Cisco is known for its high quality and highly reliable network equipment. This reputation is enjoyed by even aftermarket enterprise networking equipment, and used Cisco routers, switches, access servers, and VoIP equipment can still deliver the kind of performance Cisco is known for.
However, businesses and IT professionals in the pre-owned Cisco equipment market should ensure that they only work with Cisco-certified partners. This is the best way to ensure that the hardware meets the strict standards set by the company.
Companies that specialize in handling aftermarket network equipment must ensure that all devices that come through their doors and into the hands of their customers can perform with the same level of reliability that new equipment can provide. Some hardware vendors even have multiple layers of checks and quality checks, starting with a visual inspection of the equipment, to testing and resetting the settings. This assures customers that the equipment they purchased will be in virtually the same condition as the day it originally left the factory.
Even after the hardware has left the warehouse, a professional ancillary equipment provider will have the essential support infrastructure in place to ensure that used Cisco routers and other network equipment in your facility can perform as expected. In the event of equipment failure during the warranty period, the vendor should also be able to immediately ship a replacement unit to prevent unnecessary system downtime.
While buying new equipment will always be an option for anyone building or upgrading a network, the promise of comparable quality and affordability makes refurbished hardware a better option for more cost-conscious customers.