Palo Alto Networks Acquires AI IT Support Startup Console for $500 Million

Palo Alto Networks has acquired Console, an AI startup that builds autonomous agents for IT support and security operations, in a deal reportedly worth $500 million in cash and stock.

The cybersecurity company announced the acquisition but did not disclose financial terms. According to people familiar with the transaction, the deal gives Palo Alto Networks access to Console’s AI-powered automation technology, which is designed to handle routine IT help desk tasks with minimal human involvement.

Palo Alto Networks Adds AI Agents to Cortex Platform

Palo Alto Networks said it will integrate Console into its Cortex security platform, which uses artificial intelligence to detect and respond to cyber threats. The company said Console’s agent-based technology will help security teams investigate and resolve alerts using natural language.

Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora said Console’s technology will help expand Cortex’s ability to deliver more autonomous security operations across enterprise environments.

Console’s Rapid Growth Before Acquisition

Founded in 2024, Console raised $29 million before the acquisition. The startup secured a $6.2 million seed round led by Thrive Capital and a $23 million Series A co-led by DST Global and Thrive Capital.

Before the acquisition, Console was valued at $157 million, according to PitchBook. Investors included SV Angel, Abstract Ventures, and Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora, who invested as an angel investor.

Andrei Serban founded Console after his previous startup, code security platform Fuzzbuzz, was acquired by Rippling. The company built AI agents that could automate tasks such as password resets, application access requests, and routine troubleshooting.

AI Automation Race in Enterprise IT

Console served customers including Ramp, Flock Safety, and Scale AI, competing in the growing market for AI-powered IT service management tools. Another startup in the space, Serval, expanded beyond IT support into areas such as human resources, legal, and finance after raising significant venture funding.

The acquisition marks Palo Alto Networks’ seventh acquisition of 2026, according to PitchBook. The cybersecurity company has also acquired other venture-backed technology companies, including observability platform Chronosphere and cybersecurity startup Koi.

The Console deal reflects the increasing focus among cybersecurity companies on using AI agents to automate enterprise operations and improve security workflows.