Brocade Communications Systems (BRCD) 10-K 16 Dec 13 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Dec. 09, 2013	Apr. 27, 2013
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'BROCADE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS INC	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001009626	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--10-26	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Document Period End Date	26-Oct-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	443,956,034	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$2,627,640,721

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Inc

Consolidated Statements Of Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Net revenues	'	'	'
Product	$1,870,567	$1,890,856	$1,789,814
Service	352,297	346,914	357,628
Total net revenues	2,222,864	2,237,770	2,147,442
Cost of revenues	'	'	'
Product	658,362	689,856	677,196
Service	155,623	164,895	186,712
Total cost of revenues	813,985	854,751	863,908
Gross margin	1,408,879	1,383,019	1,283,534
Operating expenses:	'	'	'
Research and development	378,521	363,090	354,401
Sales and marketing	567,637	608,502	608,513
General and administrative	74,518	74,583	69,506
Amortization of intangible assets	54,256	59,204	60,713
Restructuring and other costs (recoveries)	25,464	-89	125
Loss on sale of subsidiary	0	0	12,756
Total operating expenses	1,100,396	1,105,290	1,106,014
Income from operations	308,483	277,729	177,520
Interest income	1,404	659	597
Other income (loss), net (Note 14)	75,835	-1,499	-851
Interest expense	-55,261	-52,488	-97,838
Income before income tax	330,461	224,401	79,428
Income tax expense	121,838	29,220	28,818
Net income	$208,623	$195,181	$50,610
Net income per-share—basic	$0.46	$0.43	$0.11
Net income per-share—diluted	$0.45	$0.41	$0.10
Shares used in per-share calculation—basic	450,516	456,629	474,259
Shares used in per-share calculation—diluted	463,705	472,343	497,030

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'
Net income	$208,623	$195,181	$50,610
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gains and losses	-1,748	-3,468	-1,831
Net gains and losses reclassified into earnings	-376	7,433	-6,444
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	-2,124	3,965	-8,275
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,456	-1,833	-894
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-3,580	2,132	-9,169
Total comprehensive income	$205,043	$197,313	$41,441

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$986,997	$713,226
Accounts receivable, net of allowances for doubtful accounts of $575 and $833 at October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, respectively	249,598	233,139
Inventories	45,344	68,179
Deferred tax assets	98,018	91,539
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	42,846	49,496
Total current assets	1,422,803	1,155,579
Property and equipment, net	472,940	518,940
Goodwill	1,645,437	1,624,089
Intangible assets, net	40,258	109,265
Non-current deferred tax assets	1,585	136,175
Other assets	38,368	37,213
Total assets	3,621,391	3,581,261
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	88,218	117,350
Accrued employee compensation	145,996	182,597
Deferred revenue	226,696	216,283
Current restructuring liabilities	16,418	976
Current portion of long-term debt	2,996	1,977
Other accrued liabilities	80,339	91,285
Total current liabilities	560,663	610,468
Long-term debt, net of current portion	596,208	599,203
Non-current restructuring liabilities	1,008	1,606
Non-current deferred revenue	76,426	76,907
Non-current income tax liability	38,680	55,387
Other non-current liabilities	1,593	1,870
Total liabilities	1,274,578	1,345,441
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)	'	'
Stockholders’ equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 800,000 shares authorized:	'	'
Issued and outstanding: 445,285 and 456,913 shares at October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, respectively	445	457
Additional paid-in capital	1,915,152	2,009,190
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-13,444	-9,864
Retained earnings	444,660	236,037
Total stockholders’ equity	2,346,813	2,235,820
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$3,621,391	$3,581,261

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Accounts receivable, allowances	$575	$833
Preferred stock, par value	$0.00	$0.00
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000	5,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, shares authorized	800,000	800,000
Common stock, shares issued	445,285	456,913
Common stock, shares outstanding	445,285	456,913

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$208,623	$195,181	$50,610
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	-3,189	-5,141	-312
Non-cash tax charges	78,206	0	0
Depreciation and amortization	184,114	192,218	206,352
Loss on disposal of property and equipment	6,709	883	2,325
Loss on sale of subsidiary	0	0	12,756
Amortization of debt issuance costs and original issue discount	1,214	7,788	13,183
Write-off of original issue discount and debt issuance costs related to lenders that did not participate in refinancing	5,360	0	25,465
Net gains on investments	0	-179	-340
Provision for doubtful accounts receivable and sales allowances	9,221	11,301	9,343
Non-cash compensation expense	73,618	77,169	83,076
Changes in assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Accounts receivable	-25,509	4,701	53,561
Inventories	24,173	4,656	1,327
Prepaid expenses and other assets	-66,001	3,987	-1,688
Deferred tax assets	4,825	1,256	-2,158
Accounts payable	-28,862	7,720	-38,917
Accrued employee compensation	-57,859	47,679	216
Deferred revenue	8,599	22,744	19,579
Other accrued liabilities	12,944	20,277	20,878
Restructuring liabilities	14,843	-1,370	-6,024
Net cash provided by operating activities	451,029	590,870	449,232
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Purchases of short-term investments	0	0	-38
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	0	952	1,604
Purchases of property and equipment	-52,371	-72,797	-96,797
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	-44,629	0	0
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	70,000	0	0
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	0	35	3,905
Net cash used in investing activities	-27,000	-71,810	-91,326
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	296,250	0	0
Proceeds from term loan	0	0	198,950
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	-300,000	0	0
Payment of principal related to the term loan	0	-190,000	-359,898
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	-992	0	0
Payment of fees related to the term loan	0	0	-1,167
Payment of principal related to capital leases	-1,627	-1,866	-1,761
Common stock repurchases	-240,000	-130,209	-210,698
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	93,771	98,791	97,152
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	3,189	5,141	312
Net cash used in financing activities	-149,409	-218,143	-277,110
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	'	'	'
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	-849	-1,893	-578
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	273,771	299,024	80,218
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	713,226	414,202	333,984
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	986,997	713,226	414,202
Cash paid for interest	'	'	'
Cash paid for interest	39,842	44,686	56,576
Cash paid for income taxes	'	'	'
Cash paid for income taxes	14,493	4,999	1,148
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing activities:	'	'	'
Note assumed on sale of subsidiary	0	0	1,218
Acquisition of property and equipment through capital leases	$1,312	$0	$0

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	Total Stockholders’ Equity
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance, Value at Oct. 30, 2010	'	$461	$2,047,525	($2,827)	($9,754)	$2,035,405
Balance, Shares at Oct. 30, 2010	'	461,291	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock, Value	'	35	70,119	'	'	70,154
Issuance of common stock, Shares	'	34,735	'	'	'	'
Common stock repurchases, Value	'	-48	-210,650	'	'	-210,698
Common stock repurchases, Shares	'	-48,004	'	'	'	'
Tax detriment from employee stock plans	-5,200	'	-5,240	'	'	-5,240
Stock-based compensation	'	'	83,076	'	'	83,076
Change in net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	-8,275	'	'	-8,275	'	-8,275
Change in cumulative translation adjustments	-894	'	'	-894	'	-894
Net income	50,610	'	'	'	50,610	50,610
Balance, Value at Oct. 29, 2011	'	448	1,984,830	-11,996	40,856	2,014,138
Balance, Shares at Oct. 29, 2011	'	448,022	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock, Value	'	33	82,138	'	'	82,171
Issuance of common stock, Shares	'	33,198	'	'	'	'
Common stock repurchases, Value	'	-24	-130,185	'	'	-130,209
Common stock repurchases, Shares	'	-24,307	'	'	'	'
Tax detriment from employee stock plans	-4,800	'	-4,762	'	'	-4,762
Stock-based compensation	'	'	77,169	'	'	77,169
Change in net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	3,965	'	'	3,965	'	3,965
Change in cumulative translation adjustments	-1,833	'	'	-1,833	'	-1,833
Net income	195,181	'	'	'	195,181	195,181
Balance, Value at Oct. 27, 2012	'	457	2,009,190	-9,864	236,037	2,235,820
Balance, Shares at Oct. 27, 2012	'	456,913	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock, Value	'	29	73,778	'	'	73,807
Issuance of common stock, Shares	'	29,556	'	'	'	'
Common stock repurchases, Value	'	-41	-239,959	'	'	-240,000
Common stock repurchases, Shares	'	-41,184	'	'	'	'
Tax detriment from employee stock plans	-1,500	'	-1,475	'	'	-1,475
Stock-based compensation	'	'	73,618	'	'	73,618
Change in net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	-2,124	'	'	-2,124	'	-2,124
Change in cumulative translation adjustments	-1,456	'	'	-1,456	'	-1,456
Net income	208,623	'	'	'	208,623	208,623
Balance, Value at Oct. 26, 2013	'	$445	$1,915,152	($13,444)	$444,660	$2,346,813
Balance, Shares at Oct. 26, 2013	'	445,285	'	'	'	'

Basis_Of_Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis Of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	Brocade Communications Systems, Inc. (“Brocade” or the “Company”) is a leading supplier of networking equipment, including Internet Protocol (“IP”) based networking solutions and Storage Area Networking (“SAN”) solutions for businesses and organizations of many types and sizes, including global enterprises, and service providers such as telecommunication firms, cable operators and mobile carriers. Brocade’s products, services and solutions simplify information technology (“IT”) infrastructure, increase resource utilization, ensure availability of mission critical applications, and support key IT services including Internet connectivity, enterprise mobility, virtualization, and cloud computing.
	The fiscal year for the Company is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the last Saturday in October. As is customary for companies that use the 52/53-week convention, every fifth year contains a 53-week year. Fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011 were 52-week fiscal years. The Company’s next 53-week fiscal year will be fiscal year 2014 and its next 14-week quarter will be in the second quarter of fiscal year 2014.
	The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Brocade and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Use of Estimates in Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, sales allowances and programs, allowance for doubtful accounts, stock-based compensation, purchase price allocations, warranty obligations, inventory valuation and purchase commitments, restructuring costs, commissions, facilities lease losses, impairment of goodwill and intangible assets, litigation, income taxes, and investments. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.

Summary_Of_Significant_Account

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.
	Investments and Equity Securities
	Investment securities with an original maturity of more than three months that mature less than one year from the Consolidated Balance Sheet date are considered short-term investments. Investment securities with an original or remaining maturity of one year or more and which the Company has the ability and intent to hold are considered long-term investments. Investments are classified as available-for-sale and are recorded on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.
	Unrealized holding gains and losses related to the Company’s investments are included as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive loss on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of any related tax effect. Realized gains and losses are calculated based on the specific identification method and are included in “Other expense, net” on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
	The Company recognizes an impairment charge when the fair values of its investments have fallen below their cost basis and the decline in fair value is assessed to be other-than-temporary. An other-than-temporary impairment is triggered when there is an intent to sell the security, and it is more likely than not that the security will be required to be sold before recovery, or the Company is not expected to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. The Company also considers various factors in determining whether to recognize an impairment charge, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than the cost basis and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. For impairments involving credit losses, the Company recognizes the credit loss component in earnings and the remainder of the impairment is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss.
	From time to time the Company makes equity investments in non-publicly traded companies. These investments are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and are generally accounted for under the cost method as the Company does not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the respective issuer’s operating and financial policies, nor does it have a liquidation preference that is substantive. The Company monitors its investments in non-publicly traded companies for impairment on a quarterly basis and makes appropriate reductions in carrying values when such impairments are determined to be other-than-temporary. Impairment charges are included in “Other expense, net” on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Factors considered in determining an impairment include, but are not limited to, the current business environment including competition and uncertainty of financial condition, going concern considerations such as the rate at which the issuer company utilizes cash and the issuer company’s ability to obtain additional private financing to fulfill its stated business plan, the need for changes to the issuer company’s existing business model due to changing business environments and its ability to successfully implement necessary changes, and comparable valuations. The carrying value of the Company’s equity investments in non-publicly traded companies at October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, was $7.7 million and $7.0 million, respectively.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	The fair value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities, approximate cost because of their short maturities. The fair value of the Company’s investments is primarily determined using quoted market prices for those securities or similar financial instruments.
	Derivative Financial Instruments
	In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates and the exchange rates associated with foreign currencies. The derivatives entered into by the Company qualify for and are designated as foreign currency cash flow hedges.
	The derivatives are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at their respective fair values. Changes in fair values of outstanding cash flow hedges that are highly effective are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss until earnings are affected by the variability of cash flows of the underlying hedged transaction. In most cases, amounts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss will be released to earnings at maturity of the related derivative. The recognition of effective hedge results offsets the gains or losses on the underlying exposure. Cash flows from derivative transactions are classified according to the nature of the risk being hedged.
	The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions. This documentation includes linking all derivatives either to specific assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets or specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis whether the derivatives used in hedging transactions have been highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items and whether those derivatives may be expected to remain highly effective in future periods.
	The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when (i) the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of a hedged item (including hedged items such as firm commitments or forecasted transactions); (ii) the derivative expires or is sold, terminated or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) management determines that designating the derivative as a hedging instrument is no longer appropriate.
	When the Company discontinues hedge accounting, but it continues to be probable that the forecasted transaction will occur in the originally expected period, the gain or loss on the derivative remains in accumulated other comprehensive loss and is reclassified into earnings when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. However, if it is no longer probable that a forecasted transaction will occur by the end of the originally specified time period or within an additional two-month period of time thereafter, the gain or loss that was in accumulated other comprehensive loss will be recognized immediately in earnings. In all situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued and the derivative remains outstanding, the Company will carry the derivative at its fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet until maturity and will recognize future changes in the fair value in current period earnings. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current period earnings within “Other income (loss), net.” Effectiveness is assessed based on the comparison of current forward rates to the rates established on the Company’s hedges.
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventory costs include material, labor and overhead. The Company records inventory write-downs based on excess and obsolete inventory determined primarily by its forecast of future demand. A majority of the Company’s inventory is located off-site at customers’ hubs, third-party managed service depots and at contract manufacturers’ locations. Cash flows related to the sale of inventories are classified as cash flows from operating activities.
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. An estimated useful life of three years is used for computer equipment and four to seven years is used for software based on the nature of the software purchased. Estimated useful lives of up to four years are used for engineering and other equipment, seven years is used for furniture and an estimated useful life of thirty-nine years is used for buildings. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of ten years or the remaining term of the lease.
	Interest costs related to major construction projects are capitalized until the asset is ready for service. Capitalized interest is calculated by multiplying the weighted-average interest rate on the Company’s long-term debt by the qualifying construction costs. Interest capitalized may not exceed gross interest expense for the period. As the qualifying asset is moved to the depreciation and amortization pool, the related capitalized interest is also transferred and is amortized over the useful life of the related asset. No interest costs were capitalized during the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, since the construction of the Company’s campus project was completed in the third quarter of fiscal year 2010.
	Brocade evaluates long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 360-10 Property, Plant and Equipment. Brocade assesses the fair value of the assets based on the undiscounted future cash flow the assets are expected to generate and recognizes an impairment loss when estimated undiscounted future cash flow expected to result from the use of the asset plus net proceeds expected to result from the disposition of the asset, if any, are less than the carrying value of the asset. When Brocade identifies an impairment, Brocade reduces the carrying amount of the asset to its estimated fair value based on a discounted cash flow approach or, when available and appropriate, to comparable market values.
	Goodwill, Other Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets and Long-lived Intangible Assets
	Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are generated as a result of business combinations. Our indefinite-lived assets are comprised of acquired in-process research and development (“IPRD”) and goodwill. IPRD is an intangible asset accounted as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort.
	During the development period, the Company conducts an IPRD impairment test annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired. Events which might indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, adverse cost factors, deteriorating financial performance, strategic decisions made in response to economic and competitive conditions, the impact of the economic environment on us and our customer base, and/or other relevant events such as changes in management, key personnel, litigations, or customers.
	The Company evaluates goodwill on an annual basis during its second fiscal quarter or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the asset’s implied fair value. Events which might indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, strategic decisions made in response to economic and competitive conditions, the impact of the economic environment on the Company’s customer base, material negative changes in relationships with significant customers, and/or a significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period.
	Long-lived intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is recognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the respective asset. The Company evaluates intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. Examples of such events or circumstances include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, significant changes in the manner of use of acquired assets or the strategy for the Company’s business, significant negative industry or economic trends, and/or a significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period. Impairment is recognized based on the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying value. For additional discussion, see Note 4, “Goodwill and Intangible Assets,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Litigation Costs
	The Company is subject to the possibility of legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company regularly monitors the status of pending legal actions to evaluate both the magnitude and likelihood of any potential losses. An accrual for these potential losses is made when they are probable and the amount of loss, or possible range of loss, can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs related to such potential losses are expensed as incurred. In addition, recoveries are shown as a reduction in litigation costs in the period in which they are realized.
	Concentrations
	Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, and accounts receivable. Cash and cash equivalents are primarily maintained at seven major financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may be redeemed upon demand and may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits.
	A majority of the Company’s accounts receivable balance is derived from sales to original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) partners in the computer storage and server industry. As of October 26, 2013, four customers individually accounted for 18%, 12%, 11% and 11% of total accounts receivable, for a combined total of 52% of total accounts receivable. As of October 27, 2012, three customers individually accounted for 16%, 12% and 10%, of total accounts receivable, for a combined total of 38% of total accounts receivable. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally does not require collateral on accounts receivable balances. The Company has established reserves for credit losses, sales allowances, and other allowances.
	For the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012 and October 29, 2011, the same three customers accounted for a combined total of 46% (EMC Corporation (“EMC”) with 18%, Hewlett-Packard Company (“HP”) with 12%, and International Business Machines Corporation (“IBM”) with 16%), 47% (EMC with 16%, HP with 13%, and IBM with 18%) and 43% (EMC with 15%, HP with 13%, and IBM with 15%) of total net revenues, respectively.
	The Company currently relies on single and limited sources for multiple key components used in the manufacture of its products. Additionally, the Company relies on multiple contract manufacturers for the production of its products, including Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., Accton Wireless Broadband Corporation, Motorola, Inc. and Quanta Computer Incorporated (collectively, the contract manufacturers or “CMs”). Although the Company uses standard parts and components for its products where possible, the Company’s CMs currently purchase, on their behalf, several key components used in the manufacture of products from single or limited supplier sources.
	Revenue Recognition
	Product revenue. Substantially all of the Company’s products are integrated with software that is essential to the functionality of the equipment. Additionally, the Company provides unspecified software upgrades and enhancements related to the equipment through its maintenance contracts for most of its products. Product revenue is generally recognized when all of the following criteria have been met:
	•	Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;
	•	Delivery has occurred;
	•	The fee is fixed or determinable; and
	•	Collectability is reasonably assured.
	For newly introduced products, many of the Company’s large OEM customers require a product qualification period during which the Company’s products are tested and approved by the OEM customers for sale to their customers. Revenue recognition and related cost are deferred for shipments to new OEM customers and for shipments of newly introduced products to existing OEM customers until satisfactory evidence of completion of the product qualification has been received from the OEM customer. In addition, revenue from sales to the Company’s distributor customers is recognized in the same period in which the product is actually sold by the distributor (sell-through).
	The Company reduces revenue for estimated sales allowances at the time of shipment and sales programs at the later of revenue recognition or communication of the commitment for sales incentives. Sales allowances are estimated based on historical sales returns. Sales programs are estimated based on approved sales programs versus claims under such sales programs, current trends and the Company’s expectations regarding future activity. In addition, the Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts, which is also accounted for as a reduction in revenue. The Company establishes the allowance for doubtful accounts to ensure accounts receivable are not overstated due to uncollectibility. The Company maintains bad debt reserves based upon the analysis of accounts receivable, historical collection patterns, customer concentrations, customer creditworthiness, current economic trends, changes in customer payment terms and practices, and customer communication. The Company records a specific reserve for individual accounts when it becomes aware of a customer’s likely inability to meet its financial obligations, such as in the case of bankruptcy filings or deterioration in the customer’s operating results or financial position. If circumstances related to customers change, the Company would further adjust estimates of the recoverability of receivables.
	Multiple-element arrangements. The Company’s multiple-element product offerings include networking hardware with embedded software products and support, which are considered separate units of accounting. For certain of the Company’s products, software and non-software components function together to deliver the tangible products’ essential functionality.
	The Company allocates revenue to each element in a multiple-element arrangement based upon their relative selling price. When applying the relative selling price method, the Company determines the selling price for each deliverable using vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of selling price, if it exists, or third-party evidence (“TPE”) of selling price. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exist for a deliverable, the Company uses its best estimate of selling price for that deliverable. Revenue allocated to each element is then recognized when the basic revenue recognition criteria are met for each element.
	The Company determines VSOE based on its normal pricing and discounting practices for the specific product or service when sold separately. In determining VSOE, the Company requires that a substantial majority of the selling prices for a product or service fall within a reasonably narrow pricing range. For post-contract customer support (“PCS”), the Company considers stated renewal rates in determining VSOE.
	In most instances, the Company is not able to establish VSOE for all deliverables in an arrangement with multiple elements. This may be due to the Company infrequently selling each element separately, not pricing products within a narrow range, or only having a limited sales history. When VSOE cannot be established, the Company attempts to establish the selling price for each element based on TPE. TPE is determined based on competitor prices for similar deliverables when sold separately. Generally, the Company’s go-to-market strategy differs from that of its peers and its offerings contain a significant level of customization and differentiation such that the comparable pricing of products with similar functionality cannot be obtained. Furthermore, the Company is unable to reliably determine what similar competitor products’ selling prices are on a stand-alone basis. Therefore, the Company is typically unable to determine TPE.
	When the Company is unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, the Company uses estimated selling price (“ESP”) in its allocation of the arrangement consideration. The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which the Company would transact a sale if the product or service were sold on a stand-alone basis. ESP is generally used for offerings that are not typically sold on a stand-alone basis or for new or highly customized offerings.
	The Company determines ESP for a product by considering multiple factors including, but not limited to, geographies, market conditions, competitive landscape, internal costs, gross margin objectives and pricing practices. The determination of ESP is made through consultation with and formal approval by the Company’s management, taking into consideration the go-to-market strategy.
	The Company regularly reviews VSOE, TPE and ESP and maintains internal controls over the establishment and updates of these estimates. There was no material impact on revenues during the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 nor does the Company expect a material impact in the near term from changes in VSOE, TPE or ESP.
	Services revenue. Services revenue consists of training and maintenance arrangements, including PCS and other professional services. PCS services are offered under renewable, annual fee-based contracts or as part of multiple-element arrangements, and typically include telephone support and upgrades and enhancements to the Company’s operating system software. Revenue related to PCS elements is deferred and recognized ratably over the contractual period. PCS contracts are typically one to three years in length.
	Professional services are offered under hourly or fixed fee-based contracts. Professional services revenue is recognized as services are performed. Training revenue is recognized upon completion of the training.
	Warranty Expense
	The Company provides standard warranties on its products ranging from one year to limited lifetime warranties. Estimated future warranty costs are accrued at the time of shipment and charged to cost of revenues based upon historical experience, current trends and the Company’s expectations regarding future experience.
	Foreign Currency
	Assets and liabilities of the Company’s international subsidiaries in which the local currency is the functional currency are translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates. Income and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets in the stockholders’ equity section as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Foreign exchange gains and losses for assets and liabilities of the Company’s international subsidiaries in which the functional currency is the U.S. dollar are recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Income.
	Capitalized Software Development Costs
	Eligible software development costs are capitalized upon the establishment of technological feasibility, which is defined as being equivalent to completion of a beta-phase working prototype. Total eligible software development costs have not been material to date.
	Costs related to internally developed software and software purchased for internal use, primarily for implementation and upgrade of the Company’s enterprise-wide integrated business information system, are capitalized and included in “Property and equipment, net.” These costs are being depreciated over the estimated useful lives of four to seven years based on the nature of the software purchased.
	Advertising Costs
	The Company expenses all advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs were $15.3 million, $17.7 million and $12.1 million for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively.
	During the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012, the Company entered into a multi-year arrangement which includes exchanging certain of the Company’s products and services, with the estimated overall fair value of $16.6 million, for advertising services. The Company is accounting for this transaction based on fair values of products and services surrendered and recognized $7.1 million and $0.3 million of gross operating revenue in the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, respectively. As the advertising has not yet been received, the corresponding $7.4 million advertising prepayment is currently recorded within “Other assets”.
	Income Taxes
	The Company recognizes income tax expense for the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts, along with net operating loss carryforwards and credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is recognized to the extent that it is more likely than not that the tax benefits will not be realized.
The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes using a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. The Company classifies the liability for unrecognized tax benefits as current to the extent that the Company anticipates payment (or receipt) of cash within one year. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized in the provision for income taxes. For additional discussion, see Note 15, “Income Taxes,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Computation of Net Income per Share
Basic net income per-share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, less shares subject to repurchase. Diluted net income per-share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the period that have a dilutive effect on earnings per-share. Potentially dilutive common shares result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options, assumed vesting of outstanding restricted stock units and awards and assumed issuance of stock under the employee stock purchase plan, all using the treasury stock method.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for employee equity awards under the fair value method. Accordingly, the Company measures stock-based compensation at the grant date based on the fair value of the award. The fair values of stock options and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) are estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Estimated compensation cost relating to restricted stock units is based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of the grant. The Company records stock-based compensation expense over the twenty-four month offering period in connection with shares issued under its ESPP. The compensation expense for stock-based awards is reduced by an estimate for forfeitures and is recognized over the vesting period of the award under a graded vesting method, except for restricted stock units granted by the Company, which are recognized over the expected term of the award under a straight-line vesting method. For additional discussion, see Note 12, “Stock-Based Compensation,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Company accounts for the tax effects of share-based payment awards using the alternative transition method, which includes simplified methods to establish the beginning balance of the additional paid-in capital pool (“APIC Pool”) related to the tax effects of employee stock-based compensation and to determine the subsequent impact on the APIC Pool and consolidated statement of cash flows of the tax effects of employee stock-based compensation awards.
New Accounting Pronouncements or Updates Recently Adopted
In June 2011 and December 2011, the FASB issued updates to ASC 220 Comprehensive Income (“ASC 220”): Presentation of Comprehensive Income. The amendments from these updates increase the prominence of items reported in other comprehensive income and eliminate the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of equity. The Company adopted these updates in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, presenting the required information in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements or Updates That Are Not Yet Effective
In February 2013, the FASB issued an update to ASC 220: Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. Under this update, an entity is required to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified in its entirety in the same reporting period. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. This update to ASC 220 should be applied prospectively and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014. The adoption of this update to ASC 220 will not have an impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The Company will include additional information required by this update prospectively starting from the first quarter of fiscal year 2014.
In March 2013, the FASB issued an update to ASC 830 Foreign Currency Matters (“ASC 830”): Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity. Under this update, an entity is required to release any cumulative translation adjustment into net income when an entity ceases to have a controlling financial interest resulting in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity. This update to ASC 830 should be applied prospectively and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. The Company does not expect the adoption of this update to ASC 830 to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
In July 2013, the FASB issued an update to ASC 740 Income Taxes (“ASC 740”): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. Under this update, an entity is required to present an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion thereof, as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except to the extent that these instances are not available at the reporting date. This update to ASC 740 should be applied prospectively and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. The Company does not expect the adoption of this update to ASC 740 to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions	'
	Acquisition
	On November 9, 2012, the Company completed its acquisition of Vyatta, Inc. (“Vyatta”), a privately held developer of a software-based network operating system suite headquartered in Belmont, California. Vyatta became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company as a result of the acquisition. The Vyatta operating system suite is deployed on conventional computer hardware platforms for multiple applications in network virtualization, software-defined networking (“SDN”) and private/public cloud computing platforms. This acquisition complements Brocade’s investments in SDN, Ethernet switches and routers and enables Brocade to pursue new market opportunities in data center virtualization, public cloud, enterprise virtual private cloud and managed services.
	The results of operations of Vyatta are included in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Income from the date of the acquisition. The Company does not consider the acquisition of Vyatta to be material to its results of operations or financial position, and therefore, Brocade is not presenting pro-forma financial information of combined operations.
	The total purchase price was $44.8 million, consisting of $43.6 million cash consideration and $1.2 million related to prepaid license fees paid by the Company to Vyatta that was effectively settled at the recorded amount as a result of the acquisition. Of the cash consideration, $7.0 million will be held in escrow for a period of eighteen months from the closing of the acquisition and will be released subject to resolution of certain contingencies. In addition, the Company paid direct acquisition costs of $0.4 million.
	In connection with this acquisition, the Company allocated the total purchase consideration to the net assets and liabilities acquired, including identifiable intangible assets, based on their respective fair values at the acquisition date. The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired (in thousands):
	Assets acquired:
	Cash	$	140
	Accounts receivable	511
	Identifiable intangible assets:
	In-process technology	21,590
	Customer relationships	1,080
	Core/developed technology	1,040
	Non-compete agreements	810
	Trade name	460
	Total identifiable intangible assets	24,980
	Goodwill (1)	25,681
	Other assets	1,017
	Total assets acquired	52,329
	Liabilities assumed:
	Deferred tax liability	3,475
	Deferred revenue	1,354
	Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities	2,731
	Total liabilities assumed	7,560
	Net assets acquired	$	44,769
	(1)	None of the goodwill recognized is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets

