Cisco Systems is reportedly considering shedding its global workforce by nearly 20 percent with the lose of up to 14,000 jobs.

According to multiple rumours, it’s been claimed that the network kit giant is preparing to announce cuts to between 9,000 and 14,000 employees within the next few weeks, while early retirement packages are apparently already being offered to many staff.

It comes as Cisco is expected to report its fourth quarter financial results on Wednesday.