ZACKSยท2025-03-06 08:45Industry Overview - The Zacks Computer - Networking industry is expected to benefit from the increasing focus on cloud computing, network security, big data, and cloud storage, driven by the rapid adoption of AI technology [1][3] - The accelerated deployment of 5G is enhancing the Internet of Things (IoT), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) devices, and 5G smartphones, necessitating robust networking infrastructure [2][9] - The Wi-Fi 7 upgrade cycle is anticipated to act as a catalyst for growth in the industry [2][10] Key Trends - The demand for innovative networking products is rising, favoring major players like Cisco Systems, NETGEAR, and RADCOM [3] - The proliferation of IoT and smart connected devices, along with the growing adoption of cloud computing in network security, is driving the need for efficient network support infrastructure [7][8] - Companies are innovating in networking technologies, including network virtualization and Software-Defined Networking, to meet the demand for secure infrastructure [8] Performance Metrics - The Zacks Computer - Networking industry has outperformed the S&P 500 Composite and the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector, gaining 28% over the past year compared to the sector's 12.4% and the S&P 500's 15.6% [15] - The industry is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 20.12X, which is below the S&P 500's 21.53X and the sector's 24.41X [16] Company Highlights Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO) - Cisco is experiencing strong demand for its AI infrastructure solutions, with orders exceeding $700 million in the first half of fiscal 2025, projected to surpass $1 billion by the end of the fiscal year [18] - The company's security business is thriving, with over 1,000 customers for its Cisco Secure Access and XDR solutions [19] - Product orders increased by 29% year over year, with Annualized Recurring Revenues (ARR) of $30.1 billion rising 22% year over year [20] NETGEAR, Inc. (NTGR) - NETGEAR's revenues from the NETGEAR for Business segment increased by 14.9% year over year, driven by strong demand for ProAV managed switch products [23] - The company successfully reduced inventory by $86 million in 2024, enhancing revenue predictability [24] - Recurring services revenues surged by 25% in the latest quarter, with 556,000 recurring subscribers generating $35 million in recurring revenues [25] RADCOM Ltd. (RDCM) - RADCOM specializes in cloud-native, automated service assurance for 5G networks, with a focus on innovation and AI [27] - The company reported record revenues of $16.3 million in the last quarter, marking a 16.1% year-over-year increase [28] - For 2025, RADCOM anticipates revenue growth of 12% to 15%, with a midpoint of $69.2 million, reflecting continued momentum [29]