Dave's Download

Network Magic's Charm Won't Vanish Into Cisco

By David LaGesse

Posted: August 15, 2008

Cisco has bought Pure Networks, whose software I've recommended to friends, family, and even my bosses. Nothing's foolproof when computers are involved, but Network Magic usually makes it easier to get PCs talking to each other.

Cisco already plugs some of Network Magic's magic into its routers. In buying the whole company, Cisco says it's prepping for the home audio and video devices that will be connecting to each other and to the Internet, what Cisco calls "Home Networking 2.0."

In reading the press releases, I saw no indication if non-Cisco customers could still buy Network Magic. But a Cisco spokeswoman assures me that it will continue to sell the product as stand-alone software, while also bundled with Cisco/Linksys routers.

network magic

I think it's a dyin shame that cisco bought network magic now anyone who had the version that came with network everywhere cant use network magic at all anymore why should we pay for something we already had makws no sense to me big corparation jab thats all i can say

Don of WY @ Feb 26, 2009 20:22:43 PM

Lost its Magic at my house, too

My Network Magic quit working, and I can't figure out how to get it working again. I, too, paid for the lifetime upgrades and am not happy with the bait and switch by Cisco. I'd love to see some recommendations for good networking software that's made by the little guy!

Christa of GA @ Jan 29, 2009 17:22:51 PM

MY FRIEND NM JUST DIED

Thats what it feels like. 5.0 wouldnt install no matter what. Remember how easy all the other updates were. Theres no magic in ciscos version. Don't pay for it. Just let it go.

greg in nj of NJ @ Jan 10, 2009 18:06:03 PM

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Dave's Download

Our in-house gadget guru, Senior Writer David LaGesse, checks out the latest technologies and gizmos, from computer software to GPS systems -- and reports back to you in plain English.


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