Cisco and NVIDIA Introduce AI‑Native 6G Wireless Stack, Redefining Cloud and Enterprise Infrastructure

Cisco and NVIDIA have announced a broad set of AI infrastructure innovations designed to accelerate adoption of artificial intelligence across cloud, enterprise, and telecom sectors. The collaboration brings together Cisco’s networking and security expertise with NVIDIA’s AI computing leadership, marking what executives described as the beginning of the “largest data center build‑out in history.”

Spectrum‑X Powered Switches

At the center of the announcement is the Cisco N9100 Series data center switch, the first NVIDIA partner‑developed switch built on NVIDIA Spectrum‑X Ethernet technology. The switch is designed to deliver high‑performance, low‑latency networking for AI workloads and will be available with both NX‑OS and SONiC operating models. Cisco said the platform will serve as a Cloud Partner‑compliant reference architecture, enabling neocloud and sovereign cloud providers to deploy AI infrastructure at scale.

Enterprise AI Security and Observability

Cisco also expanded its Secure AI Factory with NVIDIA, a framework that integrates compute, networking, security, and observability into enterprise AI deployments. The initiative aims to give organizations end‑to‑end visibility and protection as they scale AI workloads, particularly in regulated industries. New ecosystem partnerships were announced to strengthen monitoring and compliance capabilities.

Telecom and 6G Readiness

In a move aimed at telecom operators, Cisco and NVIDIA unveiled the industry’s first AI‑native wireless stack for 6G networks. The stack is designed to handle ultra‑low latency and massive device connectivity, preparing carriers for the surge in AI‑driven traffic expected over the next decade. Analysts said the development could redefine mobile networks by enabling real‑time AI services at the edge.

Strategic Context

Executives from both companies emphasized that the innovations are not standalone products but part of a joint reference architecture for next‑generation AI deployments. “We are entering a new era where AI workloads will reshape every industry,” said a Cisco spokesperson. “Our partnership with NVIDIA ensures customers have the flexibility, interoperability, and scalability to build AI infrastructure securely and globally.”

Why It Matters

• For Cloud Providers: A unified, NVIDIA‑compliant architecture accelerates AI adoption in sovereign and neocloud environments.
• For Enterprises: Enhanced security and observability ensure safer AI deployments.
• For Telecoms: The AI‑native 6G stack positions operators to deliver next‑generation services.

With these announcements, Cisco and NVIDIA are positioning themselves at the heart of the global AI infrastructure race, targeting the needs of hyperscalers, enterprises, and telecom operators alike.

SoftBank and Cisco Light Up Japan’s First All-Optical Metro Network — Slashing Energy Use by 90%

In a bold move to redefine urban connectivity and sustainability, SoftBank Corp. has partnered with Cisco to launch Japan’s first All-Optical Metro Network. The initiative, announced in October 2025, marks a major leap in telecom infrastructure—one that promises to cut energy consumption by up to 90% while preparing Japan’s cities for the data demands of the AI era.

The Technology Behind the Transformation

Scope of All optical network deployment

At the heart of this next-generation network lies Cisco’s Routed Optical Networking architecture, a paradigm shift that eliminates the need for traditional optical-electrical-optical (O-E-O) conversions. Instead of converting light signals into electrical ones at each node—a process that consumes significant power and space—the new system enables end-to-end optical transmission across metro networks.

• Cisco 8000 Series Routers: Built for scale and efficiency, supporting 400G and beyond. These routers enable massive throughput with minimal energy draw.
• Cisco Silicon One Q200 Chips: Custom-built ASICs delivering up to 7x the switching capacity of previous generations while consuming half the power.
• Segment Routing and EVPN: Advanced routing protocols optimize traffic flow, reduce latency, and simplify operations across metro domains.

Why It Matters: Energy, AI, and the Future of Connectivity

SoftBank’s new metro network isn’t just about speed—it’s about sustainability. By removing power-hungry transponders and simplifying the network architecture, the all-optical design dramatically reduces energy use and carbon emissions. This aligns with SoftBank’s broader commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

• Massive bandwidth for data-intensive applications
• Lower latency for real-time services like autonomous vehicles and smart cities
• Reduced operational complexity through converged infrastructure

Deployment and Roadmap

The first phase of the rollout was completed in Osaka Prefecture in September 2025. SoftBank plans to expand the network nationwide by 2027, building on its nationwide core optical network completed in 2023. This metro layer will serve as the connective tissue between core and access networks, enabling seamless, high-speed data flow across Japan’s urban centers.

A Strategic Alliance

This collaboration deepens the longstanding relationship between SoftBank and Cisco, who have worked together on multiple network modernization efforts. According to SoftBank’s CTO Keiichi Makizono, “This next-generation network will not only support our growing data demands but also contribute significantly to our sustainability goals.”

Kevin Wollenweber, SVP and GM of Cisco Networking, echoed the sentiment:

Our Routed Optical Networking solution is designed to help customers like SoftBank build a more scalable, efficient, and sustainable internet for the future.

New Tata–Cisco Partnership Sets Global Benchmark for eSIM-Powered IoT Connectivity

Tata Communications and Cisco have teamed up to supercharge global IoT deployments, with a strategic partnership that blends Tata’s intelligent eSIM orchestration with Cisco’s robust device management platform.

Key Highlights of the Collaboration

• Tata Communications MOVE™: A global eSIM orchestration solution managing over 350 million eSIM OS across 200+ countries and territories.
• Cisco IoT Control Center: A cloud-based platform supporting 270+ million SIM-enabled IoT devices, including 100 million connected cars.
• Unified Connectivity: Enterprises can now activate, monitor, and scale devices seamlessly across private/public networks and multiple SIM providers.
• Industries Benefiting: Transportation, logistics, and manufacturing stand to gain the most, with simplified provisioning and reduced integration costs.

