Google’s acquisition of Wiz highlights ‘critical role’ of cloud-native orgs in security

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., and NEW YORK — Google’s recently announced plans to acquire Wiz Inc., a cloud-security platform, will reshape the broader security ecosystem, according to an industry source.

Parent company Alphabet’s expensive gamble – the deal will cost a reported $32 billion, its most expensive to date – reflects its high hopes for the combination of Google Cloud and Wiz and its approach to an AI-fueled security services market. 

“Alphabet's acquisition of Wiz highlights the critical role cloud-native organizations play in today’s security landscape,” said Bastiaan Janmaat, managing director at Linse Capital, a venture capital firm focused on deep-tech companies. “The cloud is driving new levels of efficiency for security teams, especially within large enterprises, by making it easy to automate firmware updates and push out the latest features across all of an organization's devices. As more organizations adopt cloud-first strategies, advanced AI and automation capabilities across cybersecurity and physical security becomes even more essential. It’ll be interesting to see how this move shapes the broader security ecosystem.” 

This acquisition positions Google Cloud to compete with rivals Amazon and Microsoft in tackling cloud security and multi-cloud services. 

In a press release, Google discussed the increased role of AI and the adoption of cloud services as having dramatically changed the security landscape and making cybersecurity a priority for its customers. 

“Wiz delivers an easy-to-use security platform that connects to all major clouds and code environments to help prevent cybersecurity incidents,” the company wrote. “Organizations of all sizes — from start-ups and large enterprises to governments and public sector organizations — can use Wiz to protect everything they build and run in the cloud.”  

Wiz's products will reportedly continue to work and be available across all major clouds, including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Oracle Cloud platforms, and will be offered to customers through an array of partner security solutions. Google Cloud will also continue to offer customers a variety of partner security solutions available in the Google Cloud Marketplace. 

Google LLC previously tried to buy Wiz for $23 billion in 2024. At the time, Wiz declined the offer and, instead, moved to pursue an initial public offering. 

The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.