Very lengthy. Six round interview process, each of which challenging different intellectual concepts with a unique set of panelists for each from different departments. Some question-based, some memory, and others real-world hypotheticals.

Cisco’s interview process typically begins with an initial recruiter screen to review your background and fit, followed by one or two technical phone or video interviews focused on role-relevant knowledge (e.g., networking fundamentals, software design, or systems architecture). If you advance, you’ll be invited to a virtual or on-site loop of two to four back-to-back interviews—each 45–60 minutes—including deep technical problem-solving, coding or whiteboard exercises (for engineering roles), and behavioral discussions based on their “Leadership Principles” or STAR format. After the technical rounds, you’ll meet with a hiring manager or senior leader to assess team fit and career goals, and finally an HR debrief to discuss compensation, relocation (if applicable), and next steps. Feedback is typically consolidated and communicated within one to two weeks after the final interview.