The CEDIA Propel program has expanded to address a vital ongoing topic for integrators and their customers by bringing in cybersecurity specialist guardDog.ai to join its portfolio of partner brands.

An emerging provider of cybersecurity protection for customers and businesses, guardDog made a splash on the show floor during CEDIA Expo 2021 in Indianapolis by garnering the coveted TechStarter award. The company fits right into CEDIA Propel, which connects CEDIA members to emerging trends, special offers and innovative technology.

Through Propel, CEDIA members can access exclusive discounts on guardDog’s products and service plans, including client monitoring services, among a suite of other benefits. 

“CEDIA strives to keep the industry on the cutting-edge of technology and emerging trends, including cybersecurity,” says Ian Bryant, CEDIA senior director of strategic partnerships.

“guardDog is a perfect example of a new, innovative technology that aligns with the mission of the CEDIA Propel program and offers value to the entire CI channel. We are excited for CEDIA members to gain exclusive access to guardDog’s solutions and support and to feel pride in the benefits and security that they will now be able to offer their clients.”

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Other partner brands among the roster of CEDIA Propel, which launched in the fall of 2020, include Autoslide (automated sliding doors), Immersive Gym (fitness & AV) and Zuma (sound/light) as the affinity program has addressed growing health & wellness and expanded IoT integration possibilities, as well as Amazon discounts.

CEDIA Members Can Capitalize on guardDog Certification & Training

Integrator and individual CEDIA members who sign up through CEDIA Propel can take advantage of free guardDog certification and training opportunities to develop their skillset and familiarity with the brand.

Members will also receive access to new product developments and white-glove installation, set up, and monitoring. If additional support is needed, members can reach out to guardDog directly through a dedicated technical and sales hotline specifically for CEDIA members. 

“guardDog underwent an extensive nine-month vetting process by CEDIA staff and volunteers,” says Kelly Ryan, guardDog.ai executive director of business development. “Among other things, this led to our successful addition of AI protection to the CEDIA global headquarters.”

Exhibiting as part of the Launchpad area at CEDIA Expo 2021 in Indy last fall, Ryan and guardDog impressed the TechStarter judges and among other perks earned a $5,000 award.

“We think we won because we have an amazing technology that fits into every home, office or commercial enterprise – everywhere from the luxury home, the everyday home to the FBI, the military, NSA and everybody in between,” Ryan said during the Expo.

Available worldwide, guardDog uses AI-driven network overlay technology to find and protect attempted cyberattacks in less than two milliseconds, according to the company. guardDog’s Fido and accompanying Protective Cloud Services help consumers, small business owners, and large enterprises to mitigate threats to their growing array of networked devices without having to hire dedicated IT support. 

“We are honored to connect with CEDIA members through the Propel program, to bring enterprise level cybersecurity protection to their clients through our affordable, easy-to-install and autonomous managed detection and response solutions,” Ryan adds. 

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