Extreme Networks studies sale amid interest from Cisco, Fortinet and NetApp

MarketScreener · Esteban Tesson ·

Extreme Networks, the US specialist in computer networking equipment and software, is reportedly considering a sale after attracting interest from several potential buyers, including Cisco Systems,...

Extreme Networks, the US specialist in computer networking equipment and software, is reportedly considering a sale after attracting interest from several potential buyers, including Cisco Systems, Fortinet and NetApp. According to Reuters sources, the group, valued at nearly $3bn on the stock market, has reportedly hired an investment bank to examine its strategic options. Discussions remain exploratory and no formal offer has been announced. Any potential transaction would come amid consolidation in the IT infrastructure sector, driven in particular by growing demand related to cloud computing and artificial intelligence. The stock rose more than 13% at the start of trading on Wall Street.

Founded in 1996 in Silicon Valley and now based in North Carolina, Extreme Networks provides wired and wireless connectivity equipment, as well as network management software. Historically specialized in Ethernet switches, the group has gradually developed cloud solutions and artificial intelligence tools designed to automate infrastructure administration and incident resolution. This evolution could interest companies such as Cisco, Fortinet and NetApp, which are looking to expand their technology offerings and strengthen recurring revenue. The sector has already seen a major transaction with Hewlett Packard Enterprise's acquisition of Juniper Networks, completed in 2025 for $14bn.

Extreme Networks recorded 13% revenue growth during FY 2026, supported in particular by the modernization of network infrastructure. Its CEO, Ed Meyercord, highlighted in August the growth of Platform ONE, its artificial intelligence-based network management platform, which accounted for over 30% of new subscription orders after one year on the market. This momentum could increase the group's appeal to strategic buyers seeking to expand their software businesses. Extreme Networks and NetApp declined to comment on the reports, while Cisco and Fortinet had not immediately responded. No transaction is guaranteed at this stage.

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