Goodwill And Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill And Intangible Assets	'
	Goodwill and Intangible Assets
	The following table presents a summary of the net carrying value of the Company’s intangible assets (in thousands):
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
	Goodwill	$	1,645,437		$	1,624,089
	In-process research and development (1)	21,590			—
	Finite-lived intangible assets:
	Total intangible assets subject to amortization	18,668			109,265
	Total intangible assets	$	1,685,695		$	1,733,354
	-1	Acquired in-process research and development (“IPRD”) is an intangible asset accounted for as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort. While accounted as an indefinite-lived asset, the IPRD intangible asset is subject to testing for impairment annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired. If the research and development effort associated with the IPRD is successfully completed, then the IPRD intangible asset will be amortized over its estimated useful life to be determined at the date the effort is completed. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the IPRD intangible asset was not amortized due to the current stage of the associated research and development effort, which is expected to be completed in fiscal year 2014.
	The Company performed its annual development period’s IPRD impairment test using measurement data as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter of 2013. During the test, the Company exercised the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of its IPRD asset is less than its carrying amount. After assessing the totality of events and circumstances, the Company determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of its IPRD assets is less than its carrying amount and no further testing is required. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, there were no events or changes in facts and circumstances that indicated that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired.
	The following table summarizes goodwill activity by reportable segment during the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013 and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		SAN			IP Networking			Global		Total
		Products			Products			Services
	Balance at October 29, 2011
	Goodwill	$	176,968		$	1,344,415		$	155,416	$	1,676,799
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(45,832		)	—		(45,832		)
		176,968			1,298,583			155,416		1,630,967
	Tax and other adjustments (1)	(12		)	(6,866		)	—		(6,878		)
	Balance at October 27, 2012
	Goodwill	176,956			1,337,549			155,416		1,669,921
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(45,832		)	—		(45,832		)
		176,956			1,291,717			155,416		1,624,089
	Acquisition	—			25,681			—		25,681
	Tax and other adjustments (1)	(78		)	(4,255		)	—		(4,333		)
	Balance at October 26, 2013
	Goodwill	176,878			1,358,975			155,416		1,691,269
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(45,832		)	—		(45,832		)
		$	176,878		$	1,313,143		$	155,416	$	1,645,437
	(1)	The goodwill adjustments were primarily a result of tax benefits from the exercise of stock awards of acquired companies.
	The Company conducts its goodwill impairment test annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount. For the annual goodwill impairment test, the Company uses the income approach, the market approach, or a combination thereof, to determine each reporting unit’s fair value. The income approach provides an estimate of fair value based on discounted expected future cash flows (“DCF”). The market approach provides an estimate of fair value using various prices or market multiples applied to the reporting unit’s operating results and then applying an appropriate control premium. For the fiscal year 2013 annual goodwill impairment test, the Company used a combination of approaches to estimate each reporting unit’s fair value. The Company believed that at the time of impairment testing performed in the second fiscal quarter of 2013, the income approach and the market approach were equally representative of a reporting unit’s fair value.
	Determining the fair value of a reporting unit or an intangible asset requires judgment and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. The Company based its fair value estimates on assumptions it believes to be reasonable, but inherently uncertain. Estimates and assumptions with respect to the determination of the fair value of its reporting units using the income approach include, among other inputs:
	•	The Company’s operating forecasts;
	•	Revenue growth rates; and
	•	Risk-commensurate discount rates and costs of capital.
	The Company’s estimates of revenues and costs are based on historical data, various internal estimates and a variety of external sources, and are developed as part of our regular long-range planning process. The control premium used in market or combined approaches is determined by considering control premiums offered as part of the acquisitions that have occurred in the reporting units’ comparable market segments. Based on the results of the annual goodwill impairment analysis performed during the second fiscal quarter of 2013, the Company determined that no impairment needed to be recorded. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, there were no facts and circumstances that indicated that the fair value of the reporting units may be less than their current carrying amount.
	Intangible assets other than goodwill are amortized on a straight-line basis over the following estimated remaining useful lives, unless the Company has determined these lives to be indefinite. The following tables present details of the Company’s finite-lived intangible assets (in thousands, except for weighted-average remaining useful life):
		Gross			Accumulated			Net		Weighted-
		Carrying			Amortization			Carrying		Average
		Value						Value		Remaining
										Useful Life
										(in years)
	October 26, 2013
	Trade name	$	460		$	110		$	350	3.01
	Core/developed technology	192,340			185,254			7,086		0.35
	Customer relationships	287,090			276,473			10,617		0.51
	Non-compete agreements	810			195			615		3.01
	Total finite-lived intangible assets (1)	$	480,700		$	462,032		$	18,668	0.58
		Gross			Accumulated			Net		Weighted-
		Carrying			Amortization			Carrying		Average
		Value						Value		Remaining
										Useful Life
										(in years)
	October 27, 2012
	Trade name	$	100		$	97		$	3	0.17
	Core/developed technology	218,845			173,070			45,775		1.14
	Customer relationships	327,765			264,278			63,487		1.16
	Total finite-lived intangible assets	$	546,710		$	437,445		$	109,265	1.16
	(1)	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, $69.4 million of finite-lived intangible assets became fully amortized and, therefore, were removed from the balance sheet.
	The following table presents the amortization of finite-lived intangible assets included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
2013			2012			2011
Cost of revenues	$	39,731		$	46,229		$	57,489
Operating expenses	54,256			59,204			60,713
Total	$	93,987		$	105,433		$	118,202
The following table presents the estimated future amortization of finite-lived intangible assets as of October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
Fiscal Year	Estimated
	Future
	Amortization
2014	$	16,994
2015	865
2016	553
2017	238
2018	18
Total	$	18,668

Restructuring_And_Other_Charge

Restructuring And Other Charges	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Restructuring and Other Chargers	'
	Restructuring and Other Charges
	The following table provides details of the Company’s restructuring and other charges (in thousands):
		Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan									Prior Restructuring Plans
		Severance			Contract Terminations			Lease Loss			Lease Loss			Total
		and Benefits			and Other			Reserve and Related Costs			Reserve and Related Costs
	Restructuring liabilities at October 29, 2011	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	3,952		$	3,952
	Cash payments	—			—			—			(1,334		)	(1,334		)
	Other adjustments, net	—			—			—			(36		)	(36		)
	Restructuring liabilities at October 27, 2012	—			—			—			2,582			2,582
	Restructuring and other charges	20,413			3,981			1,070			—			25,464
	Cash payments	(5,197		)	(3,565		)	(1		)	(788		)	(9,551		)
	Non-cash charges	—			—			(1,069		)	—			(1,069		)
	Restructuring liabilities at October 26, 2013	$	15,216		$	416		$	—		$	1,794		$	17,426
	Current restructuring liabilities at October 26, 2013	$	15,216		$	416		$	—		$	786		$	16,418
	Non-current restructuring liabilities at October 26, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1,008		$	1,008
	Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan
	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company reevaluated its business model to restructure certain business operations, reorganize certain business units within the Company, and reduce the Company’s operating expense structure. The restructuring plan was approved by the Company’s management and communicated to the Company’s employees in September 2013. The plan included a workforce reduction of approximately 250 employees, primarily in the engineering, sales, and marketing organizations, as well as the cancellation of certain non-recurring engineering agreements and exit from certain leased facilities.
	In connection with the plan, the Company incurred aggregate charges of $25.5 million as of October 26, 2013, primarily related to severance and benefits charges. We expect to incur total charges of approximately $35.0 million, with future costs primarily related to lease loss reserve and related costs, by the expected completion of the plan by the end of the first quarter of 2014.
	Severance and benefits charges incurred during the quarter ended October 26, 2013, consisted of severance and related employee termination costs, including salary and other compensation payments to the employees during their post-notification retention period, as well as outplacement services, associated with the reduction of the Company’s workforce. The post-notification retention period for the employees terminated under the plan did not exceed the legal notification period, or in the absence of a legal notification requirement, 60 days. Contract terminations and other charges were primarily related to the cancellation of certain contracts in connection with the restructuring of certain business functions. Lease loss reserve and related costs were primarily related to the loss on cancellation of the right of first offer to purchase an unimproved parcel.
	The Company reevaluates its estimates and assumptions on a quarterly basis and makes adjustments to the restructuring liabilities balance if necessary. No material changes in estimates were made to the fiscal 2013 fourth quarter restructuring plan accrual. The Company expects to pay or otherwise substantially settle the remaining accrued liabilities during the next fiscal year.
	The above restructuring and other related charges are included in “Restructuring and other costs (recoveries)” on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
	Prior Restructuring Plans
	During the fiscal years prior to fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded charges related to estimated facilities lease losses, net of expected sublease income, due to consolidation of real estate space as a result of acquisitions.
	Cash payments for facilities that are part of the Company’s lease loss reserve are expected to be paid over the respective lease terms through fiscal year 2017.

Balance_Sheet_Details

Balance Sheet Details	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Balance Sheet Details [Abstract]	'
Balance Sheet Details	'
	Balance Sheet Details
	The following tables provide details of selected balance sheet items (in thousands):
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Accounts receivable:
	Accounts receivable	$	257,494		$	243,731
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	(575		)	(833		)
	Sales allowances	(7,321		)	(9,759		)
	Total	$	249,598		$	233,139
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Inventories:
	Raw materials	$	14,048		$	24,240
	Finished goods	31,296			43,939
	Total	$	45,344		$	68,179
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Property and equipment, net:
	Computer equipment	$	16,006		$	17,953
	Software	57,186			39,410
	Engineering and other equipment (1)	416,573			409,524
	Furniture and fixtures (1)	29,029			30,516
	Leasehold improvements	24,287			26,306
	Land and building	384,654			384,666
	Subtotal	927,735			908,375
	Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization (1), (2)	(454,795		)	(389,435		)
	Total	$	472,940		$	518,940
	(1)	Engineering and other equipment, furniture and fixtures and accumulated depreciation and amortization include the following amounts under capital leases as of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Cost	$	11,925		$	10,613
	Accumulated depreciation	(5,366		)	(3,647		)
	Total	$	6,559		$	6,966
	(2)	The following table presents the depreciation of property and equipment included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation expense	$	90,127		$	86,785		$	88,150
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Other accrued liabilities:
	Income taxes payable	$	11,081		$	15,079
	Accrued warranty	8,632			14,453
	Inventory purchase commitments	4,436			4,271
	Accrued sales programs	25,752			24,801
	Accrued interest	10,056			12,011
	Others	20,382			20,670
	Total	$	80,339		$	91,285

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Fair Value Measurements
	Fair value is the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In determining fair value for assets and liabilities required or permitted to be recorded at fair value, the Company considers the principal or most advantageous market in which it would transact and also considers assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability. The Company applies fair value measurements for both financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities. The Company has no nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2013.
	The fair value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, restricted cash, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, approximate cost because of their short maturities.
	The Company did not elect to measure any eligible financial instruments at fair value and report unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected in earnings at each subsequent reporting date.
	Fair Value Hierarchy
	The Company utilizes a fair value hierarchy that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
	Level 1
	Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Brocade’s assets utilizing Level 1 inputs include money market funds.
	Level 2
	Inputs that reflect quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in less active markets, or model-derived valuations in which significant inputs are observable or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. Brocade’s assets and liabilities utilizing Level 2 inputs include derivative instruments.
	Level 3
	Unobservable inputs that reflect the Company’s own assumptions incorporated in valuation techniques used to determine fair value. These assumptions are required to be consistent with market participant assumptions that are reasonably available. Brocade has no assets or liabilities utilizing Level 3 inputs.
	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
				Fair Value Measurements Using
		Balance as of October 26, 2013		Quoted Prices in		Significant  Other		Significant
				Active Markets		Observable		Unobservable
				For Identical		Inputs		Inputs
				Instruments		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
				(Level 1)
	Assets:
	Money market funds (1)	$	431,750	$	431,750	$	—	$	—
	Derivative assets	1,814		—		1,814		—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	433,564	$	431,750	$	1,814	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Derivative liabilities	$	1,441	$	—	$	1,441	$	—
	Total liabilities measured at fair value	$	1,441	$	—	$	1,441	$	—
	(1)	Money market funds are reported within “Cash and cash equivalents” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 27, 2012 were as follows (in thousands):
				Fair Value Measurements Using
		Balance as of October 27, 2012		Quoted Prices in		Significant  Other		Significant
				Active Markets		Observable		Unobservable
				For Identical		Inputs		Inputs
				Instruments		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
				(Level 1)
	Assets:
	Money market funds (1)	$	308,960	$	308,960	$	—	$	—
	Derivative assets	$	2,941	$	—	$	2,941	$	—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	311,901	$	308,960	$	2,941	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Derivative liabilities	$	296	$	—	$	296	$	—
	Total liabilities measured at fair value	$	296	$	—	$	296	$	—
	(1)	Money market funds are reported within “Cash and cash equivalents” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	The Company uses a midpoint of the highest bid and lowest offering obtained from market makers to value its corporate bonds. The Company uses observable market prices for comparable instruments to value its derivative instruments.
	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company had no transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy of its assets measured at fair value.

