Connected, Protected and Sustainable: Cisco’s Vision for the Network of Tomorrow

As organizations face the demands of hybrid work, multi-cloud environments, and sustainable IT, networking is no longer just an infrastructure component—it’s the backbone of digital transformation. In this exclusive conversation, Brink Sanders, Vice President of Global Networking Sales at Cisco, discusses how Cisco is helping enterprises navigate these challenges with forward-thinking solutions that blend innovation, security, and adaptability.

Networking is evolving into something entirely new at the enterprise level, transforming the way businesses think about and implement connectivity solutions. Concepts like Network as a Service (NaaS), AI-driven operations, and cloud-native models are no longer aspirations—they’re necessities. Yet, with these opportunities come challenges: managing regulatory complexities, ensuring seamless connectivity across diverse environments, and delivering sustainability without compromising performance.

In this conversation during Cisco Live 2024 in Melbourne, Brink Sanders shares an insider’s perspective with Minu Sirsalewala, Executive Editor, on how Cisco is reimagining the future of networks, blending practical solutions with cutting-edge innovation to empower enterprises worldwide.

Network as a Service (NaaS) is gaining momentum as organizations look for more flexible and scalable solutions. How is Cisco uniquely positioned to deliver value here?

NaaS is an interesting space because it means different things to different customers. For most, it’s less about the network itself and more about moving from a CapEx to an OpEx model—essentially paying for what they use, when they use it. But it goes beyond economics. It’s also about simplifying how businesses consume network services.

A great example is our work on Wi-Fi 7, where we’ve embedded AI-powered radio resource management into the access points.

At Cisco, we’re not only delivering scalable solutions on the WAN side—thanks to partnerships with Equinix and Megaport—but we’re also helping our customers wrap services around their unique needs. That customization often comes through our partner ecosystem, which ensures they have the tools to address specific challenges. While demand for fully managed, wrapped network services hasn’t exploded yet, we’re closely monitoring the space and continually refining our offerings to match evolving customer needs.

AI is transforming industries, and networking is no exception. How is Cisco using AI to create more intuitive and proactive experiences?

AI is absolutely central to how we’re enhancing networks. A great example is our work on Wi-Fi 7, where we’ve embedded AI-powered radio resource management into the access points. These systems can dynamically adjust to complex environments—think offices with metal walls or crowded wireless signals—to optimize performance on the fly.

We’re also seeing significant results with our Predictive Path Selection in SD-WAN. By analysing traffic patterns, it proactively redirects data to avoid potential disruptions. For instance, if an Office 365 server experiences issues, our AI can reroute traffic to another server, ensuring uninterrupted performance. This kind of real-time optimization is what makes AI so powerful in networking.

Managing diverse regulatory standards across regions must be challenging. How does Cisco ensure a consistent network experience for its global customers?

It’s definitely a challenge, but also an opportunity for innovation. For instance, with Wi-Fi 7, our access points automatically detect the regulatory domain they’re in and configure themselves accordingly. This eliminates the need for region-specific devices and ensures compliance wherever they’re deployed.

We’ve also introduced a unified licensing model, allowing customers to choose between on-premises management with Catalyst or cloud-based management with Meraki after deployment. It’s about giving customers the flexibility they need without compromising consistency or compliance.

Multi-cloud environments are becoming the norm, but they come with their own complexities. What is Cisco doing to simplify this for enterprises?

One of the biggest challenges with multi-cloud is managing networks in a way that feels seamless—whether on-premises, in the cloud, or somewhere in between. That’s why we’ve developed a continuum of deployment models to meet customers where they are.

For example, our SD-WAN portfolio is designed to provide seamless connectivity across multiple cloud environments. We’re also innovating in policy enforcement with tools like Cisco ICE (Integrated Configuration Environment). It allows a policy defined in one area—say, the campus network—to be applied consistently across cloud and data centre environments. This reduces complexity while improving security and operational efficiency.

Sustainability is a growing priority for businesses. How is Cisco integrating green practices into its solutions?

Sustainability is deeply embedded in our strategy. Take our Silicon One architecture—it’s built for energy efficiency without sacrificing performance. We’re also committed to circular design principles, using recyclable materials in our products and helping customers measure their carbon footprints.

Our goal is to achieve net zero emissions by 2040, and we’re not just looking inward. We’re creating tools and solutions that help our customers make their operations more sustainable too.

Finally, let’s talk about the future. How do you see AI shaping the next phase of networking?

AI is advancing rapidly, but I think the most exciting phase is still ahead. As AI models become more complex, they’ll demand even more from networks—more data, more context, and faster, more reliable connectivity.

For example, in fields like healthcare, where AI might assist in real-time surgical procedures, the network’s ability to deliver instantaneous, secure connections will be critical. Businesses need to start thinking now about how to build networks that can support these demands. It’s not just about staying connected—it’s about staying ahead.

Brink Sanders

Vice President of Global Networking Sales, Cisco

minus@cybermedia.co.in