Intel and Fortinet collaborate to develop next-generation security processor

Intel and Fortinet have announced a strategic collaboration to develop Fortinet's Security Processor 6 (SP6), combining the chipmaker's advanced semiconductor design, packaging and manufacturing capabilities with Fortinet's proprietary security processor expertise.

The two companies said the partnership aims to produce a highly integrated security processor capable of supporting sophisticated security services and demanding performance requirements. It will also, they said, improve the resilience and diversity of Fortinet's global supply chain.

The SP6 collaboration draws on Intel's disaggregated semiconductor design know-how and packaging solutions suited to both AI-enabled and cost-sensitive applications.

"As organisations face a rapidly evolving threat landscape, security infrastructure must deliver both performance and innovation at scale," said Lip-Bu Tan, chief executive at Intel.

"This collaboration demonstrates how Intel's semiconductor leadership and advanced design, packaging, and manufacturing capabilities can help cybersecurity leaders like Fortinet accelerate the development of critical security technologies while building a more resilient and diversified global supply chain."

“Fortinet’s purpose-built ASICs have been a key differentiator for more than two decades, enabling us to deliver the security effectiveness, performance, and efficiency our customers demand," Ken Xie, founder, chairman and chief executive at Fortinet, said.

"This expanded relationship with Intel will leverage its unique combination of advanced semiconductor technology, manufacturing expertise, and global supply chain capabilities, helping Fortinet accelerate and strengthen our ASIC strategy, while also better supporting organisations all over the world.”

The companies said they would explore further opportunities to deepen collaboration across semiconductor technology, manufacturing and the infrastructure underpinning future cybersecurity innovation, with the work expected to advance Fortinet's long-term ASIC roadmap and support greater supply chain assurance for customers.