Cisco’s State of Wireless 2026 report suggests that wireless infrastructure is becoming a critical driver of operational and financial performance, even as organizations struggle with rising complexity and security threats.
The report found that more than three-quarters of organizations are already seeing measurable benefits from wireless investments, including gains in operational efficiency (78 percent), employee productivity (75 percent) and customer engagement (75 percent). Nearly 7 in 10 respondents also reported positive revenue impacts, underscoring what the report describes as a “multiplier effect,” where a single network investment delivers value across multiple areas of the business.
This value is driving continued spending. Eight in 10 organizations increased wireless investments over the past five years, and 82 percent expect budgets to continue rising, with many anticipating significant increases in the next several years.
At the same time, the report shines light on a growing “wireless AI paradox.” While AI is a key driver of return on investment — helping automate operations and improve performance — it’s also contributing to new challenges. Respondents identified AI-generated cyberattacks as a leading security threat, while also pointing to increased operational complexity and a shortage of skilled talent as major barriers to success.
Nearly all organizations (98 percent) reported rising wireless complexity, fueled by expanding device ecosystems and IoT adoption. Meanwhile, 85 percent experienced at least one wireless security incident in the past year, with more than half reporting financial losses tied to those events.
Talent shortages are compounding these challenges. The report found that 86 percent of organizations struggle to hire qualified wireless professionals, as many workers shift toward AI and cybersecurity roles. This gap is contributing to higher security costs and limiting organizations’ ability to modernize their networks.
To address these issues, the report recommends a more holistic approach that includes upgrading to newer Wi-Fi standards, adopting AI-driven automation, strengthening wireless security and investing in workforce development. Organizations that take these steps are up to four times more likely to achieve strong returns on their wireless investments, according to the findings.
For facility managers, the findings reinforce the growing importance of reliable, secure wireless networks as a foundation for smart building systems, connected devices and AI-driven operations.
Jeff Wardon, Jr., is the assistant editor of the facilities market.
