Macquarie & Netskope: Simplified Network, Cloud & AI Security for Australia

▼ Summary
– Macquarie Telecom and Netskope have partnered to provide Australian organizations with integrated security and networking solutions for cloud and AI applications.
– The partnership combines Netskope’s Security Service Edge platform with Macquarie’s SD-WAN to deliver Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) capabilities.
– This integrated approach addresses cybersecurity threats and regulatory demands while eliminating trade-offs between security and network performance.
– Netskope’s platform is IRAP-assessed at PROTECTED level, supporting compliance with Australian government and critical infrastructure security standards.
– The collaboration aims to provide enterprise-grade security without compromising user experience, backed by both companies’ commitment to customer service.
A new strategic alliance between Macquarie Telecom and Netskope is set to transform how Australian businesses approach their network and cybersecurity needs. This partnership delivers a unified solution that integrates advanced security measures with high-performance networking, specifically designed for today’s cloud and artificial intelligence-driven environments. By bringing together Macquarie’s software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) and Netskope’s market-leading Security Service Edge (SSE) platform, the collaboration offers a comprehensive Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) framework. This allows organisations to strengthen their cyber defences without sacrificing network speed or user experience.
The integrated platform combines web, data, cloud, and AI security functions into a single, streamlined system. This consolidation not only boosts threat protection and operational efficiency but also results in significant cost savings. Australian companies have faced a rising number of serious data breaches in recent years, prompting stricter regulatory requirements and placing greater pressure on internal security teams. With this new offering, businesses can protect users and sensitive data across all locations and devices, all managed through a single provider.
An important feature of the Netskope platform is its IRAP assessment at the PROTECTED level, which authorises its use within Australian Government agencies and other critical sectors. The joint solution also supports compliance with the Security of Critical Infrastructure (SOCI) Act and aligns with the Australian Signals Directorate’s Essential Eight mitigation strategies.
Luke Clifton, Group Executive at Macquarie Telecom, highlighted the growing challenges faced by organisations. “Businesses of every size are under tremendous pressure to enhance their cybersecurity while keeping operations straightforward,” he explained. “Teaming up with Netskope allows us to provide customers with a more intelligent and resilient network, supported by fully integrated, enterprise-level security. They truly get the best of both worlds.”
Tony Burnside, Senior Vice President and Head of APAC at Netskope, pointed out the common dilemma between security and performance. “Today’s networks must be both fast and secure, yet many companies still face compromises that weaken their security stance or degrade the user experience,” he said. “Integrating networking and security has become a fundamental requirement for modern enterprises. Through this partnership with Macquarie Telecom, we will help more Australian organisations achieve stronger data protection, which in turn supports greater agility, innovation, and competitive advantage.”
Both Macquarie Telecom and Netskope are recognised for their exceptional customer service. Macquarie is known for its outstanding net promoter score (NPS) and a commitment to improving service in often overpriced and underserved markets. Netskope has redesigned enterprise security and networking architecture to ensure that robust protection does not interfere with user productivity.
“Too often, securing users and networks comes at the expense of a smooth user experience,” added Clifton. “Netskope excels because it finds the perfect equilibrium, delivering top-tier security without compromising on performance or customer satisfaction. Together, we’re providing not only best-in-class security but also the ability to maintain the superior user experiences we’re known for. That’s what makes this partnership unique.”
Netskope has been named a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Security Service Edge for four consecutive years, underscoring its market position. The company also maintains a strong existing relationship with Macquarie Government, Macquarie Telecom’s sister company, delivering SASE technology to federal government clients.
(Source: ITWire Australia)