Cisco and Nvidia have announced the launch of the Cisco Secure AI Factory, a sophisticated architecture designed to enhance secure enterprise AI networking. This collaboration combines Cisco’s networking and security solutions with Nvidia’s Data Processing Units (DPUs) and various third-party storage options. The announcement was made during Nvidia’s GTC AI Conference in San Jose, California.
The Secure AI Factory integrates notable Cisco technologies, including Hypershield and AI Defense, aimed at safeguarding the development and deployment of AI models and applications. Jeetu Patel, Cisco’s executive vice president and chief product officer, emphasized that AI infrastructure is complex and requires a comprehensive security approach embedded at every layer.
Key Features:
- Hypershield: Uses AI to refine security policies dynamically based on application identity and behavior. This tool automates policy creation and enforcement, offering network segmentation during threats and seamless software upgrades.
- AI Defense: Monitors AI models in development, providing features for access control, visibility into AI assets, validation of models, and runtime protection.
The Secure AI Factory is offered in two configurations based on customer requirements:
- The first option utilizes Cisco Nexus Hyperfabric AI, showcasing Cisco 6000 Series data center switches, a cloud-managed computing system, and Nvidia BlueField-3 DPUs, designed for advanced AI workloads.
- The second configuration features Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches and servers tailored for AI applications and workloads.
Cisco and Nvidia are also providing adaptable deployment models and reference architectures to assist businesses in operationalizing and securing their AI infrastructures. These bundled offerings are anticipated to be accessible before the end of 2025.
This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing AI capabilities across various sectors, including public service, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and retail, demonstrating the companies’ commitment to providing robust AI solutions.
For more detailed insight, read more about this development at Network World and explore additional packaged solutions offered previously, including Cisco AI Pods.