Strategic Impact

• Tackles long-standing IoT challenges like fragmented SIM hardware, complex provisioning, and vendor lock-ins.
• Enables faster rollouts, greater visibility, and scalable operations for global enterprises.
• Positions eSIM as a foundational technology for managing connected ecosystems—from vehicles to industrial sensors.

Marco Bijvelds of Tata Communications summed it up:

This partnership empowers global businesses to unlock new opportunities, streamline operations, and accelerate digital transformation.

The collaboration will significantly benefit industries like transportation, logistics, and manufacturing, where reliable IoT connectivity is critical, be it a trucking company that instantly activates trailers across borders without local SIM cards or a utility provider seeking to monitor infrastructure on private and public networks without reconfiguring devices.

NTT DATA and Cisco Partner to Power Networking for the AI Era

NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, and Cisco today unveiled a new co-sponsored IDC InfoBrief, Wired for Intelligence: A CIO Guide to Enterprise Networking for AI. The study shares strategic guidance for organizations seeking to accelerate transformation by modernizing their network infrastructure.

As organizations integrate AI into more applications, from manufacturing and healthcare to financial services, the demand for high-speed, low-latency, and secure networks is surging. Legacy infrastructure is no longer sufficient to support the scale and complexity of AI workloads. NTT DATA and Cisco are responding to this shift by helping clients evolve from outdated architectures to intelligent, adaptive infrastructure that can power AI-driven innovation.

“As two market leaders, NTT DATA and Cisco are well positioned to help clients modernize their digital infrastructure foundations for the AI era. The network exists as a catalyst for growth and organizations can unlock powerful new capabilities and achieve AI-driven business transformation at scale,” said Dilip Kumar, Global Head, Technology Solutions, NTT DATA, Inc.

The Critical Foundation Empowering AI-Driven Growth

The study highlights that network modernization is at the heart of AI success. More than 78% of companies say that networking capabilities are either important or very important when selecting providers for GenAI infrastructure — underscoring the need for networks that can handle and secure ever-scaling AI workloads while running complex AI training, inference, and storage clusters with ease. At the same time, modernization also infuses AI into network operations through AI-driven configuration, anomaly detection, self-healing, and intelligent monitoring to accelerate issue resolution and elevate user experience. Already, industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services are leveraging AI in networking to improve operational efficiency, ensure secure connectivity and reduce costs.

“Network modernization is about more than replacing old hardware—it’s about allowing enterprises to lead in an AI-driven world,” said Brink Sanders, Senior Vice President of Global Networking Sales, Cisco. “Our partnership with NTT DATA equips clients with the technology and expertise needed to build secure and connected networks.”

“Your network will make or break your AI transformation. Overcoming the challenges of legacy networking technologies is essential. This IDC InfoBrief gives organizations the steps to transform enterprise networking from a bottleneck into a business advantage,” said Chris Barnard, Vice President, European Telecoms and Infrastructure, IDC.

NTT DATA is Enabling Network Modernization Through Intelligent Services

NTT DATA’s comprehensive suite of intelligent services helps clients modernize their digital infrastructure and build secure networks. These services span the full lifecycle from advisory to sourcing, professional services, support and managed services to enable organizations to modernize and unlock the full potential of AI.

With many companies undergoing hardware refresh cycles due to the emergence of AI, NTT DATA’s services are designed to meet this critical moment:

• Advisory: Strategic guidance to align network modernization with AI goals.
• Strategic Technology Sourcing: Recommending and procuring the right technology to transform network to be AI-ready.
• Professional Services: Architecting and deploying scalable, secure and high-performance networks.
• Software-Defined Infrastructure Services: Driving business outcomes through adoption of automation and AI agents into infrastructure operations and license optimization.
• Adoption Services: Maximizing value from infrastructure investments through greater adoption of software, continuous improvement and change management.
• Managed Network Services: End-to-end network management to ensure seamless data flow from edge to cloud, minimizing latency and enhancing application responsiveness.

NTT DATA recently launched AI-powered Software Defined Infrastructure (SDI) services for Cisco products to deliver intelligent automation and real-time insights to optimize infrastructure, reduce costs, and drive business outcomes.

IDC InfoBrief:, sponsored by NTT DATA and Cisco, Wired for Intelligence: A CIO Guide to Enterprise Networking for AI, doc #EUR253592825, July 2025.

National Telecom R&D and Skilling Hub Takes Shape in Jabalpur, MP As BSNL Ties With Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco & Nokia

BSNL has launched a major industry-led digital skilling initiative at its premier training institute, Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT), Jabalpur, in collaboration with Ericsson, Qualcomm, Cisco, and Nokia. Here's a breakdown of the initiative's scope, objectives, and impact:

This development is a step towards a broader plan by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, to establish a Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT. Envisioned as an industry-led national hub, TIRTC will focus on developing telecom-specific R&D talent and a future-ready workforce — aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Skill India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

TIRTC will also support product innovation, prototyping, and telecom entrepreneurship in the long term.

Initiative Overview

• Partners: Ericsson India, Qualcomm Technologies, Cisco Systems, Nokia Solutions and Networks India
• Location: Bharat Ratna Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute of Telecom Training (BRBRAITT), Jabalpur
• Focus Areas: 5G, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, Networking
• Annual Training Goal: Over 2,000 students

Training Programs & Infrastructure

Partner	Contribution	Training Focus
Ericsson	5G Centre of Excellence + Ericsson Educate Program	Hands-on 5G training, global curriculum
Qualcomm	Qualcomm Institute + sponsored training for first 100 participants	Advanced 5G & AI, internships
Cisco	Cisco Networking Academy Program	Networking, cybersecurity, IT skills
Nokia	5G Centre of Excellence + AI/ML Lab + joint certification with BRBRAITT	5G radio/core networks, AI/ML

Strategic Goals

• Establish Telecom Innovation, Research and Training Centre (TIRTC) at BRBRAITT
• Support national missions: Digital India, Skill India, Make in India, Startup India, Atmanirbhar Bharat
• Build a digitally enabled, job-ready youth workforce. 
• Position Jabalpur as a national hub for telecom R&D, innovation, and skilling

Launch & Leadership

• MoUs signed in New Delhi
• Attended by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal, BSNL leadership, and partner company representatives

Voice Phishing Breach at Cisco: ShinyHunters Suspected in CRM Data Heist

Cisco has confirmed a targeted voice phishing (vishing) attack that compromised user profile data stored in a third-party cloud-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. The breach, discovered on July 24, 2025, involved an attacker impersonating a trusted entity over the phone to manipulate a Cisco representative into granting unauthorized access.

