Cisco is positioning itself as a key player in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) networking. As the need for modernized network infrastructure grows alongside advances in AI, Cisco has been proactive in enhancing its offerings to cater to enterprise and hyperscaler environments.
Recently, Cisco has introduced upgraded switching and router products designed specifically for AI workloads, along with enhanced software capabilities and contributions to open-source projects aimed at improving AI networking technologies. Kevin Wollenweber, the senior vice president and general manager at Cisco, emphasized the company’s goal of providing reliable infrastructure that can adapt to the changing demands of AI applications.
In June, Cisco clarified its AI strategy with the unveiling of two new programmable Smart Switches, the C9350 Fixed Access and the C9610 Modular Core. These switches are designed to handle demanding AI operations and come equipped with advanced features that enable parallel processing, ensuring that a variety of applications can run concurrently without interference. They also incorporate support for post-quantum cryptography, enhancing data security within complex AI-driven network topologies.
Additionally, Cisco expanded its router offerings to connect existing technologies like SD-WAN and secure access service edge (SASE), further enhancing its AI networking capabilities. The new Cisco AI PODs, comprising hardware configurations optimized for AI deployment, facilitate the seamless integration of these technologies into customers’ data centers and edge environments.
Wollenweber highlighted the importance of modernizing existing infrastructures to support AI without requiring customers to invest heavily in on-premise solutions immediately. Cisco’s integrated Nexus Dashboard is aimed at helping enterprises manage various networking systems for improved operational efficiency and reduced costs. The dashboard employs an AI Assistant that aids in troubleshooting and enhances overall network management.
Cisco is also fostering collaboration within the AI community by donating its AGNTCY initiative to the Linux Foundation, promoting open-source development of AI agent management technology. This initiative aims to establish standardized communication protocols within AI systems, which are essential for collaborative AI operations across platforms.
Moreover, Cisco has recognized the growing trend of sovereign AI companies that provide resources for enterprises lacking the capacity to build their own AI systems. By investing in such facilities, Cisco is positioning itself to meet the future demand for AI infrastructure as businesses explore the potential of AI applications.
As competition grows in the AI networking space—with companies like Arista and HPE aggressively pursuing similar strategies—Cisco continues to refine its offerings to provide value for enterprise customers eager to leverage AI effectively. The evolving landscape indicates that while immediate adoption may not be widespread, the foundation for AI-driven networking is being laid with Cisco at the forefront.
For further details, visit: Cisco AI Networking and Cisco AGNTCY initiative.
