Cisco Sys Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Cisco has unveiled Cisco Plus, its new as-a-service strategy aimed at providing flexible IT procurement solutions for businesses. This initiative focuses on Network-as-a-Service (NaaS), offering features such as secure access service edge (SASE), simplified consumption, and unified subscriptions. The rollout will initially include a hybrid cloud solution available mid-year 2021, targeting markets in Australia, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, and the U.S. Cisco aims to transform how customers access and utilize its technology, enhancing digital agility in a cloud-first environment.

Cisco has announced its strategy to reshape internet infrastructure for the 5G era, focusing on creating a more accessible and efficient network globally. Collaborating with leading service providers, Cisco aims to redesign networks to accommodate an anticipated 29.3 billion connected devices by 2023. Their new Routed Optical Networking solution promises savings of up to 46% in total costs. Notable innovations include the Cloud Native Broadband Network Gateway and advancements in Cisco Silicon One, enhancing operational efficiency and network performance.

Cisco announced new software solutions during Cisco Live on March 30, 2021, aimed at enhancing network visibility for technology teams. By integrating ThousandEyes internet intelligence with AppDynamics and its Catalyst switching family, Cisco enables customers to address critical issues across digital applications and services effectively. This move comes in light of increased reliance on SaaS and cloud services, providing actionable insights to ensure seamless user experiences. Notably, customers with Catalyst 9300/9400 will access ThousandEyes at no extra cost starting early April.

Cisco has announced the launch of Duo passwordless authentication, which allows users to securely log into cloud applications without needing passwords. This feature, part of Cisco's zero trust platform, enhances security by using security keys or biometrics. Available for public preview in summer 2021 and general availability by year-end, this innovation aims to eliminate the risks associated with password management, reducing IT support costs and boosting productivity. The solution integrates with existing authentication systems, thus facilitating a smoother transition for enterprises.

SAN JOSE, Calif., March 22, 2021 – Cisco's Accelerating Digital Agility Research highlights the core priorities for IT success, with a focus on security, collaboration, and the cloud. Key findings reveal that 56% of IT decision makers are investing in cloud applications and network security, while 89% prioritize maintaining security across distributed workforces. Additionally, 73% have adopted 'as a Service' solutions to enhance user experience. The survey reflects a global perspective, gathering insights from over 23,000 IT leaders across 34 markets.

Cisco appointed Marianna Tessel to its board of directors effective March 5, 2021. Tessel brings extensive leadership experience in technology and software, previously serving as CTO at Intuit and holding key positions at Docker and VMware. Her appointment expands Cisco's board to 11 members. Tessel's background in software solutions is expected to align with Cisco's strategy for enhancing customer support as businesses navigate digital transformations.

Cisco announced the preview launch of a new real-time translation feature for Webex, allowing translations from English to over 100 languages. This innovation aims to enhance collaboration in a global workforce, eliminating language barriers. Existing support expanded from 10+ languages to a wide range including Arabic, French, and Spanish. The feature also offers businesses significant cost savings, replacing third-party translation services, which average $172 per meeting. The full rollout is expected in May 2021.

Cisco has successfully completed its acquisition of Acacia Communications for $4.5 billion, following approval from Acacia's shareholders. The acquisition, priced at $115.00 per share, aims to bolster Cisco's Internet for the Future strategy by enhancing its coherent optical solutions. Cisco is committed to supporting Acacia's existing and future customers, which are crucial for meeting the growing demand for data across webscale companies, service providers, and data centers. Acacia will now operate under Cisco's Optics business.