Accenture to Acquire Ziff Davis’s Connectivity Division for $1.2 Billion

Accenture has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Ziff Davis’s Connectivity division, encompassing brands like Ookla (Speedtest), Downdetector, Ekahau, and RootMetrics, in a cash transaction valued at $1.2 billion. The deal, announced on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, is expected to close in the coming months [Reuters].

Strategic Rationale for the Acquisition

The acquisition will bolster Accenture’s capabilities in network analytics and incident detection. Accenture CEO and chair Julie Sweet stated the acquisition will help clients “scale AI safely and build the trusted data foundations they need to deliver the reliable, seamless connectivity that creates value” [GeekWire]. This move aligns with Accenture’s focus on providing data-driven solutions to businesses and government entities, including current clients like the US Air Force, the US Social Security Administration, and the US Department of State [GeekWire].

Connectivity Division Performance

The Connectivity division generated $231 million in revenue in 2025, representing 16% of Ziff Davis’s total revenue [CNET]. Ziff Davis initially acquired Ookla in 2014 and subsequently added DownDetector, Ekahau, and RootMetrics to its portfolio [CNET].

Key Brands and Their Applications

• Ookla’s Speedtest: Collects and analyzes data from billions of mobile network samples daily, providing insights into radio signal levels, network coverage, and quality of experience for activities like streaming, video conferencing, and gaming. Its customers include telecommunications operators, regulatory bodies, and analysts [CNET].
• Downdetector: A widely-cited platform for monitoring service outages, used by media outlets and businesses to track the availability of websites, apps, and online services. Downdetector Explorer provides outage detection tools for businesses, serving streaming services, banks, and social networks [CNET].
• Ekahau & RootMetrics: These brands provide network performance and location analytics solutions.

Ziff Davis’s Strategic Shift

Ziff Davis CEO Vivek Shah indicated that the sale of the Connectivity division, while historically uncommon for the company, represents a successful investment that has delivered strong returns. The company intends to focus on opportunities within its core digital media markets, particularly navigating the shift towards artificial intelligence [CNET]. The proceeds from the sale will be used for general corporate purposes and to reduce outstanding debt [Ziff Davis Investor Relations].

Operational Continuity

Accenture plans to maintain the existing operations of the acquired businesses. An Accenture spokesperson stated that the company intends to operate Ookla “business as it operates today” [GeekWire]. However, users of Speedtest and Downdetector may be subject to new privacy policies and other changes following the completion of the acquisition.