Cisco Systems Inc said on Wednesday it was buying Jasper Technologies Inc., a start-up that connects devices such as cars and medical devices to the Internet, for $1.4 billion in cash and equity awards, its largest acquisition since 2013.

Entertaining speakers? Check. Thought-provoking presentations? Check. Reliable Wi-Fi? Double check. On today's conference and trade show circuit, event organizers must build and manage massive, city-sized networks to support increasingly connected attendees. At the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) , connectivity is the linchpin of success.