The IP networking market has re-emerged in the last year. Valuations for top-tier companies are on the rise and these companies, particularly Cisco Systems, are once again shopping for acquisitions. Cisco acquired nine companies in the first half of 2005, including WiFi switching player Airespace for $450 million. Telecom convergence is driving much of the growth in this sector. Wireless and wireline carriers and cable companies are upgrading their networks to IP-based systems. As this trend plays out, the demand for new IP-based networking systems will continue to grow.
For more on the resurgence of the IP networking market:
- check out this piece from CNET