Networking News

WATCH: Cisco Boosts SD-WAN Offering With Security, Unveils New Collaboration Tools

The Cisco Partner Conference has kicked off in Las Vegas.

Here’s what you missed from day one:

Cisco Secure SD-WAN unites SD-Wan and security to address to a new cloud edge. WAN is a huge investment area for Cisco and it comes as the space increasingly grows in importance. The rise of data, apps and connected devices means IT has to act quickly to meet a business’ needs and SD WAN makes that happen. Cisco SD-WAN devices will have advanced security features; the SD-WAN solutions will be open and programmable; and, Cisco is partnering with Microsoft Office 365 to enhance application for users. Cisco also says that by using Microsoft Office URLS, Cisco is able to determine the closest cloud, resulting in what they say is 40 percent faster performance for users.

Cisco also announced innovation on the collaboration front. WebEX SHARE is a small pluggable device that converts any old TV or monitor into a Webex wireless presentation; Room Kit Mini is designed to connect teams using small "huddle spaces;" and Webex Board 55 has been updated to allow for browsing within the solution.

Cisco also introduced a cloud phone system: The juiced-up UC offering is centered on the integration of Cisco's BroadSoft business with the rest of the company's collaboration portfolio. Cisco acquired BroadSoft early this year for about $2 billion. The company is making its BroadCloud phone system available with its Webex Teams through service providers.

Watch CRNtv’s video in this article for a full recap from the event. The Cisco Partner Conference continues until Thursday.