Abacode: A Decade of Dedication to Cybersecurity

Co-founded by Rolando Torres and Michael Ferris, Abacode has carved a niche in the cybersecurity industry, championing the protection of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Over the last ten years, Abacode has transitioned from addressing basic cybersecurity challenges to becoming a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) with a robust focus on Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, the company offers 24/7 security operations center (SOC) monitoring and a suite of professional services, including vulnerability and risk assessments, penetration testing, and compliance framework implementations.

“At our core, we aim to protect our clients not just from today’s cyber threats but also to position them for compliance-driven market opportunities,” says Torres, Abacode’s Chief Security Officer.

A Holistic and Agile Approach:

Abacode’s unique value proposition lies in its ability to meet clients where they are in their cybersecurity journey. The company adopts a vendor-agnostic strategy, utilizing best-in-class tools from providers like Microsoft, CrowdStrike, and others to customize solutions tailored to each client’s needs. This flexibility, coupled with a business-focused mindset, differentiates Abacode in an increasingly crowded market.

“Many vendors offer one-size-fits-all solutions. We stand out by acting as an extension of our clients’ teams, reducing noise and addressing alert fatigue while focusing on business outcomes,” Torres explains.

A People-First Culture:

Abacode’s success is underpinned by its exceptional team of nearly 75 employees, all of whom are based in the United States. With a diverse group of professionals ranging from SOC analysts and penetration testers to compliance specialists, the company emphasizes continuous learning and certification. Partnerships with Florida-based universities like USF, UCF, and UT have been instrumental in attracting top-tier talent.

Torres acknowledges the importance of investing in people, stating, “Cybersecurity is a team sport. Building a winning team is not just about hiring; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and growth.”

Driving Innovation and Overcoming Challenges:

Abacode’s commitment to innovation is evident in the development of its proprietary platform, SCOUT™, for third-party risk monitoring, allowing companies to proactively manage potential vulnerabilities in their third-party ecosystem. This tool enables clients to proactively address vulnerabilities in their vendors ecosystem, a critical need in today’s interconnected business landscape.

Despite its growth, Abacode faces challenges like increased competition and pricing pressures. However, Torres remains optimistic. “The cybersecurity landscape is evolving, but so are we. With AI and new technologies on the horizon, we’re prepared to adapt and maintain our leadership position.”

The Role of Florida in Abacode’s Growth:

Being headquartered in Florida has significantly contributed to Abacode’s growth. The state’s strong educational institutions and vibrant business ecosystem have provided a steady stream of talent and networking opportunities. Additionally, the absence of state income tax and Florida’s pro-business policies have bolstered the company’s competitive edge.

“Florida’s sense of community among businesses is unparalleled,” Torres notes. “Our involvement with initiatives like Cyber Florida and Tampa Bay Tech has been invaluable in building relationships and fostering innovation.”

Recognition and Future Aspirations:

Being named a GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree is a milestone for Abacode. Torres reflects on the significance of this recognition: “It validates our hard work and reinforces our commitment to excellence. This award is a testament to the dedication of our team and the trust our clients place in us.”

Looking ahead, Abacode plans to continue its accelerated growth trajectory, expand its Scout platform, and maintain its focus on delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity and compliance solutions.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

For those embarking on their entrepreneurial journey, Torres emphasizes the importance of teamwork and adaptability. “Entrepreneurship isn’t about going it alone. Build a strong team, plan strategically, and be ready to pivot when needed.”

As Abacode moves forward, its mission remains clear: to provide unparalleled cybersecurity solutions while empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of compliance and risk management. With a decade of success behind them and a future filled with opportunities, Abacode is poised to lead the charge in making the digital world safer for all.