Borrowings

Borrowings	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Borrowings	'
	Borrowings
	The following table provides details of the Company’s long-term debt (in thousands, except years and percentages):
					26-Oct-13				27-Oct-12
			Maturity	Stated Annual Interest Rate	Amount		Effective Interest Rate		Amount		Effective Interest Rate
	Senior Secured Notes:
	2018 Notes		2013	6.63%	$	—	—	%	$	300,000	7.05	%
	2020 Notes		2020	6.88%	300,000		7.26	%	300,000		7.26	%
	Senior Unsecured Notes:
	2023 Notes		2023	4.63%	300,000		4.83	%	—		—	%
	Capital lease obligations		2016	5.67%	4,600		5.5	%	4,916		5.8	%
	Total long-term debt				604,600				604,916
	Less:
	Unamortized discount				5,396				3,736
	Current portion of long-term debt				2,996				1,977
	Total long-term debt, net of current portion				$	596,208			$	599,203
	Senior Unsecured Notes
	In January 2013, the Company issued 4.625% senior unsecured notes in the aggregate principal amount of $300.0 million due 2023 (the “2023 Notes”) pursuant to an Indenture, dated as of January 22, 2013 (the “2023 Indenture”), between the Company, certain domestic subsidiaries of the Company that have guaranteed the Company’s obligations under the 2023 Notes (as described in Note 18, “Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”) and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as the trustee. The Company irrevocably deposited the net proceeds from this offering, together with cash on hand, with the trustee to redeem all of the Company’s outstanding 6.625% senior secured notes due 2018 (the “2018 Notes”) as described below under “Senior Secured Notes.”
	The 2023 Notes bear interest payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. No payments were made toward the principal of the 2023 Notes during the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013.
	As of October 26, 2013, the fair value of the Company’s 2023 Notes was approximately $281.1 million, estimated based on broker trading prices.
	On or after January 15, 2018, the Company may redeem all or part of the 2023 Notes at the redemption prices set forth in the 2023 Indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to the redemption date. At any time prior to January 15, 2018, the Company may redeem all or a part of the 2023 Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2023 Notes, plus an applicable premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to the redemption date. In addition, at any time prior to January 15, 2016, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the principal amount of the 2023 Notes, using the net cash proceeds of one or more sales of the Company’s capital stock at a redemption price equal to 104.625% of the principal amount of the 2023 Notes redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to the redemption date.
	If the Company experiences a specified change of control triggering event, it must offer to repurchase the 2023 Notes at a repurchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the 2023 Notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, up to the repurchase date.
	The 2023 Indenture contains covenants that, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to:
	•	Incur certain liens and enter into certain sale leaseback transactions;
	•	Create, assume, incur or guarantee additional indebtedness of the Company’s subsidiaries without such subsidiary guaranteeing the 2023 Notes on a pari passu basis; and
	•	Consolidate or merge with, or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all of the Company’s or its subsidiaries’ assets.
	These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions set forth in the 2023 Indenture. The 2023 Indenture also includes customary events of default, including cross-defaults to other debt of the Company and its subsidiaries.
	Senior Secured Notes
	In January 2010, the Company issued $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2018 Notes and $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.875% senior secured notes due 2020 (the “2020 Notes” and together with the 2018 Notes, the “Senior Secured Notes”) pursuant to separate indentures, each dated as of January 20, 2010, between the Company, certain domestic subsidiaries of the Company that have guaranteed the Company’s obligations under the Senior Secured Notes and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as the trustee (the “2020 Indenture” and “2018 Indenture,” respectively). The Senior Secured Notes bear interest payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company paid $300.0 million to pay in full the principal of the 2018 Notes. The Company’s obligations under the 2020 Notes are—and prior to January 22, 2013, the Company’s obligations under the 2018 Notes were—guaranteed by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and secured by a lien on substantially all of the Company’s and the subsidiary guarantors’ assets. See Note 18, “Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
	As of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, the fair value of the Senior Secured Notes was approximately $324.4 million and $638.3 million, respectively, estimated based on broker trading prices.
	On January 22, 2013, the Company called the 2018 Notes for redemption at a redemption price equal to 103.313% of the principal amount of the 2018 Notes and irrevocably deposited $311.9 million with the trustee for the 2018 Notes to discharge the 2018 Indenture. As a result of the deposit and discharge, the guarantees provided by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and the liens granted by the Company and the subsidiary guarantors to secure their obligations with respect to the 2018 Notes were released as of the date of the deposit. The amount deposited with the trustee included $300.0 million to repay the principal amount of the 2018 Notes, $9.9 million representing the difference between the redemption price and the principal amount of the 2018 Notes (“Call Premium”) and $2.0 million of unpaid interest payable up to the redemption date of February 21, 2013. On February 21, 2013, the trustee redeemed the 2018 Notes using the deposited amount, extinguishing the Company’s $300.0 million liability in relation to the principal amount of the 2018 Notes.
	In accordance with the applicable accounting guidance for debt modification and extinguishment, and for interest costs accounting, the Company expensed the Call Premium, remaining debt issuance costs and remaining original issue discount relating to the 2018 Notes in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, which totaled $15.3 million. The Company reported this expense within “Interest expense” in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013.
	On or after January 2015, the Company may redeem all or a part of the 2020 Notes at the redemption prices set forth in the 2020 Indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the applicable redemption date. In addition, at any time prior to January 2015, the Company may, on one or more than one occasion, redeem some or all of the 2020 Notes at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2020 Notes redeemed, plus a “make-whole” premium determined as of the applicable redemption date, and accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the applicable redemption date.
	If the Company experiences specified change of control triggering events, it must offer to repurchase the 2020 Notes at a repurchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the 2020 Notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the applicable repurchase date. If the Company or its subsidiaries sell assets under certain specified circumstances, the Company must offer to repurchase the 2020 Notes at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2020 Notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the applicable repurchase date.
	The 2020 Indenture contains covenants that, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company and its restricted subsidiaries to:
	•	Pay dividends, make investments or make other restricted payments;
	•	Incur additional indebtedness;
	•	Sell assets;
	•	Enter into transactions with affiliates;
	•	Incur liens;
	•	Permit consensual encumbrances or restrictions on the Company’s restricted subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends or make certain other payments to the Company;
	•	Consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the Company’s or its restricted subsidiaries’ assets; and
	•	Designate subsidiaries as unrestricted.
	These covenants are subject to a number of limitations and exceptions set forth in the 2020 Indenture. The 2020 Indenture also includes customary events of default, including cross-defaults to other debt of the Company and its subsidiaries. Prior to discharge, the 2018 Indenture contained substantially similar covenants and events of default to those in the 2020 Indenture.
	Senior Secured Credit Facility
	In October 2008, the Company entered into a credit agreement for (i) a five-year $1,100.0 million term loan facility and (ii) a five-year $125.0 million revolving credit facility, which includes a $25.0 million swing line loan sub-facility and a $25.0 million letter of credit sub-facility (“Senior Secured Credit Facility”).
	The credit agreement was subsequently amended in January 2010, June 2011, and October 2013, to, among other things, remove and update certain covenants, reduce interest rates on the term loan facility, reduce interest rates and fees on the revolving credit facility, and extend the maturity date of the revolving credit facility to April 7, 2014. In accordance with the applicable accounting guidance for debt modification and extinguishment, the Company expensed $25.5 million of debt issuance costs and original issue discount relating to the portion of the term loan that was extinguished by the repricing of the term loans affected by the June 2011 amendment. This expense was reported within “Interest expense” in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011.
	The term loan was prepaid in full, and there were no principal amounts or commitments outstanding under the term loan facility as of either October 26, 2013, or October 27, 2012.
	The Company may borrow under the revolving credit facility in the future for ongoing working capital and other general corporate purposes. There were no principal amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility, and the full $125.0 million was available for future borrowing under the revolving credit facility as of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012.
	The credit agreement contains financial covenants that require the Company to maintain a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio and maximum consolidated leverage ratio. The credit agreement also includes customary nonfinancial covenants (similar in nature to those under the Senior Secured Notes) and customary events of default, including cross-defaults to the Company’s material indebtedness and change of control. The Company’s obligations under the Senior Secured Credit Facility are guaranteed by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and secured by a lien on substantially all of the Company’s and the subsidiary guarantors’ assets.
	Debt Maturities
	As of October 26, 2013, our aggregate debt maturities based on outstanding principal were as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Principal
		Balances
	2014	$	2,996
	2015	1,284
	2016	320
	2017	—
	2018	—
	Thereafter	600,000
	Total	$	604,600

Commitments_And_Contingencies

Commitments And Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments And Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Operating Leases
	The Company leases certain facilities and certain equipment under various operating agreements expiring through March 2021. In connection with its facilities lease agreements, the Company has signed unconditional, irrevocable letters of credit totaling $0.2 million as security for the leases.
	The following table presents the composition of net rent expense included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Rent expense	$	26,199		$	25,867		$	26,576
	Less: Sublease income	(6,834		)	(6,606		)	(5,643		)
		$	19,365		$	19,261		$	20,933
	Future minimum lease payments under all non-cancellable operating leases as of October 26, 2013, excluding the contractual sublease income of $22.7 million, are as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Operating
		Leases
	2014	$	22,253
	2015	17,040
	2016	15,313
	2017	6,889
	2018	2,884
	Thereafter	5,876
	Total minimum lease payments	$	70,255
	Capital Lease Obligations
	Future minimum lease payments under all non-cancellable capital leases as of October 26, 2013, are as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Capital
		Leases
	2014	$	3,215
	2015	1,329
	2016	326
	2017	—
	Total minimum lease payments	4,870
	Less: Amount representing interest	(270		)
	Present value of net minimum lease payments	$	4,600
	Product Warranties
	The Company’s accrued liability for estimated future warranty costs is included in “Other accrued liabilities” in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s accrued liability for estimated future warranty costs during the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	14,453		$	11,298
	Liabilities accrued for warranties issued during the period	4,969			5,929
	Warranty claims paid and used during the period	(8,213		)	(575		)
	Changes in liability for pre-existing warranties during the period	(2,577		)	(2,199		)
	Ending balance	$	8,632		$	14,453
	In addition, the Company has standard defense and indemnification clauses contained within its various customer contracts. As such, the Company indemnifies the parties to whom it sells its products with respect to the Company’s product, alone or potentially in combination with others, infringing upon any patents, trademarks, copyrights, or trade secrets, as well as against bodily injury or damage to real or tangible personal property caused by a defective Company product. As of October 26, 2013, Brocade was not aware of any events or circumstances that have resulted in a material customer contract-related indemnification liability to the Company.
	Manufacturing and Purchase Commitments
	Brocade has manufacturing arrangements with CMs under which Brocade provides twelve-month product forecasts and places purchase orders at the time of the scheduled delivery of products to Brocade’s customers. The required lead time for placing orders with the CMs depends on the specific product. Brocade issues purchase orders and the CMs then generate invoices based on prices and payment terms mutually agreed upon and set forth in those purchase orders. Although the purchase orders Brocade places with its CMs are cancellable, the terms of the agreements require Brocade to purchase all inventory components not returnable to, usable by, or sold to other customers of the CMs.
	As of October 26, 2013, the Company’s aggregate commitment to the CMs for inventory components used in the manufacture of Brocade products was $186.6 million, which the Company expects to utilize during future normal ongoing operations, net of a purchase commitments reserve of $4.4 million. The Company’s purchase commitments reserve reflects the Company’s estimate of purchase commitments it does not expect to use in normal ongoing operations within the next twelve months.
	Income Taxes
	The Company is subject to several ongoing income tax audits. For additional discussion, see Note 15, “Income Taxes,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company believes it has adequate reserves for all open tax years.
	Legal Proceedings
	Stockholder Litigation
	In March 2012, a stockholder filed a complaint in the Santa Clara County Superior Court captioned Stephen Knee vs. Brocade Communications Systems, Inc., et al. alleging that the proposal in Brocade’s proxy for its 2012 annual meeting of stockholders seeking additional shares for the 2009 Stock Plan pool was misleading and incomplete; the plaintiff claimed the right to enjoin the stockholders’ vote. The parties subsequently agreed to settle the matter. The Court granted final approval of the settlement on December 14, 2012, and a final judgment was then entered on December 19, 2012. Brocade completed the payment of attorney fees and expenses to plaintiff’s counsel in an amount immaterial to Brocade in accordance with the settlement and the final judgment.
	Intellectual Property Litigation
	On June 21, 2005, Enterasys Networks, Inc. (“Enterasys”) filed a lawsuit against Foundry Networks, Inc. (now known as Foundry Networks, LLC) (“Foundry”) and Extreme Networks, Inc. (“Extreme”) in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts alleging that certain of Foundry’s products infringed six of Enterasys’ patents and seeking injunctive relief, as well as unspecified damages. The Court severed the claims against Extreme from the claims against Foundry for trial, and Enterasys subsequently added Brocade as a defendant. On May 1, 2013, the Court entered an order of dismissal with prejudice pursuant to a settlement and patent cross-license agreement reached by the parties on April 19, 2013. As a result of this agreement, Brocade recorded a charge to “Cost of revenues, product” in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, in relation to the portion of the cross license agreement and settlement payment attributable to prior periods. The portion of the cross license agreement and settlement payment attributable to future periods is recorded within “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” and the related amortization is recorded as a charge to “Cost of revenues, product.”
	On September 6, 2006, ChriMar Systems, Inc. (“ChriMar”) filed a lawsuit against Foundry in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan alleging that certain of Foundry’s products infringe one of ChriMar’s patents and seeking injunctive relief, as well as unspecified damages. On August 1, 2012, the Court issued an order granting summary judgment in favor of Brocade and dismissed the case. ChriMar subsequently appealed the District Court’s ruling to the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. On April 4, 2013, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the District Court ruling in favor of Brocade and dismissed the case.
	On August 4, 2010, Brocade and Foundry (collectively and for this paragraph only, “Brocade”) filed a lawsuit against A10 Networks, Inc. (“A10”), A10’s founder and other individuals in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. On October 29, 2010, Brocade filed an amended complaint. In the amended complaint, Brocade alleged that A10 and the individual defendants misappropriated Brocade’s trade secrets, infringed Brocade’s copyrighted works, interfered with existing contracts between Brocade and its employees, whereby certain of Brocade’s current and ex-employees breached contracts, and breached their fiduciary duties and duties of loyalty to Brocade, and that certain of A10’s products infringed 13 of Brocade’s patents. Brocade sought injunctive relief, as well as monetary damages. On May 16, 2011, A10 filed an answer and counterclaim alleging that certain of Brocade’s products infringe a patent recently acquired by A10 and seeking injunctive relief, as well as unspecified damages. In addition, A10 filed petitions with the USPTO to have each of the 13 patents reexamined, in view of prior art that A10 alleges invalidates the patents. The petitions were granted, and reexaminations of the patents are in progress. On January 6, 2012 the Court granted Brocade’s summary judgment motion of non-infringement of the A10 patent. The trial on Brocade’s claims against A10 and the individual defendants commenced on July 16, 2012. On August 6, 2012, the jury found A10 responsible for intellectual property infringement and unfair competition, and awarded damages to Brocade. On January 11, 2013, the Court issued an order that affirmed the jury’s finding of A10’s liability for patent and copyright infringement, trade secret misappropriation, and unfair competition due to A10’s interference with the employment contract of a Foundry Networks employee beginning in 2007. The Court also confirmed the jury’s award of $60.0 million to Brocade in damages for copyright infringement. The Court did, however, vacate the jury’s award of damages for patent infringement, and its award of punitive damages for A10’s and Lee Chen’s interference with the employment contract of the Foundry employee, and the Court ordered a new trial to redetermine the amount of any such damages. On January 11, 2013, the Court also issued a permanent injunction prohibiting A10 from shipping any A10 products that infringe Brocade’s patents. On January 23, 2013, the Court issued a permanent injunction prohibiting A10 from further use of the misappropriated trade secrets. On February 8, 2013, A10 filed a Notice of Appeal of the permanent injunctions. A10 also asked the Court to stay both of the injunctions pending appeal. On February 12, 2013, the Court denied A10’s request to stay the injunctions. A retrial on the sole issue of the amount of patent damages to be awarded to Brocade for A10’s infringement was set for May 20, 2013. On May 20, 2013, before the start of the retrial, Brocade and A10 reached an agreement to settle all matters between the parties including the lawsuit A10 filed against Brocade on September 9, 2011. On June 7, 2013, judgment was entered in favor of Brocade against A10 for the amount of $75.0 million (as further described in Note 14, “Other Income (Loss), net”). Pursuant to that judgment, A10 paid Brocade $5.0 million on June 25, 2013, and on July 22, 2013, the parties signed a $70.0 million, six-month convertible promissory note at 8%. That promissory note was then paid in full on September 30, 2013, including $70.0 million in principal and approximately $1.1 million in interest paid by A10 to Brocade.
	General
	From time to time, the Company is subject to various other legal proceedings and claims, either asserted or unasserted, which arise in the ordinary course of business, including claims of alleged infringement of patents and/or other intellectual property rights and commercial and employment contract disputes. While the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that the outcome of any of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will result in losses that are materially in excess of amounts already recognized.

