Datadog announced the acquisition of Quickwit, a cutting-edge provider of search and indexing software for petabyte-scale log datasets. The acquisition should enhance Datadog’s capabilities in observability, security, and data analytics by integrating Quickwit’s cost-efficient, high-performance search technology into its product suite.
Who is Quickwit?
Quickwit is a specialized provider of search and indexing software designed for large-scale log datasets. Founded in 2020 by three engineers with deep expertise in search technology, Quickwit focuses on creating high-performance, cost-efficient solutions for organizations that rely heavily on log data for observability, security, and analytics.
Key Features and Offerings
- Purpose-Built for Log Data: Quickwit addresses the needs of organizations where log data (e.g., system activity, security events, and financial transactions) is central to operations.
- Cost Efficiency: The platform is reported to be more cost-efficient than established competitors like Elasticsearch, Splunk, and Google Chronicle.
- Performance: Quickwit offers faster indexing and query capabilities, enabling the retention of larger datasets while reducing infrastructure requirements.
- Technology Stack: Built in Rust and powered by Tantivy, an open-source, high-speed search engine library developed by the Quickwit team.
- Deployment Flexibility: Supports on-premises installations, appealing to organizations with stringent security requirements.
Strategic Fit with Datadog
The acquisition aligns with Datadog’s mission to deliver robust observability and security solutions at scale. Quickwit’s technology complements Datadog’s capabilities in several key ways:
- Enhanced Search and Indexing: Quickwit’s high-speed indexing and query performance bolster Datadog’s analytics offerings for large-scale log and event data.
- Cost Efficiency: Quickwit’s lightweight architecture helps reduce infrastructure costs for customers, reinforcing Datadog’s value proposition in cost-sensitive markets.
- Innovative Use Cases: Quickwit’s ability to handle specialized workloads (e.g., security analytics, financial transaction logs, and dark web monitoring) expands Datadog’s reach into niche markets.
With the acquisition, Datadog continues the broader industry trend converging observability and advanced data analytics. This is a solid acquisition that will strengthen Datadog’s search and indexing capabilities, a critical capability for modern observability and security infrastructure.
