Ken Xie is the co-founder and CEO of Fortinet, a leading cybersecurity firm that offers comprehensive solutions including firewalls and cloud security services. Born in Beijing, China, and holding American citizenship, Xie has significantly impacted the cybersecurity industry through his entrepreneurial journey, which began with founding software firewall business Systems Integration Solutions (SIS) in 1993, followed by NetScreen Technologies, and eventually Fortinet in 2000.
Who is the CEO of Fortinet?
Ken Xie, a renowned cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur, has a rich educational background. Before founding Fortinet, Xie established Systems Integration Solutions (SIS) in 1993 and later co-founded NetScreen Technologies in 1996, where he developed the first ASIC-based firewall/VPN appliance.
As the Founder, Chairman of the Board, and CEO of Fortinet, Xie has led the company to become a global leader in cybersecurity, serving a vast majority of the Fortune 100 and governments worldwide. His innovative and forward-thinking leadership style has significantly impacted the cybersecurity industry, contributing to the development and adoption of advanced security solutions, including firewalls and cloud security services.
Work History
- Telstra, Senior AEM/Java Developer: 2016 - present
- Telstra, Senior Liferay/Java Developer: 2014 - 2016
- Pickles Auctions, Senior Liferay/Java Developer: 2013 - 2014
- Telstra, Senior Java Developer: 2010 - 2013
- Hyro, Senior Java Developer: 2010
- InterAcct Solutions, Senior Java Developer: 2007 - 2010
- China Telecom, Java Developer: 2001 - 2005
Education History
Ken Xie's educational background includes a Diploma in Computer Application and a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, both from Guangxi Normal University. He pursued these degrees concurrently, completing them between 1994 and 1998. This strong foundation in both computer applications and physics has undoubtedly contributed to his success in the technology industry, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity and Java development.
When did Ken Xie join Fortinet?
Ken Xie co-founded Fortinet in 2000 and has been serving as its CEO since the company's inception. As of 2024, Xie has been with Fortinet for approximately 24 years. Under his leadership, Fortinet has grown significantly, going public on the Nasdaq in 2009 and achieving $4.4 billion in revenue in 2022. As the founder, chairman, and CEO, Xie has played a pivotal role in shaping the cybersecurity industry and has led Fortinet to become a global leader in providing advanced security solutions.