Let’s talk about Cisco.

Founded in 1984, Cisco (News - Alert) started out developing routers, then expanded its product line to include a wide range of networking equipment, including switches, firewalls and security software.

Today, Cisco remains a stalwart in networking but has also diversified into other areas, such as collaboration tools, cloud computing and cybersecurity solutions. The company offers a wide range of services, including network design, implementation and maintenance.

Cisco is also staking its claim in the evolving landscape of secure, multicloud networking. Recognizing the growing trend of businesses utilizing multiple cloud providers, Cisco is committed to developing solutions that ensure seamless and secure connections across these platforms. This focus on multicloud security reflects the increasing complexity of IT infrastructure, where sensitive data traverses various cloud environments.

A key move in realizing this vision was Cisco's recent acquisition of Isovalent, a company focused on cloud-native networking and security.

Isovalent was a major player in the development of eBPF, a powerful technology that allows for safe code execution within the Linux kernel. They also led the creation of Cilium and Tetragon, open-source projects that provide cloud-native networking and security functionalities.

Their solutions are designed specifically for cloud-based environments to help organizations manage networking and security for applications built using containerization technologies like Kubernetes. While their core projects are open-source, Isovalent also offers an enterprise version of Cilium with additional features like troubleshooting and operational support.

Isovalent's expertise in technologies like eBPF, Cilium and Tetragon strengthens Cisco's ability to deliver advanced threat protection for workloads operating in any cloud environment. This acquisition signifies Cisco's commitment to fostering open-source innovation and building a future where businesses can leverage the power of multiple clouds with confidence.

The Isovalent team joins the Cisco Security Business Group.