Gil Shwed built Check Point into a $20 billion cybersecurity giant, but it all began with a flaw he spotted as a programmer in the Israeli military. Tasked with connecting classified networks, he uncovered a vulnerability, and the idea for a firewall was born. A few years later, he launched Check Point, betting on internet security before the web even existed. At 26 years old, he took the company public despite his doubts. Three decades later, he stepped down as CEO, having reshaped cybersecurity forever. In this episode, Gil joins Ilana to share how he built a problem-solving mindset, landed game-changing deals, scaled a startup from nothing, and led a multibillion-dollar company for 30 years.

Gil Shwed is the co-founder and Executive Chairman of Check Point Software Technologies, one of Israel's largest tech companies and the world’s top cybersecurity firm. He was the CEO for 30 years, the longest of any CEO on Nasdaq, and still helps guide the company today.

In this episode, Ilana and Gil will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:32) Early Programming Passion

(02:17) Gaining Problem-Solving Skills in the Military

(06:25) The Security Flaw That Inspired Check Point

(07:45) How Early Jobs Shaped His Path to Check Point

(12:26) Realizing the Need for Firewalls Ahead of Time

(15:12) Raising Capital Without VC Funding

(17:47) Convincing Companies to Adopt Firewalls

(21:06) Closing a $1M Deal After 100 Days of Hustle

(28:34) Why Gil Reluctantly Took Check Point Public

(33:03) The Secret to His Leadership Success

(36:03) Navigating Market Changes and Stress

(41:08) How Gil Stays Ahead in Business

(44:05) Stepping Down as CEO After 30 Years

(49:00) Minimizing Risks in Business

(52:13) Building a Startup That Lasts

Gil Shwed is the co-founder and Executive Chairman of Check Point Software Technologies, one of Israel's largest tech companies and the world’s top cybersecurity firm. He saw early on how important cybersecurity would be as the world became more connected, helping Check Point grow into a leader in the industry. Gil was the CEO for 30 years, the longest of any CEO on Nasdaq, and still helps guide the company today.

Connect with Gil:

Gil’s Website: https://www.checkpoint.com/

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Gil Shwed: Building Check Point into a $20B Empire and Defining the Future of Cybersecurity | E81