Cisco Vishing Attack: What Happened

On July 24, 2025 (GMT+9), Cisco was alerted to a voice phishing (vishing) attack targeting one of its representatives. The attacker impersonated a trusted entity over the phone and successfully manipulated the employee into granting access to a third-party, cloud-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

What Data Was Compromised

The attacker exported a subset of basic profile information from users who had registered on Cisco.com:

Compromised Data
Full names
Organization names
Physical addresses
Cisco-assigned user IDs
Email addresses
Phone numbers
Account-related metadata (e.g., account creation date)

No passwords, confidential customer data, or proprietary information were accessed.

Cisco’s Response

Cisco took immediate action:

• Terminated the attacker’s access to the CRM system
• Launched a full investigation
• Notified affected users and data protection authorities
• Confirmed no impact to other CRM instances or Cisco products/services

They also committed to:

• Re-educating personnel on identifying and preventing vishing attacks
• Implementing enhanced security measures to prevent recurrence

Broader Context

This breach appears to be part of a larger campaign targeting companies using Salesforce and other CRM platforms. Other victims include Allianz Life, Tiffany & Co., and Qantas. The ShinyHunters extortion group is suspected to be behind these coordinated attacks.

Cisco Joins Forces with Reliance Jio to Power India's Hyperscale AI Ambitions

American tech giant Cisco Systems is partnering with Reliance Jio to help realize Mukesh Ambani’s vision of building India’s largest hyperscale AI infrastructure, including gigawatt-scale data centers across the country.

Jio Brain & Hyperscale Vision

Jio Brain is Jio’s AI infrastructure initiative aimed at hosting:

• AI training and inferencing workloads
• Cloud-based AI applications

Cisco will provide:

• Data center infrastructure
• Connectivity solutions, including integration with satellite networks like Starlink

Mega Data Centers in Jamnagar & Kolkata

• Jamnagar, Gujarat: A $30 billion project to build the world’s largest AI-powered data center, powered entirely by green energy
• Kolkata: A state-of-the-art AI-ready facility to be completed within 9 months

Strategic Tech Stack

Cisco’s 8000 series routers and Crosswork automation tools will enable:

• Seamless integration of terrestrial and satellite broadband
• End-to-end visibility and telemetry across networks
• Cisco’s AI-ready infrastructure includes:
• Unified Nexus Dashboard
• AI PODs for scalable workloads
• Secure AI Factory in collaboration with NVIDIA

Implications for India

• Positions India as a global AI and data processing hub
• Democratizes access to AI by reducing inferencing costs
• Supports remote connectivity in rural and mountainous regions via satellite integration.

Cisco Joins Global Patent Pool to Boost Next-Gen Wi-Fi 6 Technology

Cisco Systems, Inc. has officially joined the Sisvel Wi-Fi 6 patent pool programme, marking a significant milestone in the licensing landscape for next-generation wireless technologies.

The Sisvel Wi-Fi 6 patent pool is a global program that makes it easier for companies to legally use key technologies behind faster, smarter Wi-Fi 6. Instead of negotiating with dozens of patent owners, companies like Cisco can get access to nearly 2,000 essential patents through one simple license. Managed by Sisvel, the program helps avoid legal hassles, speeds up innovation, and ensures fair use of the tech that powers modern wireless devices—from smartphones to enterprise routers.

Key Highlights of the Deal

• Scope of Access: Cisco gains one-stop access to nearly 2,000 patents (organized into 245 patent families) deemed essential to the 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 standard.
• Patent Evaluation: These patents have undergone independent essentiality evaluations, ensuring their relevance to the Wi-Fi 6 specification.
• Strategic Importance: Cisco, a global leader in enterprise networking and AI-driven connectivity, strengthens its position in the Wi-Fi 6 ecosystem, especially in enterprise-grade access points.

Broader Context

Sisvel’s Wi-Fi 6 Pool: Launched in July 2022, the pool has seen a surge in adoption, with 20+ new licensees joining since Q4 2023.

Patent Contributors: The pool includes patents from multiple key innovators in Wi-Fi 6 technology. You can view the full list of contributors on Sisvel’s official site.

Industry Validation: Sisvel’s Head of Licensing, Nick Webb, called Cisco’s entry a “major validation” of the pool’s transparent and efficient licensing model.

This move not only simplifies Cisco’s access to critical IP but also signals growing industry alignment around collaborative licensing frameworks for emerging standards. Want to explore how this impacts Wi-Fi 7 or enterprise deployments next?

Transforming Factories: SiMa.ai and Cisco Partner to Power Edge AI in Industry 4.0

SiMa.ai, a leading provider of Machine Learning System on a Chip™ (MLSoC) silicon and the Palette ™ software platform, today announced a go-to-market collaboration with Cisco to bring artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to Industry 4.0 environments. By integrating SiMa.ai's energy-efficient Modalix AI platform with Cisco's new, robust and ruggedized IE3500 portfolio of switches, customers can now deploy powerful, production-grade edge AI solutions across manufacturing, logistics, and industrial automation use cases.

Transforming Industrial Operations with Edge AI

The integration addresses the growing demand for low-latency, high-performance AI at the edge, delivering the privacy, reliability, security, and performance required for mission-critical Applications.

