Cisco wants to put AI and machine learning deeper into the network with updates

Cisco has unveiled a series of software enhancements designed to bring artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning deeper into the network. These include new network automation and analytics tools, which give IT teams more insight and visibility into network data.

The new machine learning features collect relevant data from local networks and correlate it with collected, anonymized data, creating individualized network baselines that constantly adapt as more devices, users and apps are added, knows ZDNet. Machine learning also correlates network data with baselines to identify potential network problems and notify IT before problems occur.

In addition, Cisco has added new machine-reasoning algorithms for improved troubleshooting. This enables IT administrators and network engineers to detect and resolve problems and vulnerabilities more quickly.

Other integrations

In addition, updates have been made to the intent-based networking technology, which the company has integrated into its entire enterprise access portfolio to help customers manage more users and devices. This is now extended to include multi-domain integrations, designed to provide end-to-end security, segmentation and application experiences.

According to Cisco, the integration of SD-Access with SDWAN and Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) should make it easier for IT teams to authorize, board and segment users and devices in different industries, data centers and cloud networks. Application requirements are now automatically passed between the data center and the WAN, to enhance the application experience. It has also expanded threat detection in encrypted traffic in public clouds.

In addition, new ruggedized industrial switches, access points and routers have been added, intended to extend the intent-based networking technology to harsh environments such as chemical factories and oil refineries.

DevNet

Finally, updates have been made available for DevNet, the Cisco developer program. DevNet has new community resources, including a new developer center called Cisco DevNet Automation Exchange. This includes a managed repository of code for a series of network automation use cases. Also new is the DNA Center Platform, which helps developers to build new applications and integrations.

In addition, new DevNet certifications are being introduced to boost software developers’ programming skills. This month new courses will be rolled out, exams will be available in February 2020.