Cisco
Technology / NetworkingFounded in 1984 at Stanford University, Cisco is the world's largest networking equipment company, providing networking hardware, security, collaboration, and cloud technologies to businesses of all sizes.
Official Cisco Careers Website
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1984
- Origin
- Stanford University, California
- Headquarters
- San Jose, California
- Industry
- Networking & Technology
About Cisco
Cisco was founded in 1984 by Len Bosack and Sandy Lerner, computer scientists at Stanford University, who developed technology to connect the university's disparate computer systems. The company listed on NASDAQ in 1990 and became one of the most valuable companies in the world during the dot-com era.
Cisco is the market leader in enterprise networking and has expanded into cybersecurity, collaboration software (Webex), and AI-driven network management. The 2023 acquisition of Splunk significantly expanded its security and observability portfolio.
What Cisco Does
Networking
Enterprise routers, switches, wireless access points, and network management software.
Security
Firewall, SASE, XDR, and identity security solutions including Duo and Umbrella.
Collaboration
Webex video conferencing, messaging, and contact centre solutions.
Observability & AI
AppDynamics application performance management and Splunk data and security analytics.
Career Areas
Types of professional roles found inside Cisco.
- Software Engineering
- Network Engineering
- Security
- Sales & Business Development
- Customer Success
- Marketing
- Finance
- Research & Development
Cisco's History
- 1984Founded at Stanford
Cisco founded by Len Bosack and Sandy Lerner to connect Stanford University's computer networks.
- 1990IPO on NASDAQ
Cisco lists on NASDAQ.
- 1995John Chambers becomes CEO
John Chambers appointed CEO; leads Cisco through its most rapid growth period.
- 2013Meraki acquired
Cisco acquires Meraki, establishing a leading cloud-managed networking product line.
- 2023Splunk acquired
Cisco acquires Splunk for $28 billion, significantly expanding its security and observability capabilities.
Purpose & Values
“To power an inclusive future for all”
