Cisco is a global provider of networking infrastructure, designing and building everything from routers and wireless access points to the software that’s used to secure them. Founded in 1984 by a team of Stanford computer scientists, Cisco went public in 1990 and was added to the Dow Jones industrial average in 2009. Cisco made a flurry of acquisitions in the 2010s and into the 2020s. It closed in March 2024 on a $28 billion deal for Splunk, a cybersecurity and analytics firm, as part of a larger bet on companies adopting AI.
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Best Large Workplaces in the Bay Area 2026
Employees say:
"At Cisco, our conscious culture is the cornerstone that makes this company an exceptional place to work. We foster an environment where collaboration and mutual support are paramount, creating a family-like atmosphere rather than a competitive one. Our employees are encouraged to uplift and recognize each other's achievements, inspiring one another to excel. Additionally, Cisco offers outstanding benefits, including the flexibility of telecommuting, which has allowed me to stay connected with colleagues both in-office and remotely for over 15 years. This commitment to inclusivity and support is what truly sets Cisco apart as a great place to work!"
"I have excellent leadership that supports my decisions and encourages me to explore new ideas. Every day, I have the opportunity to identify different ways to improve our processes and enhance employee experiences. I am recognized and rewarded for the work I do and the contributions I make to Cisco."
"Company culture is very supportive and collaborative. I have had multiple instances where my peers were more than willing and helping to achieve a common goal. There were couple projects which were completed way ahead of schedule. Manager is very clear in setting the expectations and is an excellent mentor guiding us in right direction. We are always encouraged to develop our skills and improve with no hand-holding. Glad to be part of this organization."
"We talk about being inclusive all the time but at Cisco it is real. We have the opportunity to engage deeply with people of different backgrounds on a regular basis and I think that is unique to Cisco. We are given tons of opportunities even on a weekly basis to interact with people from across the globe through events, trainings, stretch assignments, collaboration events etc., where we get the chance to interact and truly work with people that we would maybe never meet or experience and that breaks down barriers of all kinds. Cisco works to bring people together and let them shine with each other and that is unique and awesome!"
"I have excellent leadership that supports my decisions and encourages me to explore new ideas. Every day, I have the opportunity to identify different ways to improve our processes and enhance employee experiences. I am recognized and rewarded for the work I do and the contributions I make to Cisco."
"I love that we are given complete flexibility with remote work. As a parent, this is a HUGE benefit for me. I am able to provide at home nanny care for my child and don't have a commute adding unnecessary time to a day that is already too short."
"I believe my company is a fantastic place to work. I especially appreciate the remote working options, management's understanding that the quality of work is more important than the location. Additionally recognition for good work, and the emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance makes Cisco a great place to work."
Fortune 100 Best Companies To Work For – Europe 2024
Renowned worldwide for its software, networking, security and computing services, Cisco puts the same level of thought into its employee proposition as it does into its cutting-edge technology. A clearly defined 'Conscious Culture' model embraces three areas; 'environment' (a commitment to workplace respect and equity, including a Full Spectrum Diversity policy); 'characteristics' (a set of guiding principals and behaviors role-modelled by leadership) and 'experience' (the day-to-day experiences employees undergo working for the company). Sustainability is a strong focus across Europe, with paper cup and glass-free sites established, and personalized mugs and water bottles on hand to help employees do their part. CSR is also prioritized, with the company having positively impacted 1 billion people through social impact grants and signature programs.
"Cisco encompasses an environment of inclusion that speaks directly to their employees. It provides the needed tools to expand beyond the daily responsibilities and encourages growth within the company. I've seen this company reward great people in my short time here by moving them up to different roles and that reassures me how Cisco honors everyone's contribution. I feel my work is appreciated and that I am not just filling a position. I consistently feel a part of the bigger picture and celebrate in the overall success of Cisco. It allows a work/home life balance better than any company I had previously worked for in almost 30 years of employment."
"I always feel well taken care of at this company. Cisco has not only invested in my professional growth, but also has allowed me to provide a wonderful life for my family. Cisco's people first focus allows me to be a present mother as well as grow my career. I am VERY thankful for Cisco!"
"I always feel well taken care of at this company. Cisco has not only invested in my professional growth, but also has allowed me to provide a wonderful life for my family. Cisco's people first focus allows me to be a present mother as well as grow my career. I am VERY thankful for Cisco!"
