Cisco acquires 4G tech vendor Starent Networks for $2.9B

Today, Cisco announced that it has completed its acquisition of Starent Networks, a name that has been popping up in greater frequency as wireless networks evolve into their next generation.

Starent deals in core multimedia technology used in all types of mobile radio networks, and has made a strong showing in emerging technologies. Just this year, the company became a partner in Verizon's LTE deployment, it has worked with 3GPP on new Femtocell standards, and launched a new method of network traffic management for 3G/4G network operators.

Today's announcement completes the deal first publicized in October. Starent will become part of a new group in Cisco called the Mobile Internet Technology Group which falls under the Service Provider Group. Starent's president and CEO, Ashraf Dahod will become senior vice president and general manager of this new group.

Starent's aggregate purchase price was about $2.9 billion, and Cisco expects the investment to become accretive by 2012.