Cisco Makes New Wireless Play

Cisco (CSCO Quote) says it will acquire closely held Cognio to bolster its wireless networking lineup.

The Germantown, Md., upstart makes radio wave analysis systems that help detect devices and sources of interference in wireless networks. The products are sold to businesses that operate WiFi networks or stores, as well as warehouses that use radio-frequency ID systems.

No terms of the deal were disclosed. Cisco expects to close the transaction by the end of October.

Cisco says the Cognio products will be added to its wireless networking unit. The company entered the wireless networking market in a big way with its purchase of Linksys four years ago.

Cisco shares rose 13 cents to $31.63 in premarket trading Tuesday.