WiMax technology developer Navini Networks Inc. is being bought by Cisco Systems Inc. for about $330 million in cash and assumed options. Cisco plans to integrate Navini into its wireless networking business unit, under the Ethernet and wireless technology group. When asked why Cisco didn't enter the WiMax market a few years ago, Cisco CDO Charles Giancarlo (right) said, "Recently, the WiMax radio systems to deliver broadband wireless have matured, customers are deploying live networks, and overall investment and demand has increased." Says Brett Galloway, VP and general manager of the wireless networking business unit, "Around the world broadband wireless networks based upon WiMax have the potential to add millions of new Internet users who cannot be reached economically using copper or fiber infrastructures."

Cisco has made nine other acquisitions this year, with Navini being No. 124 in the firm's history.
— Baz Hiralal

Go to the deal announcement

Join Corporate Dealmaker's LinkedIn forum