Networking equipment manufacturer Cisco on Thursday announced its intention to acquire Sentryo, a France-based cybersecurity software developer backed by IT consultancy Sopra Steria and connected technology producer Reply, for an undisclosed amount.
Founded in 2014, Sentryo has developed artificial intelligence-powered software that helps corporations in industrial markets – such as energy, oil and gas, manufacturing, building management and transportation – identify vulnerabilities in their networks.
Cisco will combine its network architecture with the company’s technology to help customers manage networks and devices, protect their data and enable collaboration across IT and operational technology departments.
In December 2018, Sentryo raised $11.3m in a series A round that featured Sopra Steria and Breed Reply, the corporate venturing subsidiary of Reply, as well as BNP Paribas Développement, a subsidiary of financial services firm BNP Paribas.
Omnes, Alliance Entreprendre, Ace Management and Kreaxi filled out the series A round, after the latter two had already backed a $2.2m seed round in 2016 that was led by Breed Reply.
Rob Salvagno, head of corporate development and Cisco’s venturing unit, said: “We believe that connectivity is foundational to internet of zhings projects and by unleashing the power of the network we can dramatically improve operational efficiencies and uncover new business opportunities.
“With the addition of Sentryo, Cisco can offer control systems engineers deeper visibility into assets to optimise, detect anomalies and secure their networks.”