‘Downdetector, Speedtest Acquired in $1 Billion Deal’
Ziff Davis has announced a significant business move by selling its Connectivity division, which encompasses both Downdetector and Speedtest, to Accenture. The acquisition, valued at $1.2 billion in cash, allows Ziff Davis to concentrate on its primary brands, including IGN, Mashable, and Everyday Health.
Sale Details and Strategic Focus
Following the sale, Ziff Davis aims to streamline its operations. Recently, the company trimmed its workforce, including some veteran editors and its entire video team at Eurogamer. This restructuring is aligned with a broader strategy of brand consolidation.
Financial Background
- Acquisition Value: $1.2 billion in cash
- Year of Purchase: Ziff Davis acquired Ookla for $15 million in 2014
- Revenue Generated: The Connectivity division generated $231 million in 2025
The sale of the Connectivity division capitalizes on the growing demand for online services, especially during the pandemic and the rollout of 5G technology. Downdetector and Speedtest have seen increased usage due to the surge in bandwidth requirements among consumers.
Accenture’s Vision
Accenture, a global technology consulting firm based in Dublin, views this acquisition as a crucial step toward enhancing its network intelligence services. This move is essential for advancing their AI-driven transformation initiatives.
The deal’s finalization may take a few months. In the meantime, Ziff Davis will continue to manage Speedtest and Downdetector, ensuring uninterrupted service for users.
