Cisco Systems (CSCO) has quietly added to its gains this month, with the stock edging higher again in recent sessions. For investors, the move invites a closer look at what is driving sentiment and valuation.

The latest uptick comes on top of a strong run, with Cisco’s share price return of around 31% year to date and a three year total shareholder return above 70%, signaling momentum that investors increasingly see as backed by improving fundamentals and a more constructive risk profile.

If Cisco’s move has you thinking more broadly about the sector, this could be a good moment to explore other network and cloud names via high growth tech and AI stocks.

With the stock now trading near record highs, modestly below analyst targets and intrinsic value estimates, the key question is whether Cisco still offers upside from here or if the market is already pricing in its next leg of growth.

Most Popular Narrative: 8.3% Undervalued

With Cisco closing at $77.75 against a narrative fair value just under $85, the current price implies more upside than the recent rally suggests.

The rapid acceleration in AI infrastructure investment highlighted by record AI infrastructure orders from webscale/cloud customers (doubling targets to $2B in FY25) and continued strength in order pipeline positions Cisco to benefit from surging demand for high performance, AI optimized networking hardware, which is expected to drive both revenue and margin expansion as next generation networks scale globally.

Curious how modest revenue growth, rising margins and a richer future earnings multiple still add up to meaningful upside? See which long term assumptions power this fair value call.

Result: Fair Value of $84.81 (UNDERVALUED)

However, this upside depends on Cisco navigating rising competitive pressure in networking and executing smoothly on its shift to recurring, software-driven revenue.

Build Your Own Cisco Systems Narrative

If you see Cisco’s story differently or prefer to dig into the numbers yourself, you can craft a complete narrative in minutes: Do it your way.

A good starting point is our analysis highlighting 4 key rewards investors are optimistic about regarding Cisco Systems.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.