Cisco joins Google in ultra-fast broadband race

Cisco Systems is developing an ultra-high-speed system for Internet access in partnership with a number of US service providers, according to people close to the company. The move by the US telecommunications equipment maker comes just weeks after Google promised it would build an ultra-high-speed fibre-optic system.

The Federal Communications Commission, the US media regulator, is preparing to unveil its national broadband strategy next month. Unlike Google, Cisco's move does not appear to conflict with existing broadband network operators. Some of Cisco's biggest customers, including AT&T and Comcast, the leading telecoms and cable companies, are expected to come under pressure to invest more in high-speed networks once the FCC unveils its plan.