MixMode: Self-Learning Third-Wave AI Platform Delivering Real-Time Threat Detection and Predictive Response Across Network, Cloud, and Hybrid Systems

In an era where cyber attackers increasingly outpace traditional defenses, MixMode is leading a paradigm shift in threat detection. Founded in 2020 in Santa Barbara, MixMode has developed the first generative, third-wave AI platform designed to autonomously detect both known and novel threats in real time—without rules, predefined training data, or constant human supervision. By self-learning network behavior and continuously evolving its internal baseline, MixMode offers precision detection with up to 99% reduction in false positives and alerts within 1–3 minutes—a transformative leap compared to traditional systems that detect threats in 223 days on average.

Autonomous Defense, Built on Mathematical Innovation

MixMode’s core technology is built on dynamical systems theory, a branch of applied mathematics that enables systems to learn and model evolving environments. Pioneered by co-founder and CTO Dr. Igor Mezic, with over 20 years of NIH/DARPA research, this approach forms the engine of what MixMode calls “third-wave AI.” Unlike legacy cybersecurity solutions, MixMode requires no preset rules or human tuning—it adapts to each environment within minutes of deployment.

The company launched with support from investors PSG and Entrada Ventures, securing a $45M Series B in 2023, and was named one of USA Today’s Top 10 AI Companies to Watch in 2024. Today, MixMode protects major organizations across financial services, utilities, healthcare, public sector, and critical infrastructure, delivering SOC efficiency and early detection that traditional solutions cannot match.

Platform Capabilities- Autonomous, Adaptive, and Actionable

MixMode’s platform is purpose-built for organizations facing high-volume, diverse cyber environments. Its fully autonomous detection engine provides:

Generative Third-Wave AI

The mix of dynamical mathematics and generative AI enables the platform to predict attacks—including unseen zero-day and AI-generated threats—with real-time deep-packet inspection, identity analysis, and MITRE ATT&CK mappings.

Self-Supervised Learning

Deploys in under an hour—no rules, no human configuration—and begins modeling network behavior immediately. Alerts about anomalies within minutes ensure threats are neutralized before they escalate.

Real-Time Detection & Prioritization

Delivers proactive, prioritized alerts—scoring each incident by confidence and impact—reducing alert noise by up to 99%. SOC teams benefit from automated threat scoring and clear, actionable insights.

Adaptive Across Every Environment

Whether on-premises, cloud-native (AWS, Azure), hybrid networks, or identity systems like Okta, MixMode adapts in real time—learning and securing each environment without manual intervention.

Comprehensive Services

SOC Optimization

The MixMode Platform is the only generative AI cybersecurity solution built on patented Third Wave AI for threat detection and response. With The MixMode Platform, organizations can enhance their security posture, improve threat detection capabilities, and mitigate the potential impact of cyber attacks on their networks quickly and effectively.

Cloud Detection and Response

MixMode's Cloud Detection and Response Solution provide real-time threat detection for your cloud environment, capable of ingesting and analyzing large volumes of diverse cloud data from multiple systems. It continuously monitors your cloud environment at scale, delivering comprehensive visibility that ensures the defense of your entire cloud infrastructure against both known and unknown threats.

Network Detection and Response

MixMode's Network Detection and Response Solution monitors your network environment in real-time at scale to identify malicious activity and enable quick response. It is capable of ingesting and analyzing large volumes of network traffic, allowing organizations to effectively detect threats that typically evade traditional security tools.

Trusted by Leaders and Analysts

MixMode’s approach has earned rapid acclaim. In 2023, they were selected for the CyberTech100, highlighting innovators in cybersecurity for finance. Earlier this year, USA Today named MixMode a top AI company to watch, citing its ability to detect zero-days and state-sponsored attacks beyond the capabilities of LLM-based approaches. Analysts from SANS, 451 Research, and internal security leaders support its efficacy.

Autonomous Security for an Unpredictable World

Cyber threats are no longer static—they evolve daily. MixMode’s generative, third-wave AI offers the only defense that grows with adversaries—self-learning, always adaptive, always watching. By eliminating the drag of rules, tuning, and manual triage, MixMode enables organizations to detect early, respond faster, and stay ahead—all while cutting false positives and costs. For institutions where timing matters and threats are relentless, MixMode is not just another cybersecurity tool; it is the future of proactive, autonomous defense.

John Keister | CEO & Co‑Founder

John Keister, MixMode’s co-founder and CEO, has steered the company from startup to recognized leader in autonomous cybersecurity. Under his guidance—and strengthened by Dr. Mezic’s technical leadership—MixMode achieved rapid product-market fit, global adoption, and Tier-1 investment support. Keister emphasizes a vision of AI that augments security teams, not replaces them, positioning MixMode as the strategic AI layer inside modern SOCs.

“We believe in partnering with the best companies to deliver outstanding services to our customers. To that end, we have a global network of value-added resellers, managed security service providers (MSSPs) and consultants.”