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities	'
	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
	In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates and the exchange rates associated with foreign currencies. The Company’s primary objective for holding derivative financial instruments is to manage foreign currency exchange rate risk. The Company currently does not enter into derivative instruments to manage credit risk. However, the Company manages its exposure to credit risk through its investment policies. The Company generally enters into derivative transactions with high-credit quality counterparties and, by policy, limits the amount of credit exposure to any one counterparty based on its analysis of that counterparty’s relative credit standing.
	The amounts subject to credit risk related to derivative instruments are generally limited to the amounts, if any, by which the counterparty’s obligations to the Company exceed the Company’s obligations with that counterparty.
	Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
	A majority of the Company’s revenue, expense and capital purchasing activities is transacted in U.S. dollars. However, the Company is exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk inherent in conducting business globally in numerous currencies. The Company is primarily exposed to foreign currency fluctuations related to operating expenses denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, of which the most significant to its operations for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, were the Chinese yuan, the euro, the Japanese yen, the Indian rupee, the British pound, the Singapore dollar and the Swiss franc. The Company has established a foreign currency risk management program to protect against the volatility of future cash flows caused by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. This program reduces, but does not always entirely eliminate, the impact of foreign currency exchange rate movements.
	The Company’s foreign currency risk management program includes foreign currency derivatives with cash flow hedge accounting designation that utilizes foreign currency forward and option contracts to hedge exposures to the variability in the U.S. dollar equivalent of anticipated non-U.S.-dollar-denominated cash flows. These instruments generally have a maturity of less than fifteen months. For these derivatives, the Company reports the after-tax gain or loss from the effective portion of the hedge as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in stockholders’ equity and reclassifies it into earnings in the same period in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The tax effect allocated to cash flow hedge-related components of other comprehensive income (loss) was not significant for the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011.
	Effective cash flow hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Ineffective cash flow hedges are included in the Company’s net income as part of “Other income (loss), net.” The amount recorded on ineffective cash flow hedges was not significant for the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011.
	Net gains (losses) relating to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives recorded in the consolidated statements of income are as follows (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		26-Oct-13			27-Oct-12			29-Oct-11
	Cost of revenues	$	98		$	(1,043	)	$	882
	Research and development	(60		)	(1,094		)	496
	Sales and marketing	356			(5,704		)	5,498
	General and administrative	31			(510		)	416
	Total	$	425		$	(8,351	)	$	7,292
	Alternatively, the Company may choose not to hedge the foreign currency risk associated with its foreign currency exposures if the Company believes such exposure acts as a natural foreign currency hedge for other offsetting amounts denominated in the same currency or if the currency is difficult or too expensive to hedge. The net foreign currency exchange gains and losses recorded as part of “Other income (loss), net” were gains of $0.1 million and losses of $1.5 million and $0.6 million for the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively.
	Gross unrealized loss positions are recorded within “Other accrued liabilities” and “Other non-current liabilities,” and gross unrealized gain positions are recorded within “Prepaid expenses and other current assets.” As of October 26, 2013, the Company had gross unrealized loss positions of $1.4 million and gross unrealized gain positions of $1.8 million included in “Other accrued liabilities” and “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” respectively.
	Volume of Derivative Activity
	Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency, are as follows (in thousands):
		Derivatives Designated						Derivatives Not Designated
		as Hedging Instruments						as Hedging Instruments
	In United States dollars	October 26, 2013			October 27, 2012			October 26, 2013		October 27, 2012
	Euro	$	16,012		$	43,357		$	25,478	$	—
	British pound	25,053			20,499			—		—
	Japanese yen	16,172			3,776			—		12,068
	Indian rupee	17,444			16,046			—		—
	Singapore dollar	12,867			12,918			—		—
	Swiss franc	11,066			8,575			—		—
	Total	$	98,614		$	105,171		$	25,478	$	12,068
	The Company utilizes a rolling hedge strategy for the majority of its foreign currency derivative instruments with cash flow hedge accounting designation that hedges exposures to the variability in the U.S. dollar equivalent of anticipated non-U.S.-dollar-denominated cash flows. All of the Company’s foreign currency forward contracts are single delivery, which are settled at maturity involving one cash payment.

Employee_Compensation_Plans

Employee Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans	'
	Employee Compensation Plans
	In April 2009, the stockholders of Brocade approved the Company’s 2009 Stock Plan, 2009 Director Plan and 2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“2009 ESPP”), and such plans are now part of the Company’s equity compensation plans. The Company’s 1999 Stock Plan, 1999 Director Option Plan and 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan each expired in March 2009 by their terms.
	In April 2012, the stockholders of Brocade approved an amendment and restatement of the Company’s 2009 Stock Plan and 2009 ESPP to increase the plans’ share reserves by 35.0 million and 30.0 million shares, respectively.
	In January 2013, the Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Directors of Brocade adopted the 2013 Inducement Award Plan. The objective of the plan is to provide incentives to attract, retain, and motivate eligible persons whose potential contributions are important to promote the success of the Company.
	2013 Inducement Award Plan
	The 2013 Inducement Award Plan provides for the grant of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, performance units, performance shares, and other stock or cash awards to recipients as the Committee may determine. Per the terms of the plan, 2.4 million shares of the Company’s common stock are reserved for issuance under the plan, subject to adjustment for stock dividends, stock splits, or other changes in the Company’s common stock or the Company’s capital structure. In addition, the exercise price of stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the plan must be at least equal to the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. The term, vesting schedule, and other conditions applicable to grants made under this plan will be established by the Committee at the time of grant.
	2009 Stock Plan
	The 2009 Stock Plan provides for the grant of stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, performance units and performance shares, and other stock or cash awards to employees, directors and consultants. Per the terms of the 2009 Stock Plan, as amended, 83.0 million shares of the Company’s common stock are reserved for issuance under the plan, plus the following:
	•	Any shares subject to stock options or similar awards granted under the Company’s 1999 Stock Plan, 1999 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan (“NSO Plan”) and 2001 McDATA Equity Incentive Plan that expire or otherwise terminate without having been exercised in full; and
	•	Shares issued pursuant to awards granted under the Company’s 1999 Stock Plan, 1999 NSO Plan and 2001 McDATA Equity Incentive Plan that are forfeited to or repurchased by the Company, with the maximum number of shares to be added to the 2009 Stock Plan pursuant to this clause equal to 40.3 million shares.
	2009 Director Plan
	The 2009 Director Plan provides for the grant of stock options and restricted stock units to non-employee directors of the Company. The Board of Directors has reserved 2.0 million shares of the Company’s common stock for issuance under the 2009 Director Plan, plus any shares subject to stock options or similar awards granted under the Company’s 1999 Director Option Plan that expire or otherwise terminate without having been exercised in full, and shares issued pursuant to awards granted under the Company’s 1999 Director Option Plan that are forfeited to or repurchased by the Company, with the maximum number of shares to be added to the 2009 Director Plan pursuant to this clause equal to 0.9 million shares.
	2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
	The 2009 ESPP permits eligible employees to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock through payroll deductions for up to 15% of qualified compensation during the offering period. The purchase price is 85% of the lesser of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on (i) the first trading day of the offering period, or (ii) the last day of each purchase period; provided, however, that the purchase price for subsequent offering periods may be determined by the administrator, subject to compliance with the terms of the 2009 ESPP. A total of 65.0 million shares of the Company’s common stock are reserved for issuance under the 2009 ESPP, as amended. The 2009 ESPP is implemented through consecutive, overlapping offering periods. The offering periods generally start with the first trading day on or after June 1 and December 1 each year and end on the last trading day in the periods ending twenty-four months later, unless the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the last day of a purchase period is lower than the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the first trading day of the offering period, in which case the offering period will end early, immediately after the purchase period, and a new offering period will commence on or about such date. Each offering period will be divided into four purchase periods of approximately six months in length. Eligible employees may purchase no more than 3,750 shares of the Company’s common stock during each purchase period. As of October 26, 2013, 27.9 million shares were available for issuance under the 2009 ESPP.
	1999 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan
	In September 1999, the Board of Directors approved the Company’s 1999 NSO Plan. The 1999 NSO Plan provides for the grant of nonstatutory stock options to employees and consultants. A total of 51.4 million shares of the Company’s common stock have been reserved for issuance under the 1999 NSO Plan. As of October 26, 2013, the Company has reserved 0.2 million shares of authorized but unissued shares of common stock for future issuance upon exercise of options under the 1999 NSO Plan.
	McDATA Equity Plans
	On January 29, 2007, effective upon the consummation of the merger, Brocade assumed the McDATA equity plans. As of October 26, 2013, options to purchase approximately 0.8 million shares of converted common stock, restricted stock and other equity awards remained outstanding under former McDATA equity plans.
	Summary of Equity Compensation Plans
	The Company may grant stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units for shares of the Company’s common stock and other types of equity compensation awards to its employees and directors under the various equity compensation plans described above. In accordance with the terms of the 2009 Stock Plan and the 2009 Director Plan, each award granted with an exercise price that is less than fair market value, which includes all grants of restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units, will count against the applicable plan’s share reserve as 1.56 shares for every one share subject to such award. In addition, the exercise price of stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the 2009 Stock Plan must be at least equal to the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant and the exercise price of incentive stock options granted to any participant who owns more than 10% of the total voting power of all classes of the Company’s outstanding stock must be at least 110% of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.
	The term of a stock option and a stock appreciation right may not exceed seven years, except that, with respect to any participant who owns 10% of the voting power of all classes of the Company’s outstanding capital stock, the term of an incentive stock option may not exceed five years. The majority of the stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units granted under the Company’s equity compensation plans vest over a period of three to four years. Certain options and awards granted under the 2009 Stock Plan vest over shorter or longer periods.
	As of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, approximately 90.6 million and 126.7 million shares, respectively, were authorized for future issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plans, which include stock options, shares to be issued pursuant to the 2009 ESPP, restricted stock units and other awards, and shares of Brocade common stock that became issuable in connection with the assumption or substitution of Foundry equity awards. A total of 56.8 million shares and 76.0 million shares of common stock were available for grant under the Company’s equity compensation plans as of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, respectively. Awards that expire, or are canceled without delivery of shares, generally become available for issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plans.
	Employee 401(k) Plan
	The Company sponsors the Brocade Communications Systems, Inc. 401(k) Plan (“401(k) Plan”), which qualifies under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code and is designed to provide retirement benefits for its eligible employees through tax-deferred salary deductions.
	Employees may elect to contribute up to 60% of their eligible compensation to the 401(k) Plan. Employee contributions are limited to a maximum annual amount as set periodically by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). The Company matches employee contributions dollar for dollar up to a maximum of $3,000 per calendar year per person. All matching contributions vest immediately. The Company’s matching contributions to the 401(k) Plan totaled $9.2 million, $9.1 million and $9.3 million for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Equity Compensation Plan Information
	The following table summarizes information with respect to shares of the Company’s common stock that may be issued under the Company’s existing equity compensation plans as of October 26, 2013 (in thousands, except per-share amounts):
	Plan Category	A				B				C
										Number of Securities
										Remaining Available
		Number of Securities								for Future Issuance
		to be Issued				Weighted-Average				Under Equity
		upon Exercise of				Exercise Price of				Compensation Plans
		Outstanding Options,				Outstanding Options,				(Excludes Securities
		Warrants and Rights				Warrants and Rights				Reflected in Column A)
	Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders (1)	9,686		(3)		$	6.51			56,756		(4)
	Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders (2)	2,875		(5)		$	5.12			—
	Total	12,561				$	6.19			56,756
	(1)	Primarily consist of the 2009 ESPP, the 2009 and 1999 Director Plans, and the 2009 and 1999 Stock Plans.
	(2)	Consist solely of the 1999 NSO Plan described in Note 11, “Employee Compensation Plans,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and Foundry’s 2000 NSO Plan, which was assumed in connection with our acquisition of Foundry.
	(3)	Amount excludes purchase rights accrued under the 2009 ESPP. As of October 26, 2013, the 2009 ESPP had a stockholder-approved reserve of 65.0 million shares, of which 27.9 million shares were available for future issuance.
	(4)	Amount consists of shares available for future issuance under the 2009 ESPP, the 2009 Director Plan and the 2009 Stock Plan.
	(5)	A substantial number of shares were granted in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013. Information relating to equity compensation plans is set forth in Note 11, “Employee Compensation Plans,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, was included in the following line items on the Consolidated Statements of Income as follows (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013				Fiscal Year Ended October 27, 2012				Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2011
	Cost of revenues	$	14,519			$	15,433			$	15,607
	Research and development	17,509				17,952				18,959
	Sales and marketing	29,425				33,257				36,068
	General and administrative	12,165				10,527				12,442
	Total stock-based compensation	$	73,618			$	77,169			$	83,076
	The following table presents stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, by grant type (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013				Fiscal Year Ended October 27, 2012				Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2011
	Stock options	$	2,581			$	1,079			$	3,483
	Restricted stock units (“RSUs”)	50,522				56,791				55,750
	Employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”)	20,515				19,299				23,843
	Total stock-based compensation	$	73,618			$	77,169			$	83,076
	The following table presents unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, of the Company’s equity compensation plans as of October 26, 2013, which is expected to be recognized over the following weighted-average periods (in thousands, except for weighted-average period):
		Unrecognized				Weighted-
		Compensation				Average Period
		Expense				(in years)
	Stock options	$	3,565			1.38
	RSUs	$	86,956			2.02
	ESPP	$	6,270			0.88
	Stock Options
	The fair value of each option granted during the respective period is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model and the assumptions noted in the following table. The dividend yield reflects that Brocade has not paid any cash dividends since inception. The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield on a U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issue with a remaining term equal to the expected term of the option. The expected volatility is based on an equal weighted-average of implied volatilities from traded options of the Company’s common stock and historical volatility of the Company’s common stock. The expected term is based on historical exercise behavior.
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected dividend yield	0	%		0	%		0	%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.6 - 1.7%			0.1 - 0.8%			0.1 - 0.6%
	Expected volatility	39.9 - 44.9%			48.8 - 56.5%			50.3 - 61.9%
	Expected term (in years)	5.7			4.7			3.9
	Compensation expense computed under the fair value method for stock options issued is being amortized under a graded vesting method over the options’ vesting period. A summary of stock option activity under the equity compensation plans for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, is presented as follows:
		Shares			Weighted-Average				Weighted-Average				Weighted-Average	Aggregate
		(in  thousands)			Exercise Price				Grant Date Fair Value				Remaining	Intrinsic
													Contractual Term	Value
													(in years)	(in thousands)
	Outstanding as of October 30, 2010	71,666			$	4.82							2.58	$	146,199
	Granted	243			5.47				$	2.23
	Exercised	(16,814	)		3.48									46,047
	Forfeited or expired	(4,330	)		9.03
	Outstanding as of October 29, 2011	50,765			4.91								1.98	35,494
	Granted	160			5.55				$	2.39
	Exercised	(16,993	)		3.39									36,498
	Forfeited or expired	(4,435	)		7.34
	Outstanding as of October 27, 2012	29,497			5.43								1.61	26,077
	Granted	2,875			5.64				$	2.34
Exercised	(13,149	)		3.99									32,324
Forfeited or expired	(6,662	)		6.9
Outstanding as of October 26, 2013	12,561			6.19								2.37	24,784
Vested and expected to vest as of October 26, 2013	12,384			$	6.21							2.32	$	24,393
Exercisable and vested as of:
26-Oct-13	9,586			$	6.37							1.2	$	18,300
Restricted Stock Units
A summary of the changes in restricted stock units outstanding under Brocade’s equity compensation plans during the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, is presented as follows:
	Shares			Weighted-Average
	(in  thousands)			Grant Date  Fair Value
Nonvested as of October 30, 2010	28,171			$	4.32
Granted	12,754			5.68
Vested	(13,434	)		5.82
Forfeited	(4,010	)		6.37
Nonvested as of October 29, 2011	23,481			3.85
Granted	11,166			4.97
Vested	(9,597	)		4.82
Forfeited	(3,054	)		5.92
Nonvested as of October 27, 2012	21,996			3.71
Granted	11,518			5.75
Vested	(7,401	)		5.69
Forfeited	(3,352	)		5.39
Nonvested as of October 26, 2013	22,761			3.85
Vested and expected to vest as of October 26, 2013	19,565			$	3.85
Typically, vesting of restricted stock units occurs over one to four years and is subject to the employee’s continuing service to Brocade.
The aggregate intrinsic value of restricted stock units outstanding at October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, was $178.8 million, $116.6 million and $105.9 million, respectively.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Under Brocade’s employee stock purchase plans, including the 2009 ESPP and the 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (together, the “Brocade ESPP”), eligible employees can participate and purchase shares semi-annually at the lower of 85% of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on (i) the first trading day of the offering period, or (ii) the last day of each six-month purchase period. The Brocade ESPP permits eligible employees to purchase common stock through payroll deductions for up to 15% of qualified compensation. The Company accounts for the Brocade ESPP as a compensatory plan and compensation expense is being amortized under a graded vesting method over the twenty-four months offering period. In addition, the Company accounts for changes in percentage contribution elected by employees, as well as decreases in the Company’s common stock price on the last day of each six-month purchase period as compared to the common stock price on the first trading day of the offering period, by applying modification accounting which results in an increase in compensation expense during the period of modification.
The fair value of the option component of Brocade ESPP shares was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following weighted-average assumptions:
	Fiscal Year Ended
	October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
	2013			2012			2011
Expected dividend yield	0	%		0	%		0	%
Risk-free interest rate	0.2	%		0.2	%		0.6	%
Expected volatility	39.5	%		52.5	%		65.5	%
Expected term (in years)	1.3			1.5			1.1

Loss_On_Sale_Of_Subsidiary

Loss On Sale Of Subsidiary	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Loss On Sale Of Subsidiary	'
	Loss on Sale of Subsidiary
	In August 2011, the Company committed to a plan to exit a portion of its Global Services business through the sale of Strategic Business Systems, Inc. (“SBS”), its wholly-owned subsidiary, and signed a Stock Purchase Agreement to sell SBS to investors led by the former Managing Director of SBS. The sale was completed in September 2011 to enable the Company’s Global Services organization to focus on the execution of strategic and core offerings such as support and service for the Company’s products as well as professional consulting.
	SBS’ assets and liabilities were classified as held for sale in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011 as a result of the Company’s commitment and actions. The net carrying amount of SBS’ assets and liabilities classified as held for sale was $16.2 million, comprising primarily of intangible assets of $11.1 million. Upon classifying the SBS assets as held for sale, the Company recognized an expected loss on disposal of $11.1 million, reducing the carrying amount of the SBS intangible assets to their fair value less costs to sell. Additionally, when the sale was completed, the Company wrote off $1.7 million of the associated Global Services goodwill, resulting in a total loss of $12.8 million, which is presented in the Company’s consolidated statements of income as “Loss on sale of subsidiary.”