"This collaboration with Cisco marks a significant milestone in making edge AI accessible and practical for industrial environments," said Krishna Rangasayee, CEO and Founder, SiMa.ai. "Our Modalix platform's ability to deliver high-performance AI inference with exceptional energy efficiency, combined with Cisco's proven industrial networking infrastructure, creates a necessary solution for Industry 4.0 transformation."

Empowering Industry 4.0 Use Cases

Together, the two products enable a wide range of Industry 4.0 applications across multiple sectors:

• Smart Manufacturing: Real-time quality control, predictive maintenance, and production optimization
• Industrial Automation: Intelligent robotics, automated inspection, and process control
• Supply Chain and Logistics: Inventory management, package sorting, and warehouse automation
• Energy and Utilities: Grid monitoring, equipment diagnostics, and safety compliance
• Transportation: Fleet management, route optimization, and autonomous vehicle systems

Technical Excellence and Innovation

SiMa.ai's Modalix platform is engineered specifically for edge AI applications, featuring a unique architecture that delivers exceptional performance per watt while supporting diverse AI workloads. The platform's software-defined approach enables rapid deployment of new AI models and applications without hardware changes.

Cisco's IE3500 switches provide the industrial-grade networking infrastructure essential for edge AI deployments. With features including advanced security, precise timing, and environmental hardening, the IE3500 series can provide reliable connectivity and data transmission in challenging industrial environments.

"Cisco is committed to enabling digital transformation for manufacturing, energy and transportation industries," said Vikas Butaney, SVP & GM, Secure Routing and Industrial IoT, Cisco. "Our work with SiMa.ai will enable customers to unlock the full potential of Industry 4.0 by combining AI and secure industrial networking technologies."

Market Impact and Future Outlook

The global edge AI market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for real-time processing, data privacy concerns, and the need to reduce bandwidth costs. According to industry analysts, the edge AI market is expected to reach a significant scale over the next five years, with industrial applications representing a major growth segment.

This collaboration well positions both companies for this transformation, which will provide customers with a solution that addresses the unique challenges of deploying AI in industrial environments.

Availability and Next Steps

The combined offer of SiMa.ai Modalix and Cisco IE3500 switches is available for evaluation today. Go-to-market initiatives will include technical webinars, proof-of-concept programs, and comprehensive support services to help customers evaluate and deploy edge AI solutions.

About SiMa.ai

SiMa.ai is the software-centric, embedded edge machine learning system-on-chip (MLSoC) company. SiMa.ai delivers ONE Platform for Edge AI that flexibly adjusts to any framework, network, model, sensor, or modality. Edge ML applications that run completely on the SiMa.ai MLSoC and Modalix product family see a tenfold increase in performance and energy efficiency, bringing higher fidelity intelligence to ML use cases spanning computer vision to generative AI, in minutes.

With SiMa.ai, customers unlock new paths to revenue and significant cost savings to innovate at the edge across industrial manufacturing, retail, aerospace, defense, agriculture, and healthcare. SiMa.ai was founded in 2018, has raised $270M and is backed by Fidelity Management & Research Company, Maverick Capital, Point72, MSD Partners, VentureTech Alliance and more.

Inside Cisco’s 70% Play in BharatNet—Where Local Meets Global Networking

Cisco has carved out a pivotal role in India’s ambitious BharatNet Phase III project, driving connectivity to 650,000 villages while showcasing how global technology can thrive on local manufacturing. With nearly 70% of the BharatNet infrastructure built using routers manufactured in India, Cisco is delivering not just network speed—but strategic depth.

Daisy Chittilapilly, President (India & SAARC), Cisco, recently announced that it has taken a leading role in India's BharatNet Phase III initiative, deploying nearly 70% of the network infrastructure using locally designed and manufactured routers. This move not only supports India's Digital India vision but also aligns with Cisco's global sustainability and export strategy.

Local Manufacturing, Global Vision

Cisco’s Chennai production facility, developed in partnership with Flex, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's digital infrastructure narrative. By meeting the government’s requirement of at least 50% local value addition on routing hardware, Cisco is powering the digital backbone with Made-in-India routers—yet maintaining the scalability and resilience expected from a global tech giant.

These routers are key components of BharatNet’s IP-MPLS ring topology architecture, designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet in rural areas. More impressively, they’re ready for export. Cisco estimates around $1.3 billion worth of gear will be produced over two years, serving both domestic and international markets.

The Sustainability–Export Equation

Cisco’s strategy isn’t just about hitting local policy targets. It’s about crafting an intersection of economic development, sustainability, and global competitiveness. Locally manufactured routers reduce carbon footprint and supply chain dependencies, while also enabling India to emerge as a tech hardware exporter in its own right.

By integrating sustainability goals with production scalability, Cisco is turning BharatNet into more than a connectivity mission—it’s a model of green infrastructure development.

Tech That Reaches the Last Mile

With BharatNet’s last-mile delivery built around Wi-Fi hotspots, fiber access, and integration with 4G/5G networks, Cisco’s hardware plays a role that extends beyond the wiring. It’s the glue that binds India’s digital future—from smart villages to e-governance, telemedicine, and online education.

Where Local Meets Global: A Strategic Blueprint

Cisco’s 70% imprint on BharatNet is not merely a statistic—it’s a strategic signal. It shows how multinational firms can align with national priorities, scale local manufacturing, and still meet global sustainability and export ambitions.

As India doubles down on self-reliance in technology, Cisco’s BharatNet involvement could be a blueprint for other sectors—be it MedTech, defense electronics, or AI infrastructure.

India Calls on Cisco to Boost Digital Infrastructure, AI, and 6G Collaboration

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has urged Cisco to significantly expand its presence in India’s rapidly growing digital ecosystem, emphasizing the country’s pivotal role in shaping the global tech future.

• Participants: Scindia met with Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins and his leadership team in New Delhi.
• Focus Areas:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 6G development
  • Cybersecurity enhancement
  • Inclusive digital growth, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
  • Grassroots innovation to uplift the common man
• Strategic Vision: Scindia emphasized India’s emergence as a global innovation hub and invited Cisco to co-create solutions that empower communities and prepare future generations.

