U.S. networking giant Cisco has agreed to acquire UK’s AXIOSS Software for approximately $31 million in cash.

With the acquisition, Cisco (News - Alert) hopes to extend network and service management technologies across its IP-based network platforms and enable service providers to more quickly launch new video, data, mobility and cloud services to their customers, using a single management architecture.

AXIOSS Software is currently owned by UK-based Comptel Corporation and upon the acquisition the AXIOSS team will be integrated into the Cisco NMTG and Cisco Advanced Services Group.

To begin with, Cisco will acquire the AXIOSS software suite, a fulfillment platform that strengthens the Cisco service provider management offering by automating ordering and fulfillment. Analysts say this software will enhance Cisco Prime, which enables service providers to better manage their networks and network services.

 "With the acquisition of AXIOSS software and talent, we will help enable service providers to generate greater profits using single management architecture to drive quick monetization and optimization of their Cisco network investments," said Jesper Andersen (News - Alert), senior vice president and general manager, Network Management Technology Group (NMTG), Cisco.

As mobile Internet devices and bandwidth intensive applications drive explosive growth in IP-based networks, service providers are scrambling to invest in their infrastructure to support customers' needs. Cisco’s acquisition of AXIOSS is the part of its strategy to cash in on this trend.

"Through the acquisition of AXIOSS software and talent we will be investing in a unique set of technology and skills in the UK that will be a valuable addition to Cisco's network management portfolio," said Jordi Ferrer, managing director, UK Service Provider and Media, Cisco.

Cisco is now planning to deliver network management technology and services that will help service providers significantly increase the speed and lower the costs of delivering a wide range of voice, video and data services to their customers.

Cisco says the AXIOSS software suite has already been integrated into the Cisco managed services solutions. The Cisco Advanced Services operational support systems practice will offer implementation, customization and integration services for the Cisco Prime fulfillment platform as a result of the acquisition.

The acquisition, however, is subject to various standard closing conditions and is expected to be complete in the third quarter of calendar year 2011.

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