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Product Innovation and Stewardship

Energy Efficiency

The path to energy-efficient networks begins with devices that operate efficiently, but more important is how these devices work together to create systems and environments that result in greater overall energy efficiencies. For example:

  • The consolidation of services onto a single device eliminates the need to power multiple devices.
  • Embedded network services that support new and more environmentally and cost-efficient work practices, such as collaboration technologies that reduce travel.

Cisco is participating in cross-industry and public/private consortia to define a power standard for networking equipment. Meanwhile, customers are seeing varying approaches to measuring the energy efficiency of networking products and are often confused by conflicting claims and distorted comparisons.


Examples of these measurement approaches include:

  • Power utilized
  • Watts consumed
  • Throughput capacity
  • Service capability

While power standards are being defined, Cisco has joined many of its peer companies in taking a more conservative approach by publishing maximum power supply ratings for its products. This helps our customers plan for worst-case scenarios and build appropriate safeguards, although power maximums are rarely achieved in real-world situations.


Resources





Industry Resources and Recognition

  • Smart 2020 Report
    This detailed report explores how information technology can enable a low-carbon economy in the information age.