Cisco’s Growing India Footprint

• Cisco inaugurated its first manufacturing facility in Chennai in 2024, in partnership with Indian contract manufacturer Flex.
• The facility is expected to:
  • Generate $1.3 billion annually through exports and domestic production
  • Create 1,200 jobs
  • Produce advanced telecom equipment, contributing to India’s “AtmanirbharBharat” (self-reliant India) in tech

Broader Implications

Scindia’s outreach reflects India’s ambition to:

• Lead in next-gen technologies like 6G
• Build a secure, inclusive, and future-ready digital Bharat
• Attract global tech giants to invest deeper in its digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystem.

Cisco’s Wireless Tech Helps Safely Remove Hazardous Waste from Brazil’s Dams

Brazil’s mining industry has long relied on tailings dams—massive containment structures holding mining byproducts. However, poorly constructed dams have led to catastrophic collapses, most notably in Mariana (2015) and Brumadinho (2019), which caused hundreds of deaths and severe environmental damage. Now, the country is racing to safely decommission these unstable dams, but traditional methods pose extreme risks to workers.

Since the terrain is unstable, traditional on-site operations would be too dangerous. Instead, operators work from a central command center, viewing real-time camera feeds and sensor data to control bulldozers and excavators remotely.

The challenge was ensuring ultra-low latency (<10ms) and seamless connectivity, as even a half-second delay in video transmission could lead to accidents. Cisco URWB provides instant response times, allowing operators to steer equipment as if they were physically inside the vehicle.

Enter Cisco’s Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB), a cutting-edge networking technology that enables the safe remote operation of heavy machinery in hazardous environments.

A Brazilian engineering firm is using remotely controlled heavy machinery to remove hazardous mining byproducts without putting workers at risk. Since the terrain is unstable, traditional on-site operations would be too dangerous. Instead, operators work from a central command center, viewing real-time camera feeds and sensor data to control bulldozers and excavators remotely. 

The Solution: Remote-Controlled Heavy Machinery

Aterpa, a Brazilian engineering firm, is using bulldozers and excavators controlled from a command center rather than putting human operators inside the vehicles. This approach eliminates the risk of landslides and structural failures that could harm workers.

But this shift requires instantaneous communication between operators and machinery. A split-second delay could lead to misalignment, accidents, or inefficiencies in handling debris. This is where Cisco’s URWB comes in.

How Cisco’s URWB Works

URWB is designed for high-speed, low-latency communication, ensuring that remote-controlled equipment responds in real time. Here’s how it achieves this:

• Ultra-Low Latency (< 10ms) Unlike standard wireless networks, URWB ensures near-instantaneous data transmission, allowing operators to steer equipment with precision.
• Seamless Connectivity Across Harsh Terrain: Traditional networks struggle in remote, unstable areas, but URWB delivers consistent signal strength, ensuring uninterrupted control.
• High-Bandwidth for Video Feeds: Operators rely on live-streamed camera feeds to navigate machinery remotely. URWB supports high-resolution video transmission without lag.
• Industrial-Grade Reliability: Unlike Wi-Fi or public cellular networks, URWB is built to withstand extreme environmental conditions, ensuring dependable communication in disaster zones.

Why Not Use Wi-Fi or 5G?

Wi-Fi 6E, while offering improved speed over previous generations, is not designed for industrial automation. Its range is shorter, and it struggles with interference in outdoor environments. Public 5G networks offer broad coverage but lack the ultra-low latency necessary for instant remote control. Cisco’s URWB fills this gap by combining the real-time responsiveness of fiber networks with the flexibility of wireless technology.

Beyond Brazil: Other Applications of URWB

Cisco’s URWB is not just revolutionizing mining cleanup. It’s already being deployed in:

• Autonomous Vehicles & Robotics: Supporting real-time control in factories and ports.
• Railway Safety: Enabling automatic train control for improved efficiency and accident prevention.
• Smart Cities & Security: Powering AI-driven surveillance for traffic monitoring and emergency response.

Final Thoughts

By enabling safe, remote mining cleanup, Cisco’s URWB is proving that wireless technology isn’t just about convenience—it can save lives. As industries continue to adopt AI-powered automation, high-speed wireless networks like URWB will play a crucial role in shaping the future of industrial safety and efficiency.

Would you like more technical details on Cisco’s URWB architecture or a comparison with private 5G?

Hackers vs. AI: 86% of Firms Hit by Cyber Threats—Who’s Winning?

Cisco's 2025 Cybersecurity Readiness Index reveals that only 4% of organizations worldwide have reached a "Mature" level of cybersecurity readiness. This is a slight improvement from last year's 3%, but it still highlights significant gaps in global preparedness.

The Index evaluates companies' readiness across five pillars—Identity Intelligence, Network Resilience, Machine Trustworthiness, Cloud Reinforcement, and AI Fortification— and encompassing 31 solutions and capabilities. Based on a double-blind survey of 8,000 private sector security and business leaders in 30 global markets, respondents detailed their deployment stages for each solution. Companies were then categorized into four readiness stages: Beginner, Formative, Progressive, and Mature.

Key Findings:

The lack of cybersecurity readiness globally is alarming as 71% of respondents anticipate business disruptions from cyber incidents within the next 12 to 24 months.

• AI-related security incidents affected 86% of organizations in the past year.
• 49% of respondents believe their employees fully understand AI-related threats, while 48% think their teams grasp how malicious actors use AI for attacks.
• Nearly half of organizations suffered cyberattacks, struggling with complex security frameworks.
• 71% of respondents anticipate business disruptions due to cyber incidents within the next 12 to 24 months.
• Only 45% of organizations allocate more than 10% of their IT budget to cybersecurity, down from 53% last year.

