Lawrence, Kansas Patent of the Year – 2024/2025

Cobalt Iron Inc. has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for advancing cybersecurity in enterprise data backup systems. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 11882094, titled ‘Data protection automatic optimization system and method’, uses intelligent monitoring and adaptive controls to detect and block malicious activity in backup environments.

This technology improves the resilience of data protection infrastructure by proactively identifying suspicious behavior before it can compromise backup operations. The system continuously scans for threats such as ransomware, unauthorized access, or unusual data manipulation, then automatically initiates protective actions like blocking access or isolating affected components.

Unlike traditional static security measures, the patent outlines a dynamic, policy-driven system that adjusts its responses in real time based on context and threat level. These automated interventions can halt attacks as they unfold, dramatically reducing the risk of data loss and system downtime.

The invention also includes logging and alerting features to keep administrators informed while minimizing manual oversight. This intelligent automation streamlines security management across complex, distributed IT environments.

As cyberattacks grow more frequent and sophisticated, this innovation offers a much-needed safeguard for critical enterprise data. By embedding smart security directly into backup systems, Cobalt Iron Inc. strengthens the last line of defense for organizations around the world.