The IE 2000 series is an extension of Cisco's current i, the and the IE 3000 series. They are intended to address the expansion of machine-to-machine communications on factory floors and in other .

DISASTER RECOVERY:

According to Cisco, by 2016 there will be nearly 2 billion machine-to-machine connections -- including GPS systems in cars and asset tracking systems in shipping and manufacturing sectors. This necessitates improved connectivity across industrial equipment and enterprise networks, the company says.

The IE 2000 switches are designed to provide consistent network services between industrial environments and enterprise business , and also enhanced and manageability. The switches also provide secure remote access and monitoring of automated systems, and energy management with visibility into machine performance, Cisco says.

The new switches can also deliver video and other corporate applications to manufacturing plant floor, Cisco says.