The report evaluates cybersecurity readiness across five pillars: Identity Intelligence, Network Resilience, Machine Trustworthiness, Cloud Reinforcement, and AI Fortification. AI is both a security tool and a threat, with 89% of organizations using AI for threat detection, response, and recovery

The report said that — to tackle today’s cybersecurity challenges, organizations must invest in AI-driven solutions, simplify security infrastructures, and enhance AI threat awareness. Prioritizing AI for threat detection, response, and recovery is essential, as is addressing talent shortages and managing risks from unmanaged devices and shadow AI.

Jio Platforms, Nokia, AMD and Cisco to Build An Open AI Platform for Telecom

• The planned platform is a solutions-oriented, multi-domain intelligence framework aimed at enhancing network security and efficiency, reducing total cost of ownership (TCO)
• Jio Platforms Limited (JPL), along with AMD, Cisco, and Nokia, plans to build an Open Telecom AI Platform to redefine telecom operations with cutting-edge AI integration
• Technology from these industry leaders is pioneering the use of AI across its different forms including Agentic AI, general and domain specific LLMs and SLMs, and other non-GenAI ML techniques to set new standards for the future of telecom

Jio Platforms Limited (JPL), in collaboration with AMD, Cisco, and Nokia, has announced the launch of an Open Telecom AI Platform. This initiative, unveiled at the Mobile World Congress 2025, aims to revolutionize the telecom industry by integrating AI and automation into every layer of network operations. This was announced by the companies at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona. 

The platform will be LLM agnostic and utilize open APIs to optimize its functionality and capabilities. It combines agentic AI with Large Language Models (LLMs), domain-specific Small Language Models (SLMs), and non-GenAI machine learning techniques to enable end-to-end intelligence for network management and operations.

Reliance Jio will be the first customer to deploy this platform, creating a replicable reference architecture for the global service provider industry. The platform is designed to enhance network efficiency, security, and operational intelligence while creating new revenue opportunities for service providers.

 

This collaboration aims to transform networks into self-optimizing, customer-aware ecosystems that adapt in real-time, enhance user experiences, and create new service and revenue opportunities across the digital ecosystem.

The platform will support multiple LLMs, ensuring flexibility and adaptability across various applications. Domain-specific SLMs will be utilized to provide targeted intelligence for specific network functions.

Traditional machine learning methods i.e. Non-GenAI Machine Learning Techniques will be integrated to enable end-to-end intelligence for network management and operations.

In this collaboration for open telcos AI platform, AMD will contribute high-performance CPUs and GPUs to enhance the platform's scalability, security, and efficiency. Cisco will provide integrated solutions to support the platform's overall functionality. Nokia will bring its expertise in the areas of RAN, Core, Fixed Broadband, and Transport Technologies to ensure comprehensive AI integration across the network.

Jio Platforms (JPL) plays a pivotal role in the development and deployment of the Open Telecom AI Platform. Jio will be the first customer to deploy the platform, creating a replicable reference architecture for the global service provider industry.

These technologies will work together to create a centralized intelligence layer for telecom and digital services, optimizing network performance, security, and operational efficiency.

Jio will be the first customer to deploy the platform, creating a replicable reference architecture for the global service provider industry.

The platform is designed to enhance network efficiency, security, and operational intelligence while creating new revenue opportunities for service providers. Jio's involvement ensures that the platform is adaptable and scalable, meeting the needs of modern telecom operators.

Cisco Announced First, Jointly Developed AI Agent from Its Strategic Partner Mistral AI

First Jointly Developed AI Agent Helps Customers Maximize Cisco Investments and Boosts Productivity

• Powerful Partnership: The first of several AI agents being developed by Cisco with Mistral AI as a strategic technology partner, to help drive Cisco’s Customer Experience (CX) move towards an Agentic-AI-Led future.
• AI-Powered Efficiency: The AI Renewals Agent streamlines and enhances the creation process for Cisco’s Renewals team by analyzing data from 50 sources to build custom proposals tied to customer outcomes.
• Strategic On-Premises Deployment: Custom AI model ensures data security, privacy, and compliance, while also enabling performance tuning and cost optimization.

Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), the worldwide leader in security and networking, today announced the first, jointly developed AI Agent from its strategic partnership with Mistral AI, one of Europe’s leading providers of AI solutions. The AI Renewals Agent greatly enhances and streamlines the renewal proposal creation process at Cisco by consolidating both structured and unstructured data from over 50 signals and sources and providing real-time sentiment analysis, summarized recommendations, intelligent automation, and personalization, all tied to customer outcomes and key performance indicators (KPIs).

By automating tasks and optimizing workflows, the AI Renewals Agent enables strategic focus and customer engagement, enhancing satisfaction and retention, and driving growth. Built using a custom AI model, the solution operates on-premises, ensuring data security, privacy, and compliance as well as empowering performance tuning and cost optimizations. It is estimated that the AI Renewal Agent could reduce the time spent building a renewal proposal and preparing for a customer engagement by as much as 20%, a figure poised to grow as the AI agent improves based on usage and more workflows are automated.

The new agent is the latest AI innovation for Cisco’s Customer Experience (CX) organization and continues to demonstrate how Cisco is delivering against its vision of using AI to make every customer experience personalized, proactive and predictive, and delivering unique outcomes that exceed customers’ expectations.

“Mistral AI is a critical partner for Cisco Customer Experience (CX) as we build towards an Agentic-AI-Led future,” said Liz Centoni, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Experience Officer, Cisco. “In addition to cutting-edge AI technology, Mistral AI shares our mission to put the customer at the center of everything we do. The AI Renewals Agent is an important milestone and the first of many innovative solutions that we’re going to build together. The impact on our teams is also significant as we continue to look at opportunities to simplify and reduce friction in their jobs. By combining our large data set, customer trust and Mistral’s industry-leading technology, we are on our way towards shaping the future of customer and employee engagement.”

