Absolute Security acquires Phoenix Technologies' FirmGuard

Absolute Security's acquisition of FirmGuard brings together two firmware-focused capabilities. FirmGuard adds UEFI BIOS-level security, management and networking to Absolute's existing patented Absolute Persistence(R) technology, which is already embedded in more than 600 million endpoint devices through exclusive partnerships with Dell, HP and Lenovo. This combination is positioned to give enterprises a way to manage and secure devices from the firmware layer up, even when the operating system is corrupted.

The timing reflects growing concern about firmware and hardware attacks. According to an HP Wolf Security study cited in the announcement, 80% of IT and security decision-makers say AI will accelerate vulnerability exploitation, while 60% delay firmware updates and more than half cite fear of update-related issues, so-called FOMU. Because firmware starts before the OS, it is an attractive target for attackers seeking to evade security tools.

Absolute is also extending these capabilities to AI workstations and autonomous agents through collaborations with NVIDIA and HP. The first phase of integration is expected to expand management below the OS, ensure continuous firmware integrity and patching, broaden data wipe options, and provide a single console for firmware-to-cloud management.