Digital security company renaming

In stark contrast to its competitors, Netforts offered technology that could identify flaws in network security before they caused problems. The company wanted a new name (and exact dot-com domain) that played to this prescient proactivity. FireEye, the name created by Catchword, conveys Sauron-like, all-seeing vigilance, and enabled the company to seamlessly diversify and expand.

In a category where company names evoke checkpoints, shields, warfare, and fortifications, FireEye—stemming from Eye of the Fire, an ancient Germanic rune that gave its goddess omniscience—pushes against expected cybersecurity motifs. A highly iconic name with an uncanny ability to evoke a bright yet eerie image and a deep connection to ancient lore, FireEye singes itself into memory.

The company has played a significant role in detecting high-profile vulnerabilities at Microsoft, Facebook, and other major corporations, and has been credited with preventing major cyber attacks. As of 2020, FireEye had more than 10,000 customers across 103 countries, including more than 50% of the Forbes Global 2000.

FireEye merged with other cybersecurity giant McAfee Enterprise in 2021. The new company is on its way to becoming the leader in XDR (extended detection and response) technology by combining offerings from the two formerly separate companies into an interoperable suite.