“This announcement marks another significant milestone in our strategic partnership with Cisco,” said Arthur Mensch, CEO, Mistral AI. “It demonstrates how GenAI can enhance access to rich and complex information sources, deliver critical value to Cisco’s customers and ecosystem, and save considerable time for all stakeholders involved. This achievement has been made possible thanks to the exceptional talent of Cisco’s engineering teams.”

Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Cisco to Challenge Modi Govt's Decision to Auction Lower 6GHz Spectrum Band in Court

Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Cisco are considering legal action against the Indian government's decision to auction the lower 6GHz spectrum band for telecom services instead of delicensing it for broader WiFi and AI applications.

Key Points:

1. Auction Decision: The Indian government recently approved the auction of the lower 6GHz spectrum band for use by telecom operators to offer wireless telephony services using technologies like 5G and 6G.
2. Tech Companies' Stance: The tech giants argue that this decision could hinder India's technological growth and economic benefits, as the global trend is to delicense these airwaves for broader applications.
3. Broadband India Forum (BIF): The BIF, representing major tech firms, has been advocating for the delicensing of the 6GHz band, highlighting its importance for data-intensive applications such as AR/VR, gaming streaming, and artificial intelligence.
4. Global Practices: In many countries, including the US, the 6GHz spectrum has been delicensed, allowing non-telecom companies to operate in this band and offer services like WiFi-6.

The tech companies believe that the combined economic benefit of delicensing the 6GHz spectrum and the innovation it would foster would be much higher than the one-off revenue from an auction.

US Govt's CISA Issues Guidance for Cisco Devices Frequently Targeted by China-affiliated Threat Actors

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued specific guidance for network engineers and defenders to patch and secure Cisco network devices in response to the Salt Typhoon cyber-espionage campaign linked to the People's Republic of China (PRC). 

Cisco gear has been frequently targeted by PRC-affiliated threat actors, says the CISA guidance, which is developed in collaboration with other cybersecurity agencies from Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

The guidance titled "Enhanced Visibility and Hardening Guidance for Communications Infrastructure" is a joint publication by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), National Security Agency (NSA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Australian Signals Directorate's Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), Canadian Cyber Security Centre (CCCS), and New Zealand's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC-NZ).

The guide aims to provide best practices for network engineers and defenders to strengthen visibility and harden network devices against cyber threats, particularly those affiliated with the People's Republic of China (PRC).

CISA has provided Cisco-specific advice, including patching vulnerable devices and following best practices outlined in Cisco's IOS XE Hardening Guide and Guide to Securing NX-OS Software Devices.

Enhancing visibility means having detailed insight into network traffic, user activity, and data flow, which helps in quickly identifying threats and vulnerabilities. Hardening involves implementing measures to secure network devices and reduce potential entry points for cyber threats.

Scope of Attacks: The attacks compromised networks of eight telecommunications providers, exfiltrating customer call records and compromising private communications.

The guide includes recommendations such as patching vulnerable devices, monitoring configuration changes, and implementing strong network flow monitoring solutions.

Enhanced Visibility and Hardening Guidance

Patch Vulnerabilities: Ensure all network devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls, are up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Monitor Configuration Changes: Implement comprehensive alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized changes to network devices. Store configurations centrally and push them to devices.

Network Flow Monitoring: Implement a strong network flow monitoring solution to gain visibility into network traffic and detect anomalies.

Strong Authentication: Use strong passwords and implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to enhance security

End-to-End Encryption: Adopt end-to-end encryption for communications to protect data from interception.

Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Implementation Steps

Update Systems: Regularly update all network devices and software to the latest versions.

Implement Monitoring Tools: Deploy network monitoring tools to track traffic and detect unusual activities.

Centralize Configurations: Store device configurations centrally and push updates to devices to prevent unauthorized changes.

Enable Alerts: Set up alerts for any configuration changes or unusual activities on network devices.

Use Strong Passwords: Enforce the use of strong, unique passwords for all network devices and accounts.

Implement 2FA: Enable two-factor authentication for accessing critical network devices and systems.

Encrypt Communications: Ensure that all sensitive communications are encrypted end-to-end.

Conduct Audits: Perform regular security audits and penetration tests to identify and fix vulnerabilities.

By following these recommendations, telecommunications providers can significantly enhance their network security and protect against sophisticated cyber-espionage campaigns like Salt Typhoon.

Began in 2022, Salt Typhoon has targeted at least eight U.S. telecommunications providers, including major companies like AT&T, Verizon, and Lumen Technologies. The malicious campaign has also affected telecommunications infrastructure in other countries, highlighting the global nature of cybersecurity threats.

Cisco Merges Meraki and Catalyst Into Single Wireless Brand 'Cisco Wireless'

'Cisco Wireless' is now the new unified brand that combines Cisco's Meraki and Catalyst product lines into a single wireless offering

Cisco, on Tuesday, announced the merger of its Meraki and Catalyst product lines into a single wireless brand called Cisco Wireless, at the company's Live conference in Australia on Tuesday. This consolidation aims to simplify licensing, add more value, and provide a seamless wireless management experience across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid networks.

The new Cisco Wireless brand will encompass both Meraki and Catalyst products.

Unified Licensing

Cisco has streamlined its licensing structure, offering Essentials and Advantage tiers with different levels of functionality.

The new 'Cisco Wireless' offers a single license that covers the entire Wi-Fi 7 solution, simplifying the purchasing and management process.

Wi-Fi 7 Access Points

Cisco has debuted two new Wi-Fi 7 access points, the CW9178 and CW9176, which can be managed using either on-prem controllers or cloud tools. Wi-Fi 7 offers significant performance upgrades, including higher data transfer rates, reduced network congestion, and support for advanced applications like AR and VR.

The new access points are AI-native, self-configuring, and built for resilient, secure connections.

Global Consistency

For Global Consistency in the new Cisco Wireless product line, regional variations are now implemented in software, allowing for consistent hardware across different markets.

Software-Defined Adjustments: The hardware remains consistent across regions, with local variations handled through software configurations, ensuring compliance with regional regulations without the need for different hardware models.

