Cisco Sees Surge in Demand for AI Networking Gear

Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:CSCO) has seen an uptick in demand for its networking gear, particularly in data-center build-outs. This increased demand has led to a surge in orders tied to advanced software computing.

The company's role in the plumbing of modern data centers has drawn fresh scrutiny as operators stand up vast systems for advanced software. Networking sits at the heart of the computing build-out, and Cisco's gear is essential for connecting these systems.

The company has leaned into the shift towards recurring software, which has deepened demand across its business. This combination of networking and protection has become a central theme in the company's story, with security specialists contesting the protection layer.