Q&A: Cisco's CIO envisions AI integration in all products and processes

In less than a year since OpenAI released ChatGPT, Cisco Systems is deeply integrating generative artificial intelligence (genAI) across its entire product line and backend processes.

The tech giant sees genAI as a transformative tool for automating network operations, enhancing security, and driving software innovation. However, Fletcher Previn, Cisco's CIO, acknowledges the challenge of a talent crunch in developing domain-specific AI applications, leading to a learn-as-you-go approach for IT staff.

Previn, who joined Cisco in April 2022 after a long tenure at IBM, is navigating the complex terrain of protecting proprietary AI investments while acknowledging the unpredictable nature of genAI. His conversation with Computerworld sheds light on Cisco's AI journey, from internal applications to product enhancements.

Adopting AI Across Cisco's Operations

Cisco's embrace of AI spans monitoring network anomalies to automating mundane tasks. For instance, AI algorithms sift through vast data, spotting performance issues and enabling predictive maintenance. Automation extends to network management tasks like configuration and device provisioning.

The Ever-Present Need for Human Oversight

Despite AI's prowess, Previn emphasizes the importance of human oversight to ensure AI-generated solutions align with company values and ethics. This is vital, especially as AI begins to interpret data and generate novel responses.

AI-Infused Product Development

AI is rapidly becoming a staple in Cisco's product ecosystem, from security applications to network management. AI-driven tools are proving invaluable for real-time threat detection and network traffic optimization.

AI's Role in Enhancing Employee Efficiency

Previn points to AI's potential in streamlining organizational inefficiencies. AI is revolutionizing Cisco's Webex platform by summarizing meetings and interpreting non-verbal cues, moving toward a more equitable hybrid work environment.

Leveraging AI for Software Development

AI's impact on software development has been unexpectedly profound, with tools like Copilot for Github aiding developers in writing code more efficiently. Previn predicts that AI will influence a significant portion of code submissions by the year's end.

Addressing Intellectual Property and AI

As genAI raises questions about intellectual property, Previn notes the need for societal discourse to delineate original creation from reuse. Cisco is mindful of securing its AI against theft and ensuring responsible use.

Building Domain-Specific AI Models

Cisco is creating proprietary AI models to enhance its products and services, leveraging company knowledge for tailored solutions. This initiative includes constructing GPU-AI clusters with Cisco's Ethernet fabric, demonstrating the company's commitment to pioneering AI development.

The Road Ahead for Cisco's AI

With numerous AI projects underway, Cisco is not only embedding AI into its infrastructure but is also crafting domain-specific models to improve customer service and internal functions. Previn's foresight and strategic direction suggest a future where Cisco's AI capabilities are as integral to its operations as its core networking business.