What is Cisco?

What it is

Cisco builds the devices that move data around a company. A switch connects the computers, printers and phones in one building. A router passes traffic between that building and the outside world, and a firewall filters what is allowed through.

The company also makes IP phones, which are desk phones that connect over the network instead of a traditional phone line. Because Cisco has sold this kind of equipment for many years, plenty of businesses already own it and want it kept running.

What businesses use it for

• Office switching: switches link wired devices and carry traffic between rooms, floors and server closets.
• Desk phones: IP phones give each employee a handset with a number, voicemail and a speaker.
• Power over the cable: one switch can supply both data and power to phones and other devices.
• Equipment already paid for: working Cisco hardware can stay in service while Cisco still ships security updates for it. Check the end-of-support date before relying on an older model.

How KawaConnect uses Cisco

We install and support Cisco switches and Cisco IP desk phones where a business already has them or prefers them. That covers network segments, cabling and port faults, and documentation that stays current after each change.

If a business has no preference, we may recommend other options, such as Ubiquiti UniFi. Our networking service covers switching and Wi-Fi, and our business phone systems page explains how we set up calling.

Learn more

• Cisco on WikipediaBackground on the company and its main product lines.
• Cisco websiteProduct pages, data sheets, software downloads, and support documents for Cisco equipment.