Other_Income_Loss_net

Other Income (Loss), net	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]	'
Other Income (Loss), net	'
	Other Income (Loss), net
	On May 20, 2013, Brocade and A10 Networks, Inc. (“A10”) reached an agreement to settle both the lawsuit that Brocade filed against A10, A10’s founder and other individuals in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California on August 4, 2010, and the lawsuit that A10 filed against Brocade on September 9, 2011, along with all related claims as described in Note 9, “Commitments and Contingencies - Intellectual Property Litigation,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Among other agreed upon terms, A10 has granted the Company a broad patent license and agreed to pay the Company $5.0 million in cash and issued a $70.0 million unsecured convertible promissory note payable to the Company, which bore interest at 8% per annum. A10 fully paid the unsecured convertible promissory note in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013. A10 also has agreed not to use any of the versions of source code that were found to infringe any of Brocade’s copyrights, patents or trade secrets, except as necessary to service prior versions of product already sold to and in the possession of A10’s customers. In addition, the settlement provides certain mutual covenants not to sue for various periods of time and certain general releases.
	Based on the fair value of the consideration received as a result of this settlement, the Company recognized a gain of $76.8 million in the third quarter of fiscal year 2013, which is reported within “Other income (loss), net” in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013.
	The current and non-current portion of the $1.8 million in fair value of certain licensing rights granted to the Company as part of the settlement were reported within “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” and “Other assets,” respectively, in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of October 26, 2013.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The domestic and international components of income (loss) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, are presented as follows (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,				October 27,				October 29,
		2013				2012				2011 (1)
	United States	$	176,536			$	115,736			$	(42,118	)
	International	153,925				108,665				121,546
	Total	$	330,461			$	224,401			$	79,428
	(1)	Excludes the impact of repatriation of $200.0 million from offshore operations to the United States.
	The income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, consisted of the following (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,				October 27,				October 29,
		2013				2012				2011
	U.S. federal taxes:
	Current	$	(13,666	)		$	(11,750	)		$	774
	Deferred	46,313				33,981				28,111
	Total U.S. federal taxes	32,647				22,231				28,885
	State taxes:
	Current	8,091				613				1,250
	Deferred	78,106				(2,412		)		(9,187		)
	Total state taxes	86,197				(1,799		)		(7,937		)
	Non-U.S. taxes:
	Current	2,837				8,770				7,854
	Deferred	157				18				16
	Total non-U.S. taxes	2,994				8,788				7,870
	Total	$	121,838			$	29,220			$	28,818
	The difference between the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate and the Company’s effective tax rate for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, consisted of the following:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State taxes, net of federal tax benefit	4.1			3.8			3.3
	Foreign income taxed at other than U.S. rates	(17.6	)		(17.7	)		(48.2	)
	Stock-based compensation	1.9			3.5			11.8
	Research and development credit	(5.6	)		(3.5	)		(17.6	)
	Permanent items	0.3			0.3			1.2
	Change in liabilities for uncertain tax positions	(5.1	)		(6.5	)		2.5
	Repatriation from offshore operations	—			—			62.6
	Audit settlement and reinstated tax credit	1.3			(2.9	)		(11.7	)
	Change in valuation allowance	23.7			—			—
	Other	(1.1	)		1			(2.6	)
	Effective tax rate	36.9	%		13	%		36.3	%
	In general, the Company’s provision for income taxes differs from the tax computed at the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate due to state taxes, the effect of non-U.S. operations, non-deductible stock-based compensation expense and adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits.
	The effective tax rate in fiscal year 2013 is higher than the 35% U.S. Federal statutory rate primarily due to a discrete charge of $78.2 million to reduce previously recognized California deferred tax assets due to California law changes. The effective tax rate in fiscal year 2012 is lower than the 35% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to earnings in our subsidiaries outside of the U.S. in jurisdictions where our effective tax rate is lower than in the U.S. Earnings of our subsidiaries outside of the U.S. primarily relate to our European and Asia Pacific businesses, which are headquartered in Switzerland and Singapore, respectively. The effective tax rate in fiscal year 2011 is higher than the 35% U.S. Federal statutory rate primarily due to the repatriation of $200.0 million from our offshore operations, with which we repurchased approximately 46.5 million shares of the Company’s stock. The Company recorded tax expense of $49.7 million related to this one-time cash repatriation to fund the stock repurchase program.
	As of October 26, 2013, U.S. Federal income taxes and foreign withholding taxes were not provided for on an estimated cumulative total of $525.2 million of undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries. The Company intends to reinvest current and accumulated earnings of its foreign subsidiaries for expansion of its business operations outside the United States for an indefinite period of time. Our existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled $987.0 million as of October 26, 2013. Of this amount, approximately 59% was held by our foreign subsidiaries. If these earnings were distributed to the United States in the form of dividends or otherwise, or if the shares of the relevant foreign subsidiaries were sold or otherwise transferred, the Company could be subject to additional U.S. income taxes, net of foreign tax credits, and foreign withholding taxes. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred income tax liability related to these earnings is not practicable.
	The components of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities for the years ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, are presented as follows (in thousands):
		October 26,				October 27,
		2013				2012
	Net operating loss carryforwards	$	10,525			$	63,750
	Stock-based compensation expense	17,664				22,582
	Tax credit carryforwards	141,975				145,688
	Reserves and accruals	63,765				94,755
	Capitalized research and development expenditures	621				3,232
	Net unrealized losses on investments	396				468
	Gross deferred tax assets	234,946				330,475
	Less: Valuation allowance	(81,116		)		(22,269		)
	Total deferred tax assets	153,830				308,206
	Acquired intangibles and goodwill	(22,307		)		(50,266		)
	Fixed assets	(29,878		)		(28,110		)
	Other	(2,042		)		(2,116		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(54,227		)		(80,492		)
	Total net deferred tax assets	$	99,603			$	227,714
	As of October 26, 2013, the Company believes that sufficient positive evidence exists from historical operations and projections of taxable income in future years to conclude that it is more likely than not that the Company will realize its deferred tax assets except for California deferred tax assets and capital loss carryforwards. Accordingly, the Company applies a valuation allowance to the California deferred tax assets due to the recent change in California law and to capital loss carryforwards due to the limited carryforward periods of these tax assets.
As of October 26, 2013, the Company had federal net operating loss carryforwards of $443.6 million, California state net operating loss carryforwards of $57.1 million and other significant state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $144.0 million. Additionally, the Company had federal tax credit carryforwards of $155.1 million and state tax credit carryforwards of $164.5 million. The federal net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards expire on various dates between fiscal year 2017 through 2033. The state net operating loss and credit carryforwards expire on various dates between fiscal year 2014 through 2033. Under the current tax law, net operating loss and credit carryforwards available to offset future income in any given year may be limited by statute or upon the occurrence of certain events, including significant changes in ownership interests. As a result of the McDATA, Foundry, and Vyatta acquisitions, all of the tax attributes from these companies are subject to an annual limitation, but the Company expects to use a majority of the tax attributes before expiration.
The Company applies a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of an income tax position taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. Recognition of a tax position is determined when it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation process. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of total gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding accrued net interest and penalties, is as follows (in thousands):
	October 26,				October 27,
	2013				2012
Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning balance	$	119,253			$	149,430
Gross increases for tax positions taken in prior periods	3,472				797
Gross decreases for tax positions taken in prior periods	(12,970		)		(26,001		)
Gross increases for tax positions taken in current period	14,875				6,633
Changes due to settlements with taxing authorities	(9,442		)		(6,771		)
Reductions resulting from lapses of statutes of limitations	(2,709		)		(4,835		)
Unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance	$	112,479			$	119,253
As of October 26, 2013, the Company had net unrecognized tax benefits of $75.8 million, all of which, if recognized, would result in a reduction of the Company’s effective tax rate.
For the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $121.8 million. The tax reported was impacted by a detriment to reduce previously recognized California deferred tax assets as a result of California law changes, partially offset by benefits from reserve release resulting from audit settlements and expired statute of limitations, and an increase in the federal research and development tax credit that was reinstated on January 2, 2013, for two years and made retroactive to January 1, 2012.
For the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $29.2 million. The tax reported was impacted by the effect of a decrease in benefit from the federal research and development tax credit which expired on December 31, 2011, offset by discrete benefits from reserve releases of settled tax audits, and the expiration of certain statutes of limitations.
The IRS and other tax authorities regularly examine the Company’s income tax returns. The IRS is currently examining fiscal years 2009 and 2010. In addition, the Company is in negotiations with foreign tax authorities to obtain correlative relief on transfer pricing adjustments previously settled with the IRS. The Company believes that reserves for unrecognized tax benefits are adequate for all open tax years. The timing of income tax examinations, as well as the amounts and timing of related settlements, if any, are highly uncertain. The Company believes that before the end of fiscal year 2014, it is reasonably possible that either certain audits will conclude or the statutes of limitations relating to certain income tax examination periods will expire, or both. As such, after the Company reaches settlement with the tax authorities, the Company expects to record a corresponding adjustment to the reserves for unrecognized tax benefits. Taking into consideration the inherent uncertainty as to settlement terms, the timing of payments and the impact of such settlements on other uncertain tax positions, the Company estimates the range of potential decreases in underlying uncertain tax positions is between $0 and $4.0 million in the next twelve months.
The Company classifies interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company expensed $0.6 million for net interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities through income tax expense. The total net interest and penalties accrued as of October 26, 2013, was $2.3 million. During the year ended October 27, 2012, the Company expensed $0.5 million for net interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities through income tax expense. The total net interest and penalties accrued as of October 27, 2012, was $2.4 million.
Of the total tax detriments resulting from the exercise of employee stock options and employee participation in the Company’s equity compensation plans, the amounts recorded to stockholders’ equity were approximately $1.5 million in fiscal year 2013, $4.8 million in fiscal year 2012 and $5.2 million in fiscal year 2011.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Segment Information
	Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”), or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Currently, the Company’s CODM is its Chief Executive Officer.
	Brocade is organized into four operating segments: Storage Area Networking (“SAN”) Products, Global Services, Ethernet Switching & Internet Protocol (“IP”) Routing, and Application Delivery Products (“ADP”). SAN and Global Services are two individually reportable segments, and the other two operating segments, Ethernet Switching & IP Routing and ADP, combine to form a third reportable segment: IP Networking Products. These segments are organized principally by product category.
	The types of products and services from which each reportable segment derives its revenues are as follows:
	•	SAN Products include infrastructure products and solutions that assist customers in the development and delivery of storage and server consolidation, disaster recovery and data security, and in meeting compliance issues regarding data management. These products are used to build storage area networks and are generally used in conjunction with servers and storage subsystems, SAN interconnection components such as host bus adapters (“HBAs”), and server and storage management software applications and tools. Brocade’s family of Fibre Channel (“FC”) SAN backbones, directors, fabric and embedded switches provide interconnections, bandwidth and high-speed routing of data between servers and storage devices. Switches and directors support applications such as data backup, remote mirroring and high-availability clustering, as well as high-volume transaction processing applications such as enterprise resource planning and data warehousing. Brocade’s storage networking products also include HBAs, which connect host computers to a FC network. Additionally, Brocade offers a variety of fabric extension, switching and routing solutions;
	•	IP Networking Products include Open Systems Interconnection Reference Model (“OSI”) Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches and routers that are designed to connect users in an enterprise network, enabling network connectivity such as access to the Internet, network-based communications, and collaboration through unified messaging applications and mobility. Brocade also offers converged network products, and a portfolio of platforms designed for service provider environments as well as carrier Ethernet products. Additionally, the Company offers OSI Layer 4-7 solutions that are designed for application traffic management and server load balancing; and
	•	Global Services include break/fix maintenance, installation, consulting, network management and software maintenance and customer support revenue.
	Financial decisions and the allocation of resources are based on the information from the Company’s internal management reporting system. At this point in time, the Company does not track all of its assets by operating segments. The majority of the Company’s assets as of October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, were attributable to its United States operations.
	Summarized financial information by reportable segment for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, based on the internal management reporting system, is as follows (in thousands):
		SAN		IP Networking		Global Services		Total
		Products		Products
	Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013
	Net revenues	$	1,318,509	$	552,058	$	352,297	$	2,222,864
	Cost of revenues	355,388		302,974		155,623		813,985
	Gross margin	$	963,121	$	249,084	$	196,674	$	1,408,879
	Fiscal Year Ended October 27, 2012
	Net revenues	$	1,356,099	$	534,757	$	346,914	$	2,237,770
	Cost of revenues	362,608		327,248		164,895		854,751
	Gross margin	$	993,491	$	207,509	$	182,019	$	1,383,019
	Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2011
	Net revenues	$	1,237,994	$	551,820	$	357,628	$	2,147,442
	Cost of revenues	356,013		321,183		186,712		863,908
	Gross margin	$	881,981	$	230,637	$	170,916	$	1,283,534
	Revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on where the Company’s products are shipped. Geographic revenue and property and equipment information for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011 is presented below (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,		October 27,		October 29,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net revenues:
	United States	$	1,351,242	$	1,414,390	$	1,313,302
	International
	Europe, the Middle East and Africa (1)	552,734		493,979		502,999
	Asia Pacific	181,461		186,244		212,636
	Japan	97,259		99,887		75,542
	Canada, Central and South America	40,168		43,270		42,963
	Total international net revenues	871,622		823,380		834,140
	Total net revenues	$	2,222,864	$	2,237,770	$	2,147,442
	(1)	Includes net revenues of $339.1 million, $259.2 million and $257.5 million for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively, relating to the Netherlands.
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,		October 27,		October 29,
		2013		2012		2011
	Property and equipment, net:
	United States	$	457,622	$	500,744	$	515,940
	International	15,318		18,196		16,444
	Total property and equipment, net	$	472,940	$	518,940	$	532,384

Net_Income_Per_Share

Net Income Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Net Income Per Share	'
	Net Income Per-Share
	The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted net income per-share (in thousands, except per-share amounts):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,		October 27,		October 29,
		2013		2012		2011
	Basic net income per-share
	Net income	$	208,623	$	195,181	$	50,610
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income per-share	450,516		456,629		474,259
	Basic net income per-share	$	0.46	$	0.43	$	0.11
	Diluted net income per-share
	Net income	$	208,623	$	195,181	$	50,610
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income per-share	450,516		456,629		474,259
	Dilutive potential common shares in the form of stock options	3,472		7,846		13,654
	Dilutive potential common shares in the form of other share-based awards	9,717		7,868		9,117
	Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income per-share	463,705		472,343		497,030
	Diluted net income per-share	$	0.45	$	0.41	$	0.1
	Antidilutive potential common shares in the form of (1)
	Stock options	11,868		16,402		21,905
	Other share-based awards	167		570		3,075
	(1)	These amounts are excluded from the computation of diluted net income per-share.

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Abstract]	'
Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries	'
	Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
	On January 20, 2010, the Company issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 2018 Notes and 2020 Notes. In addition, on January 22, 2013, the Company issued $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Notes. The Company’s obligations under the 2023 Notes and the 2020 Notes are, and prior to January 22, 2013, the Company’s obligations under the 2018 Notes were, guaranteed by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”). Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors is 100% owned by the Company and all guarantees are joint and several. The Senior Secured Notes are not guaranteed by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and all of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries (the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”).
	Pursuant to the terms of the Indentures governing the Senior Secured Notes, the guarantees are full and unconditional, but are subject to release under the following circumstances:
	•	Upon the sale of the subsidiary or all or substantially all of its assets;
	•	Upon the discharge of the guarantees under the credit facility and any other debt guaranteed by the applicable subsidiary provided that the credit facility has been paid in full and the applicable series of senior secured notes have an investment grade rating from both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s;
	•	Upon designation of the subsidiary as an “unrestricted subsidiary” under the applicable Indenture;
	•	Upon the merger, consolidation or liquidation of the subsidiary into the Company or another subsidiary guarantor; and
	•	Upon legal or covenant defeasance or the discharge of the Company’s obligations under the applicable indenture.
	The guarantees of the 2018 Notes were released on January 22, 2013, upon the discharge of the 2018 Indenture.
	Pursuant to the terms of the Indenture governing the 2023 Notes, the guarantees are full and unconditional but are subject to release under the following circumstances:
	•	Upon the sale of the subsidiary or all or substantially all of its assets;
	•	Upon the discharge of the guarantees under the Senior Secured Credit Facility, the 2020 Notes and any other debt guaranteed by the applicable subsidiary;
	•	Upon the merger, consolidation or liquidation of the subsidiary into the Company or another subsidiary guarantor; and
	•	Upon legal or covenant defeasance or the discharge of the Company’s obligations under the applicable indenture.
	Because the guarantees are subject to release under the above described circumstances, they would not be deemed “full and unconditional” for purposes of Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X. However, as these circumstances are customary, the Company concluded that it may rely on Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X, as the other requirements of Rule 3-10 have been met.
	The following tables present consolidated financial statements for the parent company, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries, respectively.
	The following is the consolidated balance sheet as of October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Assets
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	396,710		$	9,301		$	580,986		$	—		$	986,997
	Accounts receivable, net	159,436			328			89,834			—			249,598
	Inventories	40,072			—			5,272			—			45,344
	Intercompany receivables	—			464,443			—			(464,443		)	—
	Other current assets	127,709			7			11,395			1,753			140,864
	Total current assets	723,927			474,079			687,487			(462,690		)	1,422,803
	Property and equipment, net	457,054			567			15,319			—			472,940
	Investment in subsidiaries	1,026,247			—			—			(1,026,247		)	—
	Other non-current assets	1,626,031			95,624			3,993			—			1,725,648
	Total assets	$	3,833,259		$	570,270		$	706,799		$	(1,488,937	)	$	3,621,391
	Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
	Current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	$	68,190		$	28		$	20,000		$	—		$	88,218
	Current portion of long-term debt	2,996			—			—			—			2,996
	Intercompany payables	409,590			—			54,853			(464,443		)	—
	Other current liabilities	335,261			7,075			125,360			1,753			469,449
	Total current liabilities	816,037			7,103			200,213			(462,690		)	560,663
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	596,208			—			—			—			596,208
	Other non-current liabilities	74,201			—			43,506			—			117,707
	Total liabilities	1,486,446			7,103			243,719			(462,690		)	1,274,578
	Total stockholders’ equity	2,346,813			563,167			463,080			(1,026,247		)	2,346,813
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,833,259		$	570,270		$	706,799		$	(1,488,937	)	$	3,621,391
	The following is the consolidated balance sheet as of October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Assets
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	284,466		$	680		$	428,080		$	—		$	713,226
	Accounts receivable, net	150,367			(1,847		)	84,619			—			233,139
	Inventories	55,084			—			13,095			—			68,179
	Intercompany receivables	—			478,133			—			(478,133		)	—
	Other current assets	124,690			514			15,606			225			141,035
	Total current assets	614,607			477,480			541,400			(477,908		)	1,155,579
	Property and equipment, net	500,530			213			18,197			—			518,940
	Investment in subsidiaries	871,157			—			—			(871,157		)	—
	Other non-current assets	1,814,729			90,766			1,247			—			1,906,742
	Total assets	$	3,801,023		$	568,459		$	560,844		$	(1,349,065	)	$	3,581,261
	Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
	Current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	$	92,661		$	—		$	24,689		$	—		$	117,350
Current portion of long-term debt	2,226			(249		)	—			—			1,977
Intercompany payables	434,981			—			43,152			(478,133		)	—
Other current liabilities	346,959			7,628			136,329			225			491,141
Total current liabilities	876,827			7,379			204,170			(477,908		)	610,468
Long-term debt, net of current portion	599,203			—			—			—			599,203
Other non-current liabilities	89,173			2,429			44,168			—			135,770
Total liabilities	1,565,203			9,808			248,338			(477,908		)	1,345,441
Total stockholders’ equity	2,235,820			558,651			312,506			(871,157		)	2,235,820
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,801,023		$	568,459		$	560,844		$	(1,349,065	)	$	3,581,261
The following is the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
Revenues	$	1,347,055		$	4,257		$	871,552		$	—		$	2,222,864
Intercompany revenues	25,507			—			22,123			(47,630		)	—
Total net revenues	1,372,562			4,257			893,675			(47,630		)	2,222,864
Cost of revenues	534,699			38,991			232,807			7,488			813,985
Intercompany cost of revenues	(58,050		)	—			105,680			(47,630		)	—
Total cost of revenues	476,649			38,991			338,487			(40,142		)	813,985
Gross margin (loss)	895,913			(34,734		)	555,188			(7,488		)	1,408,879
Operating expenses	826,239			34,175			247,470			(7,488		)	1,100,396
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	(127,997		)	(22,443		)	150,440			—			—
Total operating expenses	698,242			11,732			397,910			(7,488		)	1,100,396
Income (loss) from operations	197,671			(46,466		)	157,278			—			308,483
Other income (expense)	25,481			258			(3,370		)	(391		)	21,978
Income (loss) before income tax provision and equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	223,152			(46,208		)	153,908			(391		)	330,461
Income tax expense	117,654			1,190			2,994			—			121,838
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	103,516			—			—			(103,516		)	—
Net income (loss)	$	209,014		$	(47,398	)	$	150,914		$	(103,907	)	$	208,623
The following is the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
Revenues	$	1,409,705		$	4,685		$	823,380		$	—		$	2,237,770
Intercompany revenues	44,152			—			21,709			(65,861		)	—
Total net revenues	1,453,857			4,685			845,089			(65,861		)	2,237,770
Cost of revenues	559,835			49,935			234,889			10,092			854,751
Intercompany cost of revenues	(35,070		)	—			100,931			(65,861		)	—
Total cost of revenues	524,765			49,935			335,820			(55,769		)	854,751
Gross margin (loss)	929,092			(45,250		)	509,269			(10,092		)	1,383,019
Operating expenses	827,318			56,838			231,226			(10,092		)	1,105,290
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	(138,197		)	(27,319		)	165,516			—			—
Total operating expenses	689,121			29,519			396,742			(10,092		)	1,105,290
Income (loss) from operations	239,971			(74,769		)	112,527			—			277,729
Other income (expense)	(49,470		)	4			(3,862		)	—			(53,328		)
Income (loss) before income tax provision and equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	190,501			(74,765		)	108,665			—			224,401
Income tax expense	20,432			—			8,788			—			29,220
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	25,112			—			—			(25,112		)	—
Net income (loss)	$	195,181		$	(74,765	)	$	99,877		$	(25,112	)	$	195,181
The following is the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
Revenues	$	1,285,732		$	27,569		$	834,141		$	—		$	2,147,442
Intercompany revenues	88,063			1,753			35,980			(125,796		)	—
Total net revenues	1,373,795			29,322			870,121			(125,796		)	2,147,442
Cost of revenues	531,162			85,540			233,448			13,758			863,908
Intercompany cost of revenues	(2,263		)	—			128,059			(125,796		)	—
Total cost of revenues	528,899			85,540			361,507			(112,038		)	863,908
Gross margin (loss)	844,896			(56,218		)	508,614			(13,758		)	1,283,534
Operating expenses	821,018			76,645			222,109			(13,758		)	1,106,014
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	(138,789		)	(25,694		)	164,483			—			—
Total operating expenses	682,229			50,951			386,592			(13,758		)	1,106,014
Income (loss) from operations	162,667			(107,169		)	122,022			—			177,520
Other expense	109,902			(7,518		)	(200,476		)	—			(98,092		)
Income (loss) before income tax provision and equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	272,569			(114,687		)	(78,454		)	—			79,428
Income tax expense	22,115			46			6,657			—			28,818
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	(199,844		)	—			—			199,844			—
Net income (loss)	$	50,610		$	(114,733	)	$	(85,111	)	$	199,844		$	50,610
The following is the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors						Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.
Net income (loss)	$	209,014		$	(47,398	)	$	150,914		$	(103,907	)	$	208,623
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges:
Change in unrealized gains and losses	—			—			(1,748		)	—			(1,748		)
Net gains reclassified into earnings	—			—			(376		)	—			(376		)
Net unrealized losses on cash flow hedges	—			—			(2,124		)	—			(2,124		)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,021			(628		)	(1,849		)	—			(1,456		)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,021			(628		)	(3,973		)	—			(3,580		)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	210,035		$	(48,026	)	$	146,941		$	(103,907	)	$	205,043
The following is the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors						Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.
Net income (loss)	$	195,181		$	(74,765	)	$	99,877		$	(25,112	)	$	195,181
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges:
Change in unrealized gains and losses	—			—			(3,468		)	—			(3,468		)
Net gains reclassified into earnings	—			—			7,433			—			7,433
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	—			—			3,965			—			3,965
Foreign currency translation adjustments	128			11			(1,972		)	—			(1,833		)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	128			11			1,993			—			2,132
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	195,309		$	(74,754	)	$	101,870		$	(25,112	)	$	197,313
The following is the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors						Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.
Net income (loss)	$	50,610		$	(114,733	)	$	(85,111	)	$	199,844		$	50,610
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges:
Change in unrealized gains and losses	(6,701		)	—			4,870			—			(1,831		)
Net gains reclassified into earnings	—			—			(6,444		)	—			(6,444		)
Net unrealized losses on cash flow hedges	(6,701		)	—			(1,574		)	—			(8,275		)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(89		)	458			(1,263		)	—			(894		)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(6,790		)	458			(2,837		)	—			(9,169		)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	43,820		$	(114,275	)	$	(87,948	)	$	199,844		$	41,441
The following is the consolidated statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	281,478		$	8,503		$	161,048		$	—		$	451,029
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(44,786		)	(22		)	(7,563		)	—			(52,371		)
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	(44,769		)	140			—			—			(44,629		)
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	70,000			—			—			—			70,000
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(19,555		)	118			(7,563		)	—			(27,000		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	296,250			—			—			—			296,250
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	(300,000		)	—			—			—			(300,000		)
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	(992		)	—			—			—			(992		)
Payment of principal related to capital leases	(1,627		)	—			—			—			(1,627		)
Common stock repurchases	(240,000		)	—			—			—			(240,000		)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	93,771			—			—			—			93,771
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	2,919			—			270			—			3,189
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(149,679		)	—			270			—			(149,409		)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	—			—			(849		)	—			(849		)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	112,244			8,621			152,906			—			273,771
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	284,466			680			428,080			—			713,226
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	396,710		$	9,301		$	580,986		$	—		$	986,997
The following is the consolidated statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	464,097		$	(1,799	)	$	128,572		$	—		$	590,870
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	35			—			—			—			35
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	—			952			—			—			952
Purchases of property and equipment	(62,791		)	—			(10,006		)	—			(72,797		)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(62,756		)	952			(10,006		)	—			(71,810		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payment of principal related to the term loan	(190,000		)	—			—			—			(190,000		)
Payment of principal related to capital leases	(1,866		)	—			—			—			(1,866		)
Common stock repurchases	(130,209		)	—			—			—			(130,209		)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	98,791			—			—			—			98,791
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	5,042			—			99			—			5,141
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(218,242		)	—			99			—			(218,143		)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	—			—			(1,893		)	—			(1,893		)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	183,099			(847		)	116,772			—			299,024
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	101,367			1,527			311,308			—			414,202
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	284,466		$	680		$	428,080		$	—		$	713,226
The following is the consolidated statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011 (in thousands):
	Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
	Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
	Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	436,714		$	(5,852	)	$	18,370		$	—		$	449,232
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of short-term investments	—			(38		)	—			—			(38		)
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	—			1,604			—			—			1,604
Purchases of property and equipment	(86,447		)	(33		)	(10,317		)	—			(96,797		)
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	4,966			(1,061		)	—			—			3,905
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(81,481		)	472			(10,317		)	—			(91,326		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payment of principal related to the term loan	(359,898		)	—			—			—			(359,898		)
Payment of fees related to the term loan	(1,167		)	—			—			—			(1,167		)
Proceeds from term loan	198,950			—			—			—			198,950
Payment of principal related to capital leases	(1,761		)	—			—			—			(1,761		)
Common stock repurchases	(210,698		)	—			—			—			(210,698		)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	97,152			—			—			—			97,152
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	101			—			211			—			312
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(277,321		)	—			211			—			(277,110		)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	—			—			(578		)	—			(578		)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	77,912			(5,380		)	7,686			—			80,218
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	23,455			6,907			303,622			—			333,984
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	101,367		$	1,527		$	311,308		$	—		$	414,202

