F5 and CrowdStrike extend endpoint protection to network layer

The traditional security model of waiting for patches is becoming obsolete as exploits for newly disclosed vulnerabilities can be weaponized within hours. This rapid exploitation is driving security teams toward virtual patching, a method of shielding applications from known flaws at the network layer while official fixes are developed and deployed, according to coverage from Silicon Angle.

F5 and CrowdStrike have partnered to embed CrowdStrike's Falcon sensor directly onto F5's BIG-IP appliances, effectively extending endpoint protection to the network perimeter. This integration allows network appliances to be managed with the same security protocols as laptops or cloud workloads, with minimal performance impact of 1% to 2%. This approach addresses the shrinking window between vulnerability disclosure and exploitation, a trend exacerbated by AI-enabled adversaries whose attacks have increased significantly.

John Maddison, CMO and head of technology alliances at F5, highlighted the necessity of AI-powered security solutions that can analyze traffic in real-time to detect and prevent threats like zero-day exploits. The partnership aims to provide robust, AI-driven protection for applications and network infrastructure, ensuring security keeps pace with evolving cyber threats.

Source: Silicon Angle