Duo, a cloud-based secure access provider which is now a part of Cisco, announced that it has launched its first data center in Mumbai, India, to help its customers strengthen cyber defenses and meet data localization requirement.

“This is the latest in Cisco’s investments to build future-ready, data-compliant security infrastructure in India,” according to an official statement.

The statement, however, did not mention further specifics.

Duo mentioned the launch of data center in Mumbai is part of its global expansion strategy, adding that the data center will enable all functionality from Duo’s zero-trust platform including multi-factor authentication(MFA), single sign-on (SSO), VPN-less remote access, device trust, passwordless (in public preview), and adaptive risk-based policies.

“At Cisco, as we catalyze our transition to delivering a majority of our portfolio as a service, we are bringing Duo to more customers to help them not only prevent and respond to breaches but also be certain that their data is held securely within the region,” said Daisy Chittilapilly, President, Cisco India & SAARC.

A present Cisco survey found that 37% of cybersecurity technologies used by firms in India are considered outdated by their security leaders.

Recognizing the need to improve preparedness, nearly nine in 10 Indian companies surveyed are investing in a zero-trust strategy - including passwordless security - to permit better agility, visibility, and control, the survey found.

“The new data center doubles down on our continued commitment to India and will augment Cisco’s security capabilities to support the rising legion of hybrid businesses across the nation,” added Chittilapilly.