Cisco In Deal To Acquire Location Services Software Firm July Systems

Cisco Systems says it will acquire July Systems, a cloud-based location services software platform vendor based in Burlingame, Calif.

Privately held July Systems uses Wi-Fi analytics to allow retail stores, hotels, convention centers and other large facilities to gain insights into their customers. The July Systems solution is cloud-based and sold on a subscription basis.

With July Systems, San Jose, Calif.-based networking giant Cisco said it will evolve its location services business, and will continue to support and market Cisco Connected Mobile Experiences. Cisco has partnered with July Systems for a number of years as an OEM for mobile experiences, as well as Meraki.

[Related: Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins Sees Evolution Of The Channel As Intent-Based Networking Takes Hold]

July Systems was founded in 2001, and has raised nearly $60 million in venture funding from investors like Sequoia Capital, Intel Capital and others. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. The deal is expected to close during Cisco's fiscal first quarter.

July Systems will become part of Cisco's Enterprise Networking Group, led by Senior Vice President and General Manager Scott Harrell.

Cisco is in the midst of a major shift in emphasis toward software sold on a subscription basis as the market moves away from expensive, proprietary networking hardware. July Systems fits into Cisco's effort to open its DNA Center intent-based networking platform by allowing partners to develop industry-specific solutions for customers, the company said in a blog post.

Partners will have an opportunity to develop solutions that increase customer insights, and develop visitor and guest engagement programs, the company said.