The cloud is not enough: Cisco embraces the shift toward Hybrid AI workloads

Bottom line: At this year's Cisco Live event in San Diego, one thing became apparent: the opportunity to run modern applications like GenAI and autonomous agents is no longer limited to the cloud. Cisco was ready to highlight several new products and services specifically targeted at major cloud computing providers and large ISPs. They also noted that interest in expanding the capabilities of on-premises data centers is not only still alive, but it's being reinvigorated by the rapid transition to AI-powered workloads.

From new AI-optimized, on-premises-focused routers and switches delivered through the company's traditional networking hardware business, to AI-enhanced versions of their communications, collaboration, and customer support software platforms, and even into their new agentic AI offerings, Cisco made it clear at this year's Live event that it is eager and willing to meet the growing demand for capabilities that businesses can run within their own ...