Previously, Cisco had to create different product models to meet regional regulations and requirements, which led to regional variations in their devices. This meant that devices sold in different regions might have had slight variations in hardware to comply with local regulations, such as radio frequency (RF) power limits, wireless spectrum usage, and other regulatory requirements.

With the new unified Cisco Wireless' brand, these regional variations are now implemented in software rather than hardware. This allows for a single product model that works globally, automatically adapting to local regulations through software configurations. This change simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and provides customers with consistent hardware that can be used worldwide.

Support, previously optional, is now included in the new licenses.

Deployment

Cisco Wireless solutions can be managed on-premises, in the cloud, or in a hybrid environment, providing ultimate flexibility.

This consolidation is expected to reduce design and manufacturing work for Cisco while providing customers with simplified product portfolios and licenses starting from December 2024. 

Cisco Opens First India Plant to Manufacture NCS 540 Series of Routers

Cisco has established its first manufacturing plant in India, in partnership with Flex, marking a significant milestone for both the company and the Indian tech industry. Positioned to produce the NCS 540 series of routers, this plant represents Cisco's commitment to enhancing local production capabilities under prime minister Modi's Make in India initiative.

Flex is a global manufacturing company that provides end-to-end solutions for various industries, including electronics, medical devices, and more. Flex offer services from design and engineering to post-production and logistics. Flex is known for its advanced manufacturing technologies and sustainability initiatives. 

The Cisco Network Convergence System (NCS) 540 Series is a family of routers designed to support a variety of network applications, including mobile backhaul, remote PHY, carrier Ethernet, and private WAN MPLS.

The move follows a global trend of companies looking to diversify their manufacturing bases and respond to changing geopolitical landscapes.

As a prominent player in the networking technology space, Cisco aims to leverage India's growing tech ecosystem, providing a boost to both innovation and local employment. This strategic decision reflects a blend of operational efficiency and a keen understanding of regional market dynamics.

Significance of Manufacturing the NCS 540 Series of Routers

The NCS 540 series of routers are pivotal for modern network architectures, designed to cater to growing bandwidth demands and the increasing need for reliable connectivity. Manufacturing these routers locally is expected to reduce dependencies on imported technology, aligning with the Indian government's 'Make in India' initiative.

This local production not only enhances Cisco’s ability to respond quickly to market needs but also ensures better control over the supply chain. Furthermore, the focus on NCS 540 routers underscores Cisco's dedication to providing cutting-edge technology tailored to the specific requirements of its Indian customers.

Economic Impact on Local Employment and the Tech Industry

The establishment of Cisco's manufacturing plant is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities within the local community and the broader tech industry. Skilled labor will be in demand, ranging from production specialists to engineers, fostering skill development and professional growth. In addition to direct employment, the plant's presence will spur job creation in ancillary sectors, promoting a vibrant ecosystem of suppliers and service providers. The economic ripple effect is expected to invigorate local economies and enhance community livelihoods, demonstrating the broader benefits of foreign direct investment.

Cisco's Strategy in the Indian Market

Cisco's decision to manufacture in India reflects a well-thought-out strategy to align itself with governmental initiatives aimed at boosting local manufacturing and technology development. The plan is not only about cost efficiency but also focuses on building a resilient supply chain that can better serve the unique needs of the Indian market. By localizing manufacturing, Cisco positions itself to enhance its competitive edge against global rivals. This strategic move signals Cisco's long-term commitment to India as a crucial market for its future growth and innovation goals.

Technology and Innovation in Router Production

The production of the NCS 540 series routers will involve advanced manufacturing techniques and state-of-the-art technology. Emphasizing automation and precision, Cisco plans to incorporate innovative practices that ensure high-quality outputs while minimizing waste. This approach not only showcases Cisco's dedication to sustainability but also enhances operational efficiency.

As the plant ramps up production, it will likely serve as a model for best practices in tech manufacturing, inspiring adoption across the industry.

Future Prospects for Cisco's Growth and Expansion in India

Looking ahead, Cisco's investment in the Indian market signals the potential for extensive growth and expansion opportunities. As the demand for sophisticated networking solutions continues to rise, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in digital transformation.

Furthermore, by fostering partnerships within the local ecosystem, Cisco can enhance its product offerings and diversify its technological capabilities. This strategic investment not only solidifies Cisco's presence in India but also sets the stage for future innovations that will support the country's digital infrastructure needs.

Airtel's B2B Arm and Cisco Launch Airtel Software-Defined (SD) Branch for Enterprise Networking Solutions

Airtel Business, the B2B arm of Bharti Airtel (Airtel), and Cisco, the worldwide leader in networking and security, today, launched Airtel Software-Defined (SD) Branch — a simple, secure, cloud-based, end-to-end-managed network solution for enterprises.

This new solution leverages the Cisco Meraki platform to provide centralized management, scalability, and robust connectivity across multiple locations.

The SD-Branch solution aims to enhance network performance, security, and flexibility, making it easier for enterprises to manage their network infrastructure efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for businesses operating in dispersed environments with distributed applications.

The Airtel SD-Branch solution, powered by Cisco Meraki, offers several key features designed to simplify and secure enterprise networking:

1. Centralized Management: Unified management of networks across LAN, WAN, and security from a single dashboard.

2. Intuitive Dashboards: Real-time analytics and insights into network performance, devices, and location data.

3. Automated Processes: Streamlined operations with automated network provisioning and management.

4. Advanced Security: Enhanced security features including malware protection, content filtering, identity-based firewall, and intrusion prevention.

5. High-Performance Connectivity: Robust connectivity solutions tailored to meet specific business requirements.

6. Scalability: Easily scalable to accommodate business expansion and changing network needs.

7. Cost Optimization: OPEX-based pricing model and shared resources to reduce costs compared to multiple vendor solutions.

These features aim to provide enterprises with a flexible, secure, and efficient network infrastructure, making it easier to manage and optimize their branch networks.