SSS launches managed security service in New Zealand

Scientific Software and Systems has launched a managed security services offering in New Zealand with Palo Alto Networks, aimed at public sector bodies and mid-market commercial organisations.

The service combines SSS's security operations and local support with Palo Alto Networks' Cortex XDR, Cortex XSIAM and Prisma Access platforms. It is intended to help organisations address fragmented security systems, procurement complexity and limited internal resources.

Founded in 1985, SSS provides managed security services, consulting, engineering, cybersecurity infrastructure and support from offices in Wellington and Auckland. The launch builds on four decades of local work in security architecture, deployment and Security Operations Centre services.

The arrangement gives customers a single managed route to procurement, system design and support in New Zealand. It is available to central government, local councils and commercial organisations.

Local focus

Luke Taylor, Chief Executive Officer at Scientific Software and Systems, said many organisations had built their security environments tool by tool.

"NZ businesses are running security tools bought one at a time, and the gaps between those tools are where the risk sits. Consolidating onto a single platform helps close the gaps. Running that platform from a New Zealand SOC keeps the judgement local. Palo Alto Networks brings the platform. SSS brings 40 years of local delivery and the people who operate it every day," Taylor said.

The launch reflects a broader push by technology suppliers and service providers to simplify cyber defence operations for customers without large in-house teams. Public sector organisations and smaller commercial businesses in New Zealand face growing pressure to manage more security tools while keeping costs and staffing under control.

For Palo Alto Networks, the partnership extends its route to market in New Zealand through a local managed services provider with an established customer base. SSS is part of its NextWave Partner Program and has met the requirements for its MSSP Innovator designation.

Vasely Sapunov, Head of Ecosystems and Enterprise at Palo Alto Networks New Zealand, said the partnership was intended to make the company's security platform more accessible to a wider range of organisations.

"SSS has a long record as a trusted security partner and MSSP for clients across New Zealand. Together, we are making enterprise-grade platform security practical for local councils, SMBs and commercial organisations. Customers get access to leading technology and local expertise to run it, delivering protection and long-term resilience," Sapunov said.

The service enters a market where customers are increasingly looking to reduce the number of separate security products they operate. Vendors and service providers argue that a more consolidated approach can make it easier to detect threats, manage incidents and oversee remote access, especially when teams are stretched.

SSS will provide local delivery and support, alongside operating security services from a New Zealand Security Operations Centre. Palo Alto Networks is supplying the underlying products for threat detection, security operations and access management.

The launch adds to competition in New Zealand's managed security market, where providers are seeking to combine global cyber platforms with local implementation and support. SSS is positioning the service around domestic delivery, public sector demand and customers looking to replace a patchwork of tools with a single managed arrangement.

Palo Alto Networks security platforms supported by SSS are now available across New Zealand to government bodies, councils and commercial customers.