Article Cisco Live 2026: Insight’s Key Takeaways

Whether you're taking your first steps with AI or looking to scale what's already working, one thing is clear: success depends on the strength of what sits beneath it.

At Cisco Live EMEA 2026 in Amsterdam, this principle took centre stage - with the network positioned as the intelligent, secure and resilient backbone that makes AI deliver real business value.

Our dedicated Insight Cisco team were on the ground in Amsterdam to hear these announcements first hand, and it reinforced what we see every day in conversations with our customers. We've summarised the key messages from the keynote to help you understand what's changing, what matters most, and where we can support you in turning these developments into practical, meaningful progress.

AI With Real, Measurable Business Value

Cisco emphasised that ambition alone is no longer enough. Organisations must be able to take AI and turn it into real, quantifiable outcomes that drive meaningful change. They highlighted how strong digital foundations - spanning infrastructure, security and operations - are essential for AI to deliver value across the business.

The Network as the Backbone of the AI Era

Cisco made it clear that AI can only succeed if the network beneath it is strong, intelligent and secure. Their message was that the network is becoming the core platform that enables AI to operate at scale, adapt in real time and support the growing demands of modern digital environments.

Security Embedded End to End

Cisco reinforced that security can no longer be bolted on. Protection must be built into every layer of the environment, enabling continuous defence as threats become more automated and sophisticated. This security first approach ensures organisations remain protected as AI reshapes both opportunity and risk.

Simplified Operations Through Intelligence and Automation

Another key message was the need to simplify how organisations run increasingly complex digital environments. Cisco highlighted the role of automation, proactive insights and unified management in helping IT teams reduce manual effort, increase efficiency and keep pace with rapid technological change.

Data Sovereignty Matters More Than Ever

Cisco also emphasised the growing importance of European data sovereignty. As AI adoption accelerates, organisations need full confidence in where their data lives and how it is protected. Cisco’s message was that AI can only scale safely when compliance, privacy and regional control are built into digital strategies from the start.

Hybrid Work Powered by Human Centred AI

Cisco demonstrated how AI will continue to enhance hybrid working by improving collaboration, communication and user experience. This included features such as real time language translation and more natural meeting interactions to help teams stay connected wherever they work.

What this means for your organisation - and how Insight can help

This year’s Cisco messaging centred on a clear theme: AI, security, hybrid work and compliance all rely on a strong, intelligent and resilient network.

At Insight, we help customers understand how this direction fits their own goals.

Whether you're exploring AI, strengthening security, or simplifying how you manage technology, our team is here to help you turn your business goals into practical, actionable results that deliver real value.

If you’d like to discuss what this could mean for your organisation, please get in touch: UKCiscoCX@insight.com.