Quarterly_Summary

Quarterly Summary	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	'
	BROCADE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, INC.
	QUARTERLY SUMMARY
	(Unaudited)
		Three Months Ended
		October 26, 2013		July 27, 2013 (1)		April 27, 2013		January 26, 2013			October 27, 2012		July 28, 2012		April 28, 2012		January 28, 2012
		(In thousands, except per-share and stock price amounts)
	Quarterly Data:
	Net revenues	$	558,800	$	536,551	$	538,784	$	588,729		$	578,357	$	555,332	$	543,439	$	560,642
	Gross margin	$	362,640	$	338,202	$	334,112	$	373,925		$	360,690	$	340,478	$	337,082	$	344,769
	Income from operations	$	83,650	$	74,363	$	57,179	$	93,291		$	86,320	$	70,221	$	51,769	$	69,419
	Net income (loss)	$	64,233	$	118,696	$	46,949	$	(21,255	)	$	54,001	$	43,300	$	39,296	$	58,584
	Per-share amounts:
	Basic	$	0.14	$	0.26	$	0.1	$	(0.05	)	$	0.12	$	0.09	$	0.09	$	0.13
	Diluted	$	0.14	$	0.26	$	0.1	$	(0.05	)	$	0.11	$	0.09	$	0.08	$	0.12
	Shares used in computing
	per-share amounts:
	Basic	444,642		449,446		453,133		454,843			459,333		457,147		457,541		452,494
	Diluted	460,237		461,344		466,919		454,843			474,213		469,571		476,848		468,738
	Sales prices:
	High	$	8.43	$	6.69	$	6.15	$	5.8		$	6.44	$	5.63	$	6.17	$	6.05
	Low	$	6.28	$	5.14	$	5.38	$	5.17		$	4.83	$	4.18	$	5.19	$	4.15
	-1	The quarter ended July 27, 2013, includes the impact of the nonrecurring gain of $76.8 million resulting from the litigation settlement with A10 Networks, Inc.

Valuation_And_Qualifying_Accou

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure	'
	SCHEDULE II
	VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
	Fiscal Years Ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011
		Balance at		Additions		Deductions (1)			Balance at
		Beginning of		Charged to					End of
		Period		Revenues					Period
		(In thousands)
	Allowance for doubtful accounts:
	2013	$	833	$	319	$	(577	)	$	575
	2012	$	1,388	$	1,482	$	(2,037	)	$	833
	2011	$	1,838	$	1,357	$	(1,807	)	$	1,388
	Sales allowances:
	2013	$	9,759	$	8,885	$	(11,323	)	$	7,321
	2012	$	5,011	$	10,947	$	(6,199	)	$	9,759
	2011	$	4,883	$	9,048	$	(8,920	)	$	5,011
	(1)	Deductions related to the allowance for doubtful accounts and sales allowances represent amounts written off against the allowance and recoveries.

Basis_Of_Presentation_Policies

Basis Of Presentation (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Fiscal Period Policy	'
	The fiscal year for the Company is the 52 or 53 weeks ending on the last Saturday in October. As is customary for companies that use the 52/53-week convention, every fifth year contains a 53-week year. Fiscal years 2013, 2012 and 2011 were 52-week fiscal years. The Company’s next 53-week fiscal year will be fiscal year 2014 and its next 14-week quarter will be in the second quarter of fiscal year 2014.
Consolidation Policy	'
	The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Brocade and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements	'
	Use of Estimates in Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements
	The preparation of consolidated financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, sales allowances and programs, allowance for doubtful accounts, stock-based compensation, purchase price allocations, warranty obligations, inventory valuation and purchase commitments, restructuring costs, commissions, facilities lease losses, impairment of goodwill and intangible assets, litigation, income taxes, and investments. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.

Summary_Of_Significant_Account1

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.
Investments and Equity Securities, Policy	'
	Investments and Equity Securities
	Investment securities with an original maturity of more than three months that mature less than one year from the Consolidated Balance Sheet date are considered short-term investments. Investment securities with an original or remaining maturity of one year or more and which the Company has the ability and intent to hold are considered long-term investments. Investments are classified as available-for-sale and are recorded on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.
	Unrealized holding gains and losses related to the Company’s investments are included as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive loss on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of any related tax effect. Realized gains and losses are calculated based on the specific identification method and are included in “Other expense, net” on the Consolidated Statements of Income.
	The Company recognizes an impairment charge when the fair values of its investments have fallen below their cost basis and the decline in fair value is assessed to be other-than-temporary. An other-than-temporary impairment is triggered when there is an intent to sell the security, and it is more likely than not that the security will be required to be sold before recovery, or the Company is not expected to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. The Company also considers various factors in determining whether to recognize an impairment charge, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than the cost basis and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. For impairments involving credit losses, the Company recognizes the credit loss component in earnings and the remainder of the impairment is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss.
	From time to time the Company makes equity investments in non-publicly traded companies. These investments are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and are generally accounted for under the cost method as the Company does not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the respective issuer’s operating and financial policies, nor does it have a liquidation preference that is substantive. The Company monitors its investments in non-publicly traded companies for impairment on a quarterly basis and makes appropriate reductions in carrying values when such impairments are determined to be other-than-temporary. Impairment charges are included in “Other expense, net” on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Factors considered in determining an impairment include, but are not limited to, the current business environment including competition and uncertainty of financial condition, going concern considerations such as the rate at which the issuer company utilizes cash and the issuer company’s ability to obtain additional private financing to fulfill its stated business plan, the need for changes to the issuer company’s existing business model due to changing business environments and its ability to successfully implement necessary changes, and comparable valuations. The carrying value of the Company’s equity investments in non-publicly traded companies at October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, was $7.7 million and $7.0 million, respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy	'
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	The fair value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities, approximate cost because of their short maturities. The fair value of the Company’s investments is primarily determined using quoted market prices for those securities or similar financial instruments.
Derivative Financial Instruments, Policy	'
	Derivative Financial Instruments
	In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates and the exchange rates associated with foreign currencies. The derivatives entered into by the Company qualify for and are designated as foreign currency cash flow hedges.
	The derivatives are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at their respective fair values. Changes in fair values of outstanding cash flow hedges that are highly effective are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss until earnings are affected by the variability of cash flows of the underlying hedged transaction. In most cases, amounts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss will be released to earnings at maturity of the related derivative. The recognition of effective hedge results offsets the gains or losses on the underlying exposure. Cash flows from derivative transactions are classified according to the nature of the risk being hedged.
	The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions. This documentation includes linking all derivatives either to specific assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets or specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis whether the derivatives used in hedging transactions have been highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items and whether those derivatives may be expected to remain highly effective in future periods.
	The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when (i) the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of a hedged item (including hedged items such as firm commitments or forecasted transactions); (ii) the derivative expires or is sold, terminated or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) management determines that designating the derivative as a hedging instrument is no longer appropriate.
	When the Company discontinues hedge accounting, but it continues to be probable that the forecasted transaction will occur in the originally expected period, the gain or loss on the derivative remains in accumulated other comprehensive loss and is reclassified into earnings when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. However, if it is no longer probable that a forecasted transaction will occur by the end of the originally specified time period or within an additional two-month period of time thereafter, the gain or loss that was in accumulated other comprehensive loss will be recognized immediately in earnings. In all situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued and the derivative remains outstanding, the Company will carry the derivative at its fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheet until maturity and will recognize future changes in the fair value in current period earnings. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current period earnings within “Other income (loss), net.” Effectiveness is assessed based on the comparison of current forward rates to the rates established on the Company’s hedges.
Inventory, Policy	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventory costs include material, labor and overhead. The Company records inventory write-downs based on excess and obsolete inventory determined primarily by its forecast of future demand. A majority of the Company’s inventory is located off-site at customers’ hubs, third-party managed service depots and at contract manufacturers’ locations. Cash flows related to the sale of inventories are classified as cash flows from operating activities.
Property and Equipment, Policy	'
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. An estimated useful life of three years is used for computer equipment and four to seven years is used for software based on the nature of the software purchased. Estimated useful lives of up to four years are used for engineering and other equipment, seven years is used for furniture and an estimated useful life of thirty-nine years is used for buildings. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of ten years or the remaining term of the lease.
	Interest costs related to major construction projects are capitalized until the asset is ready for service. Capitalized interest is calculated by multiplying the weighted-average interest rate on the Company’s long-term debt by the qualifying construction costs. Interest capitalized may not exceed gross interest expense for the period. As the qualifying asset is moved to the depreciation and amortization pool, the related capitalized interest is also transferred and is amortized over the useful life of the related asset. No interest costs were capitalized during the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, since the construction of the Company’s campus project was completed in the third quarter of fiscal year 2010.
	Brocade evaluates long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 360-10 Property, Plant and Equipment. Brocade assesses the fair value of the assets based on the undiscounted future cash flow the assets are expected to generate and recognizes an impairment loss when estimated undiscounted future cash flow expected to result from the use of the asset plus net proceeds expected to result from the disposition of the asset, if any, are less than the carrying value of the asset. When Brocade identifies an impairment, Brocade reduces the carrying amount of the asset to its estimated fair value based on a discounted cash flow approach or, when available and appropriate, to comparable market values.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy	'
	Goodwill, Other Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets and Long-lived Intangible Assets
	Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are generated as a result of business combinations. Our indefinite-lived assets are comprised of acquired in-process research and development (“IPRD”) and goodwill. IPRD is an intangible asset accounted as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort.
	During the development period, the Company conducts an IPRD impairment test annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired. Events which might indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, adverse cost factors, deteriorating financial performance, strategic decisions made in response to economic and competitive conditions, the impact of the economic environment on us and our customer base, and/or other relevant events such as changes in management, key personnel, litigations, or customers.
	The Company evaluates goodwill on an annual basis during its second fiscal quarter or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the asset’s implied fair value. Events which might indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, strategic decisions made in response to economic and competitive conditions, the impact of the economic environment on the Company’s customer base, material negative changes in relationships with significant customers, and/or a significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period.
	Long-lived intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is recognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the respective asset. The Company evaluates intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. Examples of such events or circumstances include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, significant changes in the manner of use of acquired assets or the strategy for the Company’s business, significant negative industry or economic trends, and/or a significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period. Impairment is recognized based on the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying value. For additional discussion, see Note 4, “Goodwill and Intangible Assets,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Litigation Costs, Policy	'
	Litigation Costs
	The Company is subject to the possibility of legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company regularly monitors the status of pending legal actions to evaluate both the magnitude and likelihood of any potential losses. An accrual for these potential losses is made when they are probable and the amount of loss, or possible range of loss, can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs related to such potential losses are expensed as incurred. In addition, recoveries are shown as a reduction in litigation costs in the period in which they are realized.
Concentrations	'
	Concentrations
	Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, and accounts receivable. Cash and cash equivalents are primarily maintained at seven major financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may be redeemed upon demand and may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits.
	A majority of the Company’s accounts receivable balance is derived from sales to original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) partners in the computer storage and server industry. As of October 26, 2013, four customers individually accounted for 18%, 12%, 11% and 11% of total accounts receivable, for a combined total of 52% of total accounts receivable. As of October 27, 2012, three customers individually accounted for 16%, 12% and 10%, of total accounts receivable, for a combined total of 38% of total accounts receivable. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally does not require collateral on accounts receivable balances. The Company has established reserves for credit losses, sales allowances, and other allowances.
	For the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012 and October 29, 2011, the same three customers accounted for a combined total of 46% (EMC Corporation (“EMC”) with 18%, Hewlett-Packard Company (“HP”) with 12%, and International Business Machines Corporation (“IBM”) with 16%), 47% (EMC with 16%, HP with 13%, and IBM with 18%) and 43% (EMC with 15%, HP with 13%, and IBM with 15%) of total net revenues, respectively.
	The Company currently relies on single and limited sources for multiple key components used in the manufacture of its products. Additionally, the Company relies on multiple contract manufacturers for the production of its products, including Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., Accton Wireless Broadband Corporation, Motorola, Inc. and Quanta Computer Incorporated (collectively, the contract manufacturers or “CMs”). Although the Company uses standard parts and components for its products where possible, the Company’s CMs currently purchase, on their behalf, several key components used in the manufacture of products from single or limited supplier sources.
Revenue Recognition, Policy	'
	Revenue Recognition
	Product revenue. Substantially all of the Company’s products are integrated with software that is essential to the functionality of the equipment. Additionally, the Company provides unspecified software upgrades and enhancements related to the equipment through its maintenance contracts for most of its products. Product revenue is generally recognized when all of the following criteria have been met:
	•	Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;
	•	Delivery has occurred;
	•	The fee is fixed or determinable; and
	•	Collectability is reasonably assured.
	For newly introduced products, many of the Company’s large OEM customers require a product qualification period during which the Company’s products are tested and approved by the OEM customers for sale to their customers. Revenue recognition and related cost are deferred for shipments to new OEM customers and for shipments of newly introduced products to existing OEM customers until satisfactory evidence of completion of the product qualification has been received from the OEM customer. In addition, revenue from sales to the Company’s distributor customers is recognized in the same period in which the product is actually sold by the distributor (sell-through).
	The Company reduces revenue for estimated sales allowances at the time of shipment and sales programs at the later of revenue recognition or communication of the commitment for sales incentives. Sales allowances are estimated based on historical sales returns. Sales programs are estimated based on approved sales programs versus claims under such sales programs, current trends and the Company’s expectations regarding future activity. In addition, the Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts, which is also accounted for as a reduction in revenue. The Company establishes the allowance for doubtful accounts to ensure accounts receivable are not overstated due to uncollectibility. The Company maintains bad debt reserves based upon the analysis of accounts receivable, historical collection patterns, customer concentrations, customer creditworthiness, current economic trends, changes in customer payment terms and practices, and customer communication. The Company records a specific reserve for individual accounts when it becomes aware of a customer’s likely inability to meet its financial obligations, such as in the case of bankruptcy filings or deterioration in the customer’s operating results or financial position. If circumstances related to customers change, the Company would further adjust estimates of the recoverability of receivables.
	Multiple-element arrangements. The Company’s multiple-element product offerings include networking hardware with embedded software products and support, which are considered separate units of accounting. For certain of the Company’s products, software and non-software components function together to deliver the tangible products’ essential functionality.
	The Company allocates revenue to each element in a multiple-element arrangement based upon their relative selling price. When applying the relative selling price method, the Company determines the selling price for each deliverable using vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of selling price, if it exists, or third-party evidence (“TPE”) of selling price. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exist for a deliverable, the Company uses its best estimate of selling price for that deliverable. Revenue allocated to each element is then recognized when the basic revenue recognition criteria are met for each element.
	The Company determines VSOE based on its normal pricing and discounting practices for the specific product or service when sold separately. In determining VSOE, the Company requires that a substantial majority of the selling prices for a product or service fall within a reasonably narrow pricing range. For post-contract customer support (“PCS”), the Company considers stated renewal rates in determining VSOE.
	In most instances, the Company is not able to establish VSOE for all deliverables in an arrangement with multiple elements. This may be due to the Company infrequently selling each element separately, not pricing products within a narrow range, or only having a limited sales history. When VSOE cannot be established, the Company attempts to establish the selling price for each element based on TPE. TPE is determined based on competitor prices for similar deliverables when sold separately. Generally, the Company’s go-to-market strategy differs from that of its peers and its offerings contain a significant level of customization and differentiation such that the comparable pricing of products with similar functionality cannot be obtained. Furthermore, the Company is unable to reliably determine what similar competitor products’ selling prices are on a stand-alone basis. Therefore, the Company is typically unable to determine TPE.
	When the Company is unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, the Company uses estimated selling price (“ESP”) in its allocation of the arrangement consideration. The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which the Company would transact a sale if the product or service were sold on a stand-alone basis. ESP is generally used for offerings that are not typically sold on a stand-alone basis or for new or highly customized offerings.
	The Company determines ESP for a product by considering multiple factors including, but not limited to, geographies, market conditions, competitive landscape, internal costs, gross margin objectives and pricing practices. The determination of ESP is made through consultation with and formal approval by the Company’s management, taking into consideration the go-to-market strategy.
	The Company regularly reviews VSOE, TPE and ESP and maintains internal controls over the establishment and updates of these estimates. There was no material impact on revenues during the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 nor does the Company expect a material impact in the near term from changes in VSOE, TPE or ESP.
	Services revenue. Services revenue consists of training and maintenance arrangements, including PCS and other professional services. PCS services are offered under renewable, annual fee-based contracts or as part of multiple-element arrangements, and typically include telephone support and upgrades and enhancements to the Company’s operating system software. Revenue related to PCS elements is deferred and recognized ratably over the contractual period. PCS contracts are typically one to three years in length.
	Professional services are offered under hourly or fixed fee-based contracts. Professional services revenue is recognized as services are performed. Training revenue is recognized upon completion of the training.
Warranty Expense, Policy	'
	Warranty Expense
	The Company provides standard warranties on its products ranging from one year to limited lifetime warranties. Estimated future warranty costs are accrued at the time of shipment and charged to cost of revenues based upon historical experience, current trends and the Company’s expectations regarding future experience.
Foreign Currency, Policy	'
	Foreign Currency
	Assets and liabilities of the Company’s international subsidiaries in which the local currency is the functional currency are translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates. Income and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets in the stockholders’ equity section as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Foreign exchange gains and losses for assets and liabilities of the Company’s international subsidiaries in which the functional currency is the U.S. dollar are recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Income.
Software to be Sold, Leased, or Otherwise Marketed, Policy	'
	Eligible software development costs are capitalized upon the establishment of technological feasibility, which is defined as being equivalent to completion of a beta-phase working prototype. Total eligible software development costs have not been material to date.
Internal Use Software, Policy	'
	Costs related to internally developed software and software purchased for internal use, primarily for implementation and upgrade of the Company’s enterprise-wide integrated business information system, are capitalized and included in “Property and equipment, net.” These costs are being depreciated over the estimated useful lives of four to seven years based on the nature of the software purchased.
Advertising Costs, Policy	'
	Advertising Costs
	The Company expenses all advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs were $15.3 million, $17.7 million and $12.1 million for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively.
	During the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012, the Company entered into a multi-year arrangement which includes exchanging certain of the Company’s products and services, with the estimated overall fair value of $16.6 million, for advertising services. The Company is accounting for this transaction based on fair values of products and services surrendered and recognized $7.1 million and $0.3 million of gross operating revenue in the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, respectively. As the advertising has not yet been received, the corresponding $7.4 million advertising prepayment is currently recorded within “Other assets”.
Income Taxes, Policy	'
	Income Taxes
	The Company recognizes income tax expense for the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts, along with net operating loss carryforwards and credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is recognized to the extent that it is more likely than not that the tax benefits will not be realized.
	The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes using a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. The Company classifies the liability for unrecognized tax benefits as current to the extent that the Company anticipates payment (or receipt) of cash within one year. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized in the provision for income taxes. For additional discussion, see Note 15, “Income Taxes,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Computation of Net Income (Loss) per Share, Policy	'
	Computation of Net Income per Share
	Basic net income per-share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, less shares subject to repurchase. Diluted net income per-share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the period that have a dilutive effect on earnings per-share. Potentially dilutive common shares result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options, assumed vesting of outstanding restricted stock units and awards and assumed issuance of stock under the employee stock purchase plan, all using the treasury stock method.
Stock-Based Compensation, Policy	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company accounts for employee equity awards under the fair value method. Accordingly, the Company measures stock-based compensation at the grant date based on the fair value of the award. The fair values of stock options and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) are estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Estimated compensation cost relating to restricted stock units is based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of the grant. The Company records stock-based compensation expense over the twenty-four month offering period in connection with shares issued under its ESPP. The compensation expense for stock-based awards is reduced by an estimate for forfeitures and is recognized over the vesting period of the award under a graded vesting method, except for restricted stock units granted by the Company, which are recognized over the expected term of the award under a straight-line vesting method. For additional discussion, see Note 12, “Stock-Based Compensation,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
	The Company accounts for the tax effects of share-based payment awards using the alternative transition method, which includes simplified methods to establish the beginning balance of the additional paid-in capital pool (“APIC Pool”) related to the tax effects of employee stock-based compensation and to determine the subsequent impact on the APIC Pool and consolidated statement of cash flows of the tax effects of employee stock-based compensation awards.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements or Updates Recently Adopted or That Are Not Yet Effective, Policy	'
	New Accounting Pronouncements or Updates Recently Adopted
	In June 2011 and December 2011, the FASB issued updates to ASC 220 Comprehensive Income (“ASC 220”): Presentation of Comprehensive Income. The amendments from these updates increase the prominence of items reported in other comprehensive income and eliminate the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of equity. The Company adopted these updates in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, presenting the required information in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements or Updates That Are Not Yet Effective
	In February 2013, the FASB issued an update to ASC 220: Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. Under this update, an entity is required to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified in its entirety in the same reporting period. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. This update to ASC 220 should be applied prospectively and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014. The adoption of this update to ASC 220 will not have an impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows. The Company will include additional information required by this update prospectively starting from the first quarter of fiscal year 2014.
	In March 2013, the FASB issued an update to ASC 830 Foreign Currency Matters (“ASC 830”): Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an Investment in a Foreign Entity. Under this update, an entity is required to release any cumulative translation adjustment into net income when an entity ceases to have a controlling financial interest resulting in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity. This update to ASC 830 should be applied prospectively and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. The Company does not expect the adoption of this update to ASC 830 to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued an update to ASC 740 Income Taxes (“ASC 740”): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. Under this update, an entity is required to present an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion thereof, as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except to the extent that these instances are not available at the reporting date. This update to ASC 740 should be applied prospectively and will be adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. The Company does not expect the adoption of this update to ASC 740 to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets1

