Cyber for Builders: The Essential Guide to Building a Cybersecurity Startup

Most cybersecurity books are written for hackers, security leaders and practitioners, and a general audience. This book is different as it is intended first and foremost for builders - startup founders, security engineers, marketing and sales teams, product managers, VCs, angel investors, software developers, investor relations and analyst relations professionals, and others who are building the future of cybersecurity. Featuring forewords by Caleb Sima and Jeremiah Grossman, and contributions by renowned cybersecurity entrepreneurs, operators, thought leaders, and investors, Cyber for Builders is the most comprehensive guide for security entrepreneurs and anyone looking for ways to help their cybersecurity startup, product, line of business, or a portfolio company succeed.

Cyber for Builders provides an overview of the cybersecurity industry from entrepreneurial lenses, breaks down the role of a variety of industry players, from investors to channel partners and acquirers, and offers insight into the trends shaping the future of security. Moreover, the book is packed with mental models, notes, and advice to help early-stage cybersecurity founders get their ideas off the ground and solve problems faced by young companies around problem discovery, hiring, building products, and fundraising, to name some.

“Cyber for Builders" offers an essential roadmap for navigating the cybersecurity vendor landscape (and all the parts that comprise it), resonating with my own successes and failures in building a company in this field. It's a must-read for any first-time security founder or VC.” - Jonathan Haas, Co-Founder and CEO at ThreatKey

"One of the first comprehensive, top to bottom, views of the cybersecurity market from an operator's perspective. If you are building in cyber and have a question - this is a great place to start. 10/10 would recommend." - James Green, General Partner at CRV

"Cyber for Builders" is an indispensable guide for security practitioners looking to embrace an entrepreneurial journey. The book blends strategic insights about the industry with practical wisdom about building cybersecurity startups. Any aspiring or early-stage founder in the security space should read this book." - Ravi Ithal, Co-Founder and CTO at Normalyze, previously Co-Founder and Chief Architect at Netskope

"Ross is one of the most prolific and thoughtful voices on the business of cybersecurity today. Product folk, founders, and aspiring builders take note: this quick-hitting book is a valuable primer for anyone seeking to understand the complex dynamics at play in cybersecurity company building. Read before building." - Allison Averill, Vice President at Unusual Ventures

"With a blend of practical insights and entrepreneurial wisdom, Ross guides aspiring professionals in navigating the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity, providing a roadmap for success in both innovation and market penetration. A must-read for those seeking to master the intricacies of bringing cybersecurity solutions to market." - Moty Jacob, Co-Founder and CEO at SURF Security

“As an early-stage investor for 10 years, I find Ross’s insights thought-provoking and invaluable for those seeking to make change in our industry.” - Andrew Smyth, Partner at Atlantic Bridge

“The cybersecurity industry is a unique beast to navigate. Trends come as quickly as they go and acronyms appear out of thin air which makes building meaningful businesses a tough challenge. “Cyber for Builders” is packed to the brim with contributions from leading cybersecurity entrepreneurs, leaders, and investors but most importantly it uncovers hard-earned lessons for those who are brave enough to navigate the murky cybersecurity waters. Ross is the right person to shine a light on building products in the modern startup ecosystem.” - Jimmy Mesta, Co-Founder and CTO at KSOC