HCL Technologies to acquire Cisco’s SON Technology

HCL Technologies has announced to acquire products and services built on Cisco Systems’ Self-Optimizing Network (SON) technology for almost $50 million (Rs 378.5 crore) in cash.

Through this acquisition HCL will meet the growing needs of its customers in the telecommunications industry as the technology has become a major component in the move towards 5G networks.

The Cisco SON technology is a powerful platform that uses machine learning and a set of applications to automate the Radio Access Network (RAN). It helps customers boost performance, harmonize the multiple technologies that comprise a RAN, and maximize the capabilities of existing infrastructures, resulting in reduced capital and operational expenditures. As part of the deal, some employees who work on Cisco’s SON technology will move from Cisco to HCL.

HCL also claimed that the assets it is buying provide automation technology to make the planning, configuration and management of radio networks simpler and faster.

Sukamal Banerjee, Corporate Vice President at HCL, said the products and services the company is buying will help it expand its footprint in the telecom industry as it moves towards adopting 5G networks. As part of the deal, some employees who work in Cisco’s San Jose, California based business unit will move to HCL. The company expects to complete the transaction by January 2021.