Goodwill And Intangible Assets Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill Policy	'
	The Company conducts its goodwill impairment test annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount. For the annual goodwill impairment test, the Company uses the income approach, the market approach, or a combination thereof, to determine each reporting unit’s fair value. The income approach provides an estimate of fair value based on discounted expected future cash flows (“DCF”). The market approach provides an estimate of fair value using various prices or market multiples applied to the reporting unit’s operating results and then applying an appropriate control premium. For the fiscal year 2013 annual goodwill impairment test, the Company used a combination of approaches to estimate each reporting unit’s fair value. The Company believed that at the time of impairment testing performed in the second fiscal quarter of 2013, the income approach and the market approach were equally representative of a reporting unit’s fair value.
	Determining the fair value of a reporting unit or an intangible asset requires judgment and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. The Company based its fair value estimates on assumptions it believes to be reasonable, but inherently uncertain. Estimates and assumptions with respect to the determination of the fair value of its reporting units using the income approach include, among other inputs:
	•	The Company’s operating forecasts;
	•	Revenue growth rates; and
	•	Risk-commensurate discount rates and costs of capital.
	The Company’s estimates of revenues and costs are based on historical data, various internal estimates and a variety of external sources, and are developed as part of our regular long-range planning process. The control premium used in market or combined approaches is determined by considering control premiums offered as part of the acquisitions that have occurred in the reporting units’ comparable market segments. Based on the results of the annual goodwill impairment analysis performed during the second fiscal quarter of 2013, the Company determined that no impairment needed to be recorded.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy	'
	Acquired in-process research and development (“IPRD”) is an intangible asset accounted for as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort. While accounted as an indefinite-lived asset, the IPRD intangible asset is subject to testing for impairment annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired. If the research and development effort associated with the IPRD is successfully completed, then the IPRD intangible asset will be amortized over its estimated useful life to be determined at the date the effort is completed.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy	'
	Intangible assets other than goodwill are amortized on a straight-line basis over the following estimated remaining useful lives, unless the Company has determined these lives to be indefinite.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Transfer Policy	'
	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company had no transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy of its assets measured at fair value.

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed1

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Hedging Derivatives	'
	A majority of the Company’s revenue, expense and capital purchasing activities is transacted in U.S. dollars. However, the Company is exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk inherent in conducting business globally in numerous currencies. The Company is primarily exposed to foreign currency fluctuations related to operating expenses denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, of which the most significant to its operations for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, were the Chinese yuan, the euro, the Japanese yen, the Indian rupee, the British pound, the Singapore dollar and the Swiss franc. The Company has established a foreign currency risk management program to protect against the volatility of future cash flows caused by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. This program reduces, but does not always entirely eliminate, the impact of foreign currency exchange rate movements.
	The Company’s foreign currency risk management program includes foreign currency derivatives with cash flow hedge accounting designation that utilizes foreign currency forward and option contracts to hedge exposures to the variability in the U.S. dollar equivalent of anticipated non-U.S.-dollar-denominated cash flows. These instruments generally have a maturity of less than fifteen months. For these derivatives, the Company reports the after-tax gain or loss from the effective portion of the hedge as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in stockholders’ equity and reclassifies it into earnings in the same period in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The tax effect allocated to cash flow hedge-related components of other comprehensive income (loss) was not significant for the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011.
	Effective cash flow hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Ineffective cash flow hedges are included in the Company’s net income as part of “Other income (loss), net.” The amount recorded on ineffective cash flow hedges was not significant for the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011.

Acquisitions_Tables

Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation	'
	The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired (in thousands):
	Assets acquired:
	Cash	$	140
	Accounts receivable	511
	Identifiable intangible assets:
	In-process technology	21,590
	Customer relationships	1,080
	Core/developed technology	1,040
	Non-compete agreements	810
	Trade name	460
	Total identifiable intangible assets	24,980
	Goodwill (1)	25,681
	Other assets	1,017
	Total assets acquired	52,329
	Liabilities assumed:
	Deferred tax liability	3,475
	Deferred revenue	1,354
	Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities	2,731
	Total liabilities assumed	7,560
	Net assets acquired	$	44,769
	(1)	None of the goodwill recognized is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets2

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill	'
	The following table presents a summary of the net carrying value of the Company’s intangible assets (in thousands):
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Indefinite-lived intangible assets:
	Goodwill	$	1,645,437		$	1,624,089
	In-process research and development (1)	21,590			—
	Finite-lived intangible assets:
	Total intangible assets subject to amortization	18,668			109,265
	Total intangible assets	$	1,685,695		$	1,733,354
	-1	Acquired in-process research and development (“IPRD”) is an intangible asset accounted for as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort. While accounted as an indefinite-lived asset, the IPRD intangible asset is subject to testing for impairment annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired. If the research and development effort associated with the IPRD is successfully completed, then the IPRD intangible asset will be amortized over its estimated useful life to be determined at the date the effort is completed. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the IPRD intangible asset was not amortized due to the current stage of the associated research and development effort, which is expected to be completed in fiscal year 2014.
Schedule Of Goodwill Activity By Reportable Segment	'
	The following table summarizes goodwill activity by reportable segment during the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013 and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		SAN			IP Networking			Global		Total
		Products			Products			Services
	Balance at October 29, 2011
	Goodwill	$	176,968		$	1,344,415		$	155,416	$	1,676,799
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(45,832		)	—		(45,832		)
		176,968			1,298,583			155,416		1,630,967
	Tax and other adjustments (1)	(12		)	(6,866		)	—		(6,878		)
	Balance at October 27, 2012
	Goodwill	176,956			1,337,549			155,416		1,669,921
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(45,832		)	—		(45,832		)
		176,956			1,291,717			155,416		1,624,089
	Acquisition	—			25,681			—		25,681
	Tax and other adjustments (1)	(78		)	(4,255		)	—		(4,333		)
	Balance at October 26, 2013
	Goodwill	176,878			1,358,975			155,416		1,691,269
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			(45,832		)	—		(45,832		)
		$	176,878		$	1,313,143		$	155,416	$	1,645,437
	(1)	The goodwill adjustments were primarily a result of tax benefits from the exercise of stock awards of acquired companies.
Schedule Of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'
	The following tables present details of the Company’s finite-lived intangible assets (in thousands, except for weighted-average remaining useful life):
		Gross			Accumulated			Net		Weighted-
		Carrying			Amortization			Carrying		Average
		Value						Value		Remaining
										Useful Life
										(in years)
	October 26, 2013
	Trade name	$	460		$	110		$	350	3.01
	Core/developed technology	192,340			185,254			7,086		0.35
	Customer relationships	287,090			276,473			10,617		0.51
	Non-compete agreements	810			195			615		3.01
	Total finite-lived intangible assets (1)	$	480,700		$	462,032		$	18,668	0.58
		Gross			Accumulated			Net		Weighted-
		Carrying			Amortization			Carrying		Average
		Value						Value		Remaining
										Useful Life
										(in years)
	October 27, 2012
	Trade name	$	100		$	97		$	3	0.17
	Core/developed technology	218,845			173,070			45,775		1.14
	Customer relationships	327,765			264,278			63,487		1.16
	Total finite-lived intangible assets	$	546,710		$	437,445		$	109,265	1.16
	(1)	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, $69.4 million of finite-lived intangible assets became fully amortized and, therefore, were removed from the balance sheet.
Schedule Of Amortization Of Intangible Assets Included On Consolidated Statements Of Operations	'
	The following table presents the amortization of finite-lived intangible assets included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Cost of revenues	$	39,731		$	46,229		$	57,489
	Operating expenses	54,256			59,204			60,713
	Total	$	93,987		$	105,433		$	118,202
Schedule Of Estimated Future Amortization Of Intangible Assets	'
	The following table presents the estimated future amortization of finite-lived intangible assets as of October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Estimated
		Future
		Amortization
	2014	$	16,994
	2015	865
	2016	553
	2017	238
	2018	18
	Total	$	18,668

Restructuring_And_Other_Charge1

Restructuring And Other Charges (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	The following table provides details of the Company’s restructuring and other charges (in thousands):
		Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan									Prior Restructuring Plans
		Severance			Contract Terminations			Lease Loss			Lease Loss			Total
		and Benefits			and Other			Reserve and Related Costs			Reserve and Related Costs
	Restructuring liabilities at October 29, 2011	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	3,952		$	3,952
	Cash payments	—			—			—			(1,334		)	(1,334		)
	Other adjustments, net	—			—			—			(36		)	(36		)
	Restructuring liabilities at October 27, 2012	—			—			—			2,582			2,582
	Restructuring and other charges	20,413			3,981			1,070			—			25,464
	Cash payments	(5,197		)	(3,565		)	(1		)	(788		)	(9,551		)
	Non-cash charges	—			—			(1,069		)	—			(1,069		)
	Restructuring liabilities at October 26, 2013	$	15,216		$	416		$	—		$	1,794		$	17,426
	Current restructuring liabilities at October 26, 2013	$	15,216		$	416		$	—		$	786		$	16,418
	Non-current restructuring liabilities at October 26, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	1,008		$	1,008

Balance_Sheet_Details_Tables

Balance Sheet Details (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Balance Sheet Details [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accounts Receivable	'
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Accounts receivable:
	Accounts receivable	$	257,494		$	243,731
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	(575		)	(833		)
	Sales allowances	(7,321		)	(9,759		)
	Total	$	249,598		$	233,139
Schedule of Inventory	'
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Inventories:
	Raw materials	$	14,048		$	24,240
	Finished goods	31,296			43,939
	Total	$	45,344		$	68,179
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment	'
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Property and equipment, net:
	Computer equipment	$	16,006		$	17,953
	Software	57,186			39,410
	Engineering and other equipment (1)	416,573			409,524
	Furniture and fixtures (1)	29,029			30,516
	Leasehold improvements	24,287			26,306
	Land and building	384,654			384,666
	Subtotal	927,735			908,375
	Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization (1), (2)	(454,795		)	(389,435		)
	Total	$	472,940		$	518,940
	(1)	Engineering and other equipment, furniture and fixtures and accumulated depreciation and amortization include the following amounts under capital leases as of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Cost	$	11,925		$	10,613
	Accumulated depreciation	(5,366		)	(3,647		)
	Total	$	6,559		$	6,966
	(2)	The following table presents the depreciation of property and equipment included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation expense	$	90,127		$	86,785		$	88,150
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets	'
	Engineering and other equipment, furniture and fixtures and accumulated depreciation and amortization include the following amounts under capital leases as of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Cost	$	11,925		$	10,613
	Accumulated depreciation	(5,366		)	(3,647		)
	Total	$	6,559		$	6,966
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities	'
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Other accrued liabilities:
	Income taxes payable	$	11,081		$	15,079
	Accrued warranty	8,632			14,453
	Inventory purchase commitments	4,436			4,271
	Accrued sales programs	25,752			24,801
	Accrued interest	10,056			12,011
	Others	20,382			20,670
	Total	$	80,339		$	91,285

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value	'
	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2013 were as follows (in thousands):
				Fair Value Measurements Using
		Balance as of October 26, 2013		Quoted Prices in		Significant  Other		Significant
				Active Markets		Observable		Unobservable
				For Identical		Inputs		Inputs
				Instruments		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
				(Level 1)
	Assets:
	Money market funds (1)	$	431,750	$	431,750	$	—	$	—
	Derivative assets	1,814		—		1,814		—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	433,564	$	431,750	$	1,814	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Derivative liabilities	$	1,441	$	—	$	1,441	$	—
	Total liabilities measured at fair value	$	1,441	$	—	$	1,441	$	—
	(1)	Money market funds are reported within “Cash and cash equivalents” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 27, 2012 were as follows (in thousands):
				Fair Value Measurements Using
		Balance as of October 27, 2012		Quoted Prices in		Significant  Other		Significant
				Active Markets		Observable		Unobservable
				For Identical		Inputs		Inputs
				Instruments		(Level 2)		(Level 3)
				(Level 1)
	Assets:
	Money market funds (1)	$	308,960	$	308,960	$	—	$	—
	Derivative assets	$	2,941	$	—	$	2,941	$	—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	311,901	$	308,960	$	2,941	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Derivative liabilities	$	296	$	—	$	296	$	—
	Total liabilities measured at fair value	$	296	$	—	$	296	$	—
	(1)	Money market funds are reported within “Cash and cash equivalents” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Borrowings_Tables

Borrowings (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments	'
	The following table provides details of the Company’s long-term debt (in thousands, except years and percentages):
					26-Oct-13				27-Oct-12
			Maturity	Stated Annual Interest Rate	Amount		Effective Interest Rate		Amount		Effective Interest Rate
	Senior Secured Notes:
	2018 Notes		2013	6.63%	$	—	—	%	$	300,000	7.05	%
	2020 Notes		2020	6.88%	300,000		7.26	%	300,000		7.26	%
	Senior Unsecured Notes:
	2023 Notes		2023	4.63%	300,000		4.83	%	—		—	%
	Capital lease obligations		2016	5.67%	4,600		5.5	%	4,916		5.8	%
	Total long-term debt				604,600				604,916
	Less:
	Unamortized discount				5,396				3,736
	Current portion of long-term debt				2,996				1,977
	Total long-term debt, net of current portion				$	596,208			$	599,203
Schedule Of Debt Maturities	'
	As of October 26, 2013, our aggregate debt maturities based on outstanding principal were as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Principal
		Balances
	2014	$	2,996
	2015	1,284
	2016	320
	2017	—
	2018	—
	Thereafter	600,000
	Total	$	604,600

