This will continue to make it difficult for companies to overtake Intel for the foreseeable future. In addition, Intel has invested a lot of capital in building a valuable brand name. Before Intel started promoting its brand name, very few people really had any idea who made the processor that served as the brains of their PCs. It also helps Cisco to sell its products at comparatively higher prices than its competitors. IOS is a key part of Cisco's growth strategy as well.
Cisco regularly buys small companies that are developing innovative products.
Since many network administrators are familiar with IOS, this makes the sale of products using these new technologies a lot easier for Cisco. Another of Cisco's strengths is its ability to market its products and focus on providing its customers what they want. This program provides qualified partners with access to Cisco's customer list, as well as the chance to see product information earlier than those that are not part of the program. Service providers are also allowed to display a CPN logo on their Web sites and in advertisements. The key to all of the above is that it helps to essentially guarantee millions of dollars of sales for Cisco.