The NHL has announced a new multi-year deal with Palo Alto Networks, a company known for keeping computer systems safe. The goal? To make sure the entire league — including teams, staff, and fans — stays protected from online threats.

Palo Alto Networks has worked with the NHL since 2009, but this new partnership takes things further. The NHL now uses Palo Alto’s latest firewalls, cloud protection, and smart tools powered by AI to block cyberattacks. League employees can also safely use the internet and AI tools, thanks to Palo Alto’s special security systems.

“In our mission to keep fans and the league safe, we’ve found a true partner in Palo Alto Networks,” said Dave Munroe, NHL’s Senior Vice President of IT and Cybersecurity. “We continue to stay ahead of the game with Palo Alto Networks cloud, network, and security operations solutions. The addition of this partnership underscores the strength of our commitment to continued innovation in areas such as AI and digital transformation.”

Palo Alto Networks also gets marketing perks from the deal. Its name and brand will be seen more often through the NHL’s digital and social media channels.

“We’re excited to grow this partnership,” said KP Unnikrishnan, Chief Marketing Officer at Palo Alto Networks. “We’re proud to help protect the NHL and keep things running smoothly.

“Like us, the NHL is always innovating and we are thrilled to embark on this partnership evolution. Through our platformization approach, we are committed to helping keep the NHL secure. We are proud to stand alongside the NHL as their trusted cybersecurity partner and look forward to continuing to deliver value to the NHL’s business while seizing the opportunities of this deepened relationship.”

This partnership means stronger protection for NHL systems, faster responses to online threats, and a safer experience for fans watching and interacting with the league online.