F5 Bets on Ecosystem Play with New Application Delivery and Security Platform Partner Program

NEW YORK, NY – November 19, 2025

The Shift to a Platform-Centric Future

F5, Inc. has officially launched its Application Delivery and Security Platform (ADSP) Partner Program, a move that signifies a strategic pivot for the application delivery and security leader. While traditionally a product vendor, F5 is now firmly positioning itself as a platform provider, relying on a robust ecosystem of partners to extend the capabilities of its ADSP and address the growing complexities of multicloud environments. This shift isn’t simply a rebranding exercise; it’s a fundamental change in how F5 intends to deliver value to its customers.

The program introduces seven initial ‘Select’ partners – AppViewX, CrowdStrike, DigiCert, Kasm Technologies, Keyfactor, MazeBolt, and OPSWAT – each bringing specialized solutions to integrate seamlessly with the F5 ADSP. According to one industry analyst, “F5 recognizes that no single vendor can solve all the challenges organizations face in today’s complex IT landscapes. This program is a recognition of that reality, and a smart move to leverage the expertise of best-of-breed partners.”

Addressing the Multicloud Security Imperative

Multicloud adoption continues to surge, driven by the desire for flexibility, resilience, and access to innovative services. However, this proliferation of cloud environments introduces significant security challenges. Maintaining consistent security policies, visibility, and compliance across disparate clouds is a major concern for organizations. F5’s ADSP Partner Program directly addresses these concerns through key integrations designed to enhance security at every layer.

The integration of CrowdStrike's Falcon platform, for example, brings AI-powered threat detection and response to the network edge, extending security beyond traditional endpoints. This is particularly crucial in multicloud environments where security perimeters are often blurred. Similarly, the partnership with Keyfactor automates certificate lifecycle management, reducing the risk of outages caused by expired certificates – a common vulnerability in complex IT environments. Another analyst stated, “Security is paramount in multicloud environments, and F5 is clearly prioritizing that with these integrations. The ability to extend security intelligence and automation across multiple clouds is a significant differentiator.”

Streamlining Operations and Accelerating Delivery

Beyond security, the ADSP Partner Program also aims to simplify multicloud operations and accelerate application delivery. Managing applications and infrastructure across multiple clouds can be incredibly complex and time-consuming. The program’s integrations are designed to automate key tasks, reduce manual errors, and improve overall efficiency.

The integration of AppViewX, for instance, automates certificate management and network configuration, streamlining operations and reducing the burden on IT teams. Kasm Technologies' integration modernizes Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) setups, enabling secure and scalable virtual workspaces, supporting agile and flexible work models. “IT teams are under immense pressure to deliver applications faster and more efficiently,” said one IT infrastructure manager. “Any tool or platform that can help automate tasks and reduce complexity is a welcome addition.” MazeBolt's contribution through automated DDoS testing helps identify vulnerabilities before they are exploited, reducing operational risk. This proactive approach is a significant advantage in today’s threat landscape.

The program moves beyond simply offering integrated tools; it's about delivering a cohesive platform that simplifies the entire application delivery lifecycle. This includes everything from initial configuration and deployment to ongoing monitoring and security.

The Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook

The move towards a platform-centric approach is not unique to F5. Many technology vendors are recognizing the need to build robust ecosystems and offer integrated solutions. However, F5’s long-standing expertise in application delivery and security gives it a significant advantage. The company’s deep understanding of application traffic patterns and security threats allows it to curate a partner ecosystem that truly addresses the needs of its customers.

While competitors like Citrix and NGINX (now part of F5) also offer partner programs, F5’s ADSP Partner Program stands out for its focus on deep integration and automation. The company’s commitment to delivering a cohesive platform, rather than simply a collection of loosely coupled tools, sets it apart from the competition. “F5 has a strong track record of innovation in application delivery and security,” said another analyst. “This partner program is a natural extension of that legacy.”

Looking ahead, F5 is expected to continue expanding its partner ecosystem and adding new integrations. The company is also likely to focus on emerging technologies, such as AI and machine learning, to further enhance the capabilities of its ADSP and deliver even greater value to its customers. The evolution of the program will be critical to F5’s success in the increasingly competitive landscape.