September 1999
Background Note
HBS Case Collection

Revolution in the Communications Switching Industry

By: Jay O. Light, Lynda M. Applegate and Daniel J. Green

Format:Print
| Pages:12

Abstract

As data packet switches threatened the voice circuit switch industry in 1999, major switch and router vendors began paying high premiums to acquire venture-backed switch companies. This note explains what a switch is and suggests why large vendors might be so anxious to acquire new technology.

Keywords

Acquisition; Restructuring; Capital; Information Technology; Technology Adoption; Communications Industry; Electronics Industry

Citation

Light, Jay O., Lynda M. Applegate, and Daniel J. Green. "Revolution in the Communications Switching Industry." Harvard Business School Background Note 800-121, September 1999.