Company Report: Unit 410
Overview
Unit 410, headquartered in Austin, Texas, is a leading engineering firm with a specialized focus on computer and network security in emergent blockchain technologies. Emphasizing institutional-grade security, the company offers noncustodial services for institutional cold storage and staking, supporting a comprehensive range of over 200 digital assets. The company's name pays homage to the apartment where Coinbase was founded, marking its strong industry ties from inception. Operating remotely with a team of 23 security, infrastructure, and cryptocurrency engineering experts, Unit 410 has carved a niche in the realm of institutional crypto custody and staking.
Services and Capabilities
Unit 410 is renowned for its mature solutions in self-custody and cold storage, empowering major stakeholders in the cryptocurrency sector. Key services include:
- Wallets & Self-Custody: Providing secure handling and storage of digital assets with advanced self-custody options.
- Staking & Participation: Offering industry-leading staking capabilities and participation support for over 20 blockchain networks.
- Reporting & Audit Support: Tailored reporting and audit solutions aimed at ensuring compliance and risk management for RIAs and public companies.
- Security Standards & Audits: Ongoing auditing practices such as application audits, cloud penetration tests, and SOC reports maintain the high-security standards with key certifications like an ISO certification acquired in August 2024.
Team and Leadership
Unit 410's leadership team is pivotal to its success, with:
- Rob Witoff: Co-Founder and CEO, boasting significant experience from roles at Coinbase and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, pivotal in cementing the company's expertise in secure digital asset management.
- Michael Nelson: General Counsel, brings a wealth of legal experience from his previous role as a partner at Am Law 100.
- Drew Vriesman: Controller, oversees financial operations, drawing from his extensive background at V7 Consulting.
Culture and Careers
Unit 410's culture emphasizes security, innovation, and technological advancement. As a notable employer in security, infrastructure, and cryptocurrency engineering, it is recognized by Built In Austin as one of its Featured Companies. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, the company provides various career opportunities, particularly in remote roles related to software engineering and operations based in Austin, Texas.
Online Presence
Unit 410 maintains a robust online presence through key platforms:
- [Official Website](https://unit410.com/)
- [LinkedIn Company Page](https://www.linkedin.com/company/unit410)
These portals offer comprehensive insights into their services, job opportunities, and updates on company operations and initiatives within the blockchain arena.
Competitor Profile
Key Competitor Analysis
1. Fortress Trust (Las Vegas, Nevada)
- Focus: Compliant financial infrastructure and crypto services with a notable emphasis on the burgeoning Web3 landscape.
- Competitive Edge: Known for its comprehensive solutions within the crypto financial services sector, positioning itself as a prominent player in the compliance and infrastructure domain.
2. Unchained (Austin, Texas)
- Focus: Specializes in Bitcoin with a keen focus on multisignature vaults and loan services.
- Competitive Edge: Offers a comparable suite of services, particularly targeting Bitcoin solutions with advanced security measures.
Strategic Insights
The competitive landscape reflects Unit 410's prominent position as a leader in institutional cold storage and self-custody solutions. Its strategic alignment with major stakeholders evidences a commitment to excellence in security and infrastructure. The company's heritage, underpinned by a significant acquisition by Coinbase in 2021, highlights a promising growth trajectory and ongoing potential in the crypto custody and infrastructure ecosystem, offering valuable opportunities for collaboration or investment in blockchain technology advancements.
