Cylus

High-Level Overview

Cylus is a technology company specializing in cybersecurity solutions for the rail industry. Its flagship product, CylusOne, provides rail operators with real-time asset visibility, continuous monitoring, and threat detection tailored specifically for operational rail technology systems, including signaling, control networks, and onboard systems. Cylus serves mainline and urban railway companies globally, helping them prevent safety incidents and service disruptions caused by cyber-attacks, thereby ensuring operational safety and service availability[1][3][5].

The company has demonstrated strong growth momentum, expanding its presence worldwide with offices in Israel, the US, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. It has raised significant funding to accelerate R&D and global market expansion, reflecting increasing demand for specialized rail cybersecurity solutions[2][5].

Origin Story

Founded in 2017 in Tel Aviv, Israel, Cylus was co-founded by Amir Levintal (CEO) and Miki Shifman (CTO), both veterans in cybersecurity with extensive experience in complex cybersecurity projects and software engineering. The idea emerged from recognizing the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by the rail industry, which had been underserved by traditional IT security solutions. Early traction included developing CylusOne, the first-to-market rail-specific cybersecurity platform, and securing key customers globally. The company’s growth was bolstered by a $12 million Series A funding round in 2019 aimed at expanding its reach in the EU, US, and APAC markets[2][4].

Core Differentiators

• Rail-Specific Cybersecurity Expertise: Cylus combines deep knowledge of rail operations and cybersecurity, delivering solutions tailored to the unique operational technology (OT) environments of rail systems.
• CylusOne Platform: First-to-market, offering continuous monitoring, real-time threat detection, and response across heterogeneous rail systems including signaling, control, trackside, and onboard networks.
• High Accuracy with Minimal False Alarms: Proprietary IP ensures precise threat detection, reducing operational disruptions.
• Rapid Deployment: CylusOne installs in under an hour with zero downtime or safety impact.
• Global Reach and Support: Offices and representatives across multiple continents enable localized support and implementation.
• Strong Leadership Team: Founders and executives bring decades of cybersecurity and rail industry experience, recognized by industry awards and global forums[1][4][5].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Cylus rides the growing trend of operational technology cybersecurity, a critical area as rail systems become increasingly digitized and connected. The timing is crucial due to escalating cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, including transportation networks. Market forces such as regulatory pressures, safety imperatives, and digital transformation in railways favor specialized cybersecurity solutions like CylusOne. By securing rail operations, Cylus not only protects infrastructure but also supports the broader ecosystem’s resilience and trust in smart mobility technologies[1][3].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Cylus is poised to expand its influence as rail operators worldwide prioritize cybersecurity amid rising threats and regulatory demands. Trends such as increased rail automation, integration of IoT devices, and smart city initiatives will shape Cylus’s product evolution and market opportunities. The company’s ability to innovate rapidly and maintain high accuracy in threat detection will be key to sustaining its leadership. Cylus’s growing global footprint and partnerships position it to be a cornerstone in securing the future of rail transportation cybersecurity[2][5].