Palo Alto Networks has bought Console, a two‑year‑old AI‑driven IT help‑desk automation startup, for $500 million, leaving Sequoia‑backed Serval as the de facto leader in AI IT service automation.

  • Palo Alto Networks acquired Console for $500 million.
  • Console uses AI agents to automate routine IT help‑desk tasks.
  • The deal positions Serval as the category leader in AI‑IT service automation.

Palo Alto Networks paid $500 million in cash and stock to acquire Console, a two‑year‑old startup that uses AI agents to automate routine IT help‑desk tasks.

Console’s Background

Founded in 2024, Console raised $29 million across two rounds: a $6.2 million seed led by Thrive Capital and a $23 million Series A co‑led by DST Global and Thrive.

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Prior to the sale, PitchBook valued Console at $157 million, delivering rapid returns for investors such as SV Angel, Abstract Ventures, and Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora, who was an early angel backer.

Product Offering and Customers

Console’s AI agents automate password resets, grant access to apps like Figma and Miro, and handle routine troubleshooting without human intervention. Customers include Ramp, Flock Safety, and Scale AI.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this acquisition will significantly strengthen Palo Alto Networks' AI capabilities in enterprise security and IT service automation.

"The acquisition of Console by Palo Alto Networks is a strategic move to enhance its AI‑driven security and service management portfolio."
Did You Know?: This is Palo Alto Networks' seventh acquisition in 2026, underscoring its aggressive expansion strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does Console do?
  • Why did Palo Alto Networks acquire Console?