Commitments_And_Contingencies_

Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Rent Expense	'
	The following table presents the composition of net rent expense included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Rent expense	$	26,199		$	25,867		$	26,576
	Less: Sublease income	(6,834		)	(6,606		)	(5,643		)
		$	19,365		$	19,261		$	20,933
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases	'
	Future minimum lease payments under all non-cancellable operating leases as of October 26, 2013, excluding the contractual sublease income of $22.7 million, are as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Operating
		Leases
	2014	$	22,253
	2015	17,040
	2016	15,313
	2017	6,889
	2018	2,884
	Thereafter	5,876
	Total minimum lease payments	$	70,255
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases	'
	Future minimum lease payments under all non-cancellable capital leases as of October 26, 2013, are as follows (in thousands):
	Fiscal Year	Capital
		Leases
	2014	$	3,215
	2015	1,329
	2016	326
	2017	—
	Total minimum lease payments	4,870
	Less: Amount representing interest	(270		)
	Present value of net minimum lease payments	$	4,600
Schedule Of Accrued Liability For Estimated Future Warranty Costs	'
	The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s accrued liability for estimated future warranty costs during the fiscal years ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,
		2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	14,453		$	11,298
	Liabilities accrued for warranties issued during the period	4,969			5,929
	Warranty claims paid and used during the period	(8,213		)	(575		)
	Changes in liability for pre-existing warranties during the period	(2,577		)	(2,199		)
	Ending balance	$	8,632		$	14,453

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed2

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Net Gains (Losses) Related To The Effective Portion Of Foreign Currency Derivatives	'
	Net gains (losses) relating to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives recorded in the consolidated statements of income are as follows (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		26-Oct-13			27-Oct-12			29-Oct-11
	Cost of revenues	$	98		$	(1,043	)	$	882
	Research and development	(60		)	(1,094		)	496
	Sales and marketing	356			(5,704		)	5,498
	General and administrative	31			(510		)	416
	Total	$	425		$	(8,351	)	$	7,292
Schedule Of Total Gross Notional Amounts, Presented By Currency	'
	Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency, are as follows (in thousands):
		Derivatives Designated						Derivatives Not Designated
		as Hedging Instruments						as Hedging Instruments
	In United States dollars	October 26, 2013			October 27, 2012			October 26, 2013		October 27, 2012
	Euro	$	16,012		$	43,357		$	25,478	$	—
	British pound	25,053			20,499			—		—
	Japanese yen	16,172			3,776			—		12,068
	Indian rupee	17,444			16,046			—		—
	Singapore dollar	12,867			12,918			—		—
	Swiss franc	11,066			8,575			—		—
	Total	$	98,614		$	105,171		$	25,478	$	12,068

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Equity Compensation Plans	'
	The following table summarizes information with respect to shares of the Company’s common stock that may be issued under the Company’s existing equity compensation plans as of October 26, 2013 (in thousands, except per-share amounts):
	Plan Category	A				B				C
										Number of Securities
										Remaining Available
		Number of Securities								for Future Issuance
		to be Issued				Weighted-Average				Under Equity
		upon Exercise of				Exercise Price of				Compensation Plans
		Outstanding Options,				Outstanding Options,				(Excludes Securities
		Warrants and Rights				Warrants and Rights				Reflected in Column A)
	Equity compensation plans approved by stockholders (1)	9,686		(3)		$	6.51			56,756		(4)
	Equity compensation plans not approved by stockholders (2)	2,875		(5)		$	5.12			—
	Total	12,561				$	6.19			56,756
	(1)	Primarily consist of the 2009 ESPP, the 2009 and 1999 Director Plans, and the 2009 and 1999 Stock Plans.
	(2)	Consist solely of the 1999 NSO Plan described in Note 11, “Employee Compensation Plans,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and Foundry’s 2000 NSO Plan, which was assumed in connection with our acquisition of Foundry.
	(3)	Amount excludes purchase rights accrued under the 2009 ESPP. As of October 26, 2013, the 2009 ESPP had a stockholder-approved reserve of 65.0 million shares, of which 27.9 million shares were available for future issuance.
	(4)	Amount consists of shares available for future issuance under the 2009 ESPP, the 2009 Director Plan and the 2009 Stock Plan.
	(5)	A substantial number of shares were granted in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013. Information relating to equity compensation plans is set forth in Note 11, “Employee Compensation Plans,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Stock-Based Compensation Expense Included In Line Items Of Consolidated Statements Of Operations	'
	Stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, was included in the following line items on the Consolidated Statements of Income as follows (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013				Fiscal Year Ended October 27, 2012				Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2011
	Cost of revenues	$	14,519			$	15,433			$	15,607
	Research and development	17,509				17,952				18,959
	Sales and marketing	29,425				33,257				36,068
	General and administrative	12,165				10,527				12,442
	Total stock-based compensation	$	73,618			$	77,169			$	83,076
Stock-Based Compensation Expense By Grant Type	'
	The following table presents stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, by grant type (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013				Fiscal Year Ended October 27, 2012				Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2011
	Stock options	$	2,581			$	1,079			$	3,483
	Restricted stock units (“RSUs”)	50,522				56,791				55,750
	Employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”)	20,515				19,299				23,843
	Total stock-based compensation	$	73,618			$	77,169			$	83,076
Stock-Based Compensation, Unrecognized Compensation Expense And Weighted-Average Period	'
	The following table presents unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, of the Company’s equity compensation plans as of October 26, 2013, which is expected to be recognized over the following weighted-average periods (in thousands, except for weighted-average period):
		Unrecognized				Weighted-
		Compensation				Average Period
		Expense				(in years)
	Stock options	$	3,565			1.38
	RSUs	$	86,956			2.02
	ESPP	$	6,270			0.88
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	'
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected dividend yield	0	%		0	%		0	%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.6 - 1.7%			0.1 - 0.8%			0.1 - 0.6%
	Expected volatility	39.9 - 44.9%			48.8 - 56.5%			50.3 - 61.9%
	Expected term (in years)	5.7			4.7			3.9
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	'
	A summary of stock option activity under the equity compensation plans for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, is presented as follows:
		Shares			Weighted-Average				Weighted-Average				Weighted-Average	Aggregate
		(in  thousands)			Exercise Price				Grant Date Fair Value				Remaining	Intrinsic
													Contractual Term	Value
													(in years)	(in thousands)
	Outstanding as of October 30, 2010	71,666			$	4.82							2.58	$	146,199
	Granted	243			5.47				$	2.23
	Exercised	(16,814	)		3.48									46,047
	Forfeited or expired	(4,330	)		9.03
	Outstanding as of October 29, 2011	50,765			4.91								1.98	35,494
	Granted	160			5.55				$	2.39
	Exercised	(16,993	)		3.39									36,498
	Forfeited or expired	(4,435	)		7.34
	Outstanding as of October 27, 2012	29,497			5.43								1.61	26,077
	Granted	2,875			5.64				$	2.34
	Exercised	(13,149	)		3.99									32,324
	Forfeited or expired	(6,662	)		6.9
	Outstanding as of October 26, 2013	12,561			6.19								2.37	24,784
	Vested and expected to vest as of October 26, 2013	12,384			$	6.21							2.32	$	24,393
	Exercisable and vested as of:
	26-Oct-13	9,586			$	6.37							1.2	$	18,300
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions	'
	The fair value of the option component of Brocade ESPP shares was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following weighted-average assumptions:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	Expected dividend yield	0	%		0	%		0	%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.2	%		0.2	%		0.6	%
	Expected volatility	39.5	%		52.5	%		65.5	%
	Expected term (in years)	1.3			1.5			1.1
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity	'
	A summary of the changes in restricted stock units outstanding under Brocade’s equity compensation plans during the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, is presented as follows:
		Shares			Weighted-Average
		(in  thousands)			Grant Date  Fair Value
	Nonvested as of October 30, 2010	28,171			$	4.32
	Granted	12,754			5.68
	Vested	(13,434	)		5.82
	Forfeited	(4,010	)		6.37
	Nonvested as of October 29, 2011	23,481			3.85
	Granted	11,166			4.97
	Vested	(9,597	)		4.82
	Forfeited	(3,054	)		5.92
	Nonvested as of October 27, 2012	21,996			3.71
	Granted	11,518			5.75
	Vested	(7,401	)		5.69
	Forfeited	(3,352	)		5.39
	Nonvested as of October 26, 2013	22,761			3.85
	Vested and expected to vest as of October 26, 2013	19,565			$	3.85

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Tabl

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign	'
	The domestic and international components of income (loss) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, are presented as follows (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,				October 27,				October 29,
		2013				2012				2011 (1)
	United States	$	176,536			$	115,736			$	(42,118	)
	International	153,925				108,665				121,546
	Total	$	330,461			$	224,401			$	79,428
	(1)	Excludes the impact of repatriation of $200.0 million from offshore operations to the United States.
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	'
	The income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, consisted of the following (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,				October 27,				October 29,
		2013				2012				2011
	U.S. federal taxes:
	Current	$	(13,666	)		$	(11,750	)		$	774
	Deferred	46,313				33,981				28,111
	Total U.S. federal taxes	32,647				22,231				28,885
	State taxes:
	Current	8,091				613				1,250
	Deferred	78,106				(2,412		)		(9,187		)
	Total state taxes	86,197				(1,799		)		(7,937		)
	Non-U.S. taxes:
	Current	2,837				8,770				7,854
	Deferred	157				18				16
	Total non-U.S. taxes	2,994				8,788				7,870
	Total	$	121,838			$	29,220			$	28,818
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	'
	The difference between the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate and the Company’s effective tax rate for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, consisted of the following:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,			October 27,			October 29,
		2013			2012			2011
	U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State taxes, net of federal tax benefit	4.1			3.8			3.3
	Foreign income taxed at other than U.S. rates	(17.6	)		(17.7	)		(48.2	)
	Stock-based compensation	1.9			3.5			11.8
	Research and development credit	(5.6	)		(3.5	)		(17.6	)
	Permanent items	0.3			0.3			1.2
	Change in liabilities for uncertain tax positions	(5.1	)		(6.5	)		2.5
	Repatriation from offshore operations	—			—			62.6
	Audit settlement and reinstated tax credit	1.3			(2.9	)		(11.7	)
	Change in valuation allowance	23.7			—			—
	Other	(1.1	)		1			(2.6	)
	Effective tax rate	36.9	%		13	%		36.3	%
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	The components of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities for the years ended October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012, are presented as follows (in thousands):
		October 26,				October 27,
		2013				2012
	Net operating loss carryforwards	$	10,525			$	63,750
	Stock-based compensation expense	17,664				22,582
	Tax credit carryforwards	141,975				145,688
	Reserves and accruals	63,765				94,755
	Capitalized research and development expenditures	621				3,232
	Net unrealized losses on investments	396				468
	Gross deferred tax assets	234,946				330,475
	Less: Valuation allowance	(81,116		)		(22,269		)
	Total deferred tax assets	153,830				308,206
	Acquired intangibles and goodwill	(22,307		)		(50,266		)
	Fixed assets	(29,878		)		(28,110		)
	Other	(2,042		)		(2,116		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(54,227		)		(80,492		)
	Total net deferred tax assets	$	99,603			$	227,714
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies	'
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of total gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding accrued net interest and penalties, is as follows (in thousands):
		October 26,				October 27,
		2013				2012
	Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning balance	$	119,253			$	149,430
	Gross increases for tax positions taken in prior periods	3,472				797
	Gross decreases for tax positions taken in prior periods	(12,970		)		(26,001		)
	Gross increases for tax positions taken in current period	14,875				6,633
	Changes due to settlements with taxing authorities	(9,442		)		(6,771		)
	Reductions resulting from lapses of statutes of limitations	(2,709		)		(4,835		)
	Unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance	$	112,479			$	119,253

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Financial Information By Reportable Segment	'
	Summarized financial information by reportable segment for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, based on the internal management reporting system, is as follows (in thousands):
		SAN		IP Networking		Global Services		Total
		Products		Products
	Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013
	Net revenues	$	1,318,509	$	552,058	$	352,297	$	2,222,864
	Cost of revenues	355,388		302,974		155,623		813,985
	Gross margin	$	963,121	$	249,084	$	196,674	$	1,408,879
	Fiscal Year Ended October 27, 2012
	Net revenues	$	1,356,099	$	534,757	$	346,914	$	2,237,770
	Cost of revenues	362,608		327,248		164,895		854,751
	Gross margin	$	993,491	$	207,509	$	182,019	$	1,383,019
	Fiscal Year Ended October 29, 2011
	Net revenues	$	1,237,994	$	551,820	$	357,628	$	2,147,442
	Cost of revenues	356,013		321,183		186,712		863,908
	Gross margin	$	881,981	$	230,637	$	170,916	$	1,283,534
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas	'
	Geographic revenue and property and equipment information for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011 is presented below (in thousands):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,		October 27,		October 29,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net revenues:
	United States	$	1,351,242	$	1,414,390	$	1,313,302
	International
	Europe, the Middle East and Africa (1)	552,734		493,979		502,999
	Asia Pacific	181,461		186,244		212,636
	Japan	97,259		99,887		75,542
	Canada, Central and South America	40,168		43,270		42,963
	Total international net revenues	871,622		823,380		834,140
	Total net revenues	$	2,222,864	$	2,237,770	$	2,147,442
	(1)	Includes net revenues of $339.1 million, $259.2 million and $257.5 million for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively, relating to the Netherlands.
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,		October 27,		October 29,
		2013		2012		2011
	Property and equipment, net:
	United States	$	457,622	$	500,744	$	515,940
	International	15,318		18,196		16,444
	Total property and equipment, net	$	472,940	$	518,940	$	532,384

Net_Income_Per_Share_Tables

Net Income Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Calculation Of Basic And Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share	'
	The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted net income per-share (in thousands, except per-share amounts):
		Fiscal Year Ended
		October 26,		October 27,		October 29,
		2013		2012		2011
	Basic net income per-share
	Net income	$	208,623	$	195,181	$	50,610
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income per-share	450,516		456,629		474,259
	Basic net income per-share	$	0.46	$	0.43	$	0.11
	Diluted net income per-share
	Net income	$	208,623	$	195,181	$	50,610
	Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income per-share	450,516		456,629		474,259
	Dilutive potential common shares in the form of stock options	3,472		7,846		13,654
	Dilutive potential common shares in the form of other share-based awards	9,717		7,868		9,117
	Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income per-share	463,705		472,343		497,030
	Diluted net income per-share	$	0.45	$	0.41	$	0.1
	Antidilutive potential common shares in the form of (1)
	Stock options	11,868		16,402		21,905
	Other share-based awards	167		570		3,075
	(1)	These amounts are excluded from the computation of diluted net income per-share.

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub1

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet	'
	The following is the consolidated balance sheet as of October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Assets
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	396,710		$	9,301		$	580,986		$	—		$	986,997
	Accounts receivable, net	159,436			328			89,834			—			249,598
	Inventories	40,072			—			5,272			—			45,344
	Intercompany receivables	—			464,443			—			(464,443		)	—
	Other current assets	127,709			7			11,395			1,753			140,864
	Total current assets	723,927			474,079			687,487			(462,690		)	1,422,803
	Property and equipment, net	457,054			567			15,319			—			472,940
	Investment in subsidiaries	1,026,247			—			—			(1,026,247		)	—
	Other non-current assets	1,626,031			95,624			3,993			—			1,725,648
	Total assets	$	3,833,259		$	570,270		$	706,799		$	(1,488,937	)	$	3,621,391
	Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
	Current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	$	68,190		$	28		$	20,000		$	—		$	88,218
	Current portion of long-term debt	2,996			—			—			—			2,996
	Intercompany payables	409,590			—			54,853			(464,443		)	—
	Other current liabilities	335,261			7,075			125,360			1,753			469,449
	Total current liabilities	816,037			7,103			200,213			(462,690		)	560,663
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	596,208			—			—			—			596,208
	Other non-current liabilities	74,201			—			43,506			—			117,707
	Total liabilities	1,486,446			7,103			243,719			(462,690		)	1,274,578
	Total stockholders’ equity	2,346,813			563,167			463,080			(1,026,247		)	2,346,813
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,833,259		$	570,270		$	706,799		$	(1,488,937	)	$	3,621,391
	The following is the consolidated balance sheet as of October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Assets
	Current assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	284,466		$	680		$	428,080		$	—		$	713,226
	Accounts receivable, net	150,367			(1,847		)	84,619			—			233,139
	Inventories	55,084			—			13,095			—			68,179
	Intercompany receivables	—			478,133			—			(478,133		)	—
	Other current assets	124,690			514			15,606			225			141,035
	Total current assets	614,607			477,480			541,400			(477,908		)	1,155,579
	Property and equipment, net	500,530			213			18,197			—			518,940
	Investment in subsidiaries	871,157			—			—			(871,157		)	—
	Other non-current assets	1,814,729			90,766			1,247			—			1,906,742
	Total assets	$	3,801,023		$	568,459		$	560,844		$	(1,349,065	)	$	3,581,261
	Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
	Current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	$	92,661		$	—		$	24,689		$	—		$	117,350
	Current portion of long-term debt	2,226			(249		)	—			—			1,977
	Intercompany payables	434,981			—			43,152			(478,133		)	—
	Other current liabilities	346,959			7,628			136,329			225			491,141
	Total current liabilities	876,827			7,379			204,170			(477,908		)	610,468
	Long-term debt, net of current portion	599,203			—			—			—			599,203
	Other non-current liabilities	89,173			2,429			44,168			—			135,770
	Total liabilities	1,565,203			9,808			248,338			(477,908		)	1,345,441
	Total stockholders’ equity	2,235,820			558,651			312,506			(871,157		)	2,235,820
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,801,023		$	568,459		$	560,844		$	(1,349,065	)	$	3,581,261
Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Income	'
	The following is the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Revenues	$	1,347,055		$	4,257		$	871,552		$	—		$	2,222,864
	Intercompany revenues	25,507			—			22,123			(47,630		)	—
	Total net revenues	1,372,562			4,257			893,675			(47,630		)	2,222,864
	Cost of revenues	534,699			38,991			232,807			7,488			813,985
	Intercompany cost of revenues	(58,050		)	—			105,680			(47,630		)	—
	Total cost of revenues	476,649			38,991			338,487			(40,142		)	813,985
	Gross margin (loss)	895,913			(34,734		)	555,188			(7,488		)	1,408,879
	Operating expenses	826,239			34,175			247,470			(7,488		)	1,100,396
	Intercompany operating expenses (income)	(127,997		)	(22,443		)	150,440			—			—
	Total operating expenses	698,242			11,732			397,910			(7,488		)	1,100,396
	Income (loss) from operations	197,671			(46,466		)	157,278			—			308,483
	Other income (expense)	25,481			258			(3,370		)	(391		)	21,978
	Income (loss) before income tax provision and equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	223,152			(46,208		)	153,908			(391		)	330,461
	Income tax expense	117,654			1,190			2,994			—			121,838
	Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	103,516			—			—			(103,516		)	—
	Net income (loss)	$	209,014		$	(47,398	)	$	150,914		$	(103,907	)	$	208,623
	The following is the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Revenues	$	1,409,705		$	4,685		$	823,380		$	—		$	2,237,770
	Intercompany revenues	44,152			—			21,709			(65,861		)	—
	Total net revenues	1,453,857			4,685			845,089			(65,861		)	2,237,770
	Cost of revenues	559,835			49,935			234,889			10,092			854,751
	Intercompany cost of revenues	(35,070		)	—			100,931			(65,861		)	—
	Total cost of revenues	524,765			49,935			335,820			(55,769		)	854,751
	Gross margin (loss)	929,092			(45,250		)	509,269			(10,092		)	1,383,019
	Operating expenses	827,318			56,838			231,226			(10,092		)	1,105,290
	Intercompany operating expenses (income)	(138,197		)	(27,319		)	165,516			—			—
	Total operating expenses	689,121			29,519			396,742			(10,092		)	1,105,290
	Income (loss) from operations	239,971			(74,769		)	112,527			—			277,729
	Other income (expense)	(49,470		)	4			(3,862		)	—			(53,328		)
	Income (loss) before income tax provision and equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	190,501			(74,765		)	108,665			—			224,401
	Income tax expense	20,432			—			8,788			—			29,220
	Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	25,112			—			—			(25,112		)	—
	Net income (loss)	$	195,181		$	(74,765	)	$	99,877		$	(25,112	)	$	195,181
	The following is the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Revenues	$	1,285,732		$	27,569		$	834,141		$	—		$	2,147,442
	Intercompany revenues	88,063			1,753			35,980			(125,796		)	—
	Total net revenues	1,373,795			29,322			870,121			(125,796		)	2,147,442
	Cost of revenues	531,162			85,540			233,448			13,758			863,908
	Intercompany cost of revenues	(2,263		)	—			128,059			(125,796		)	—
	Total cost of revenues	528,899			85,540			361,507			(112,038		)	863,908
	Gross margin (loss)	844,896			(56,218		)	508,614			(13,758		)	1,283,534
	Operating expenses	821,018			76,645			222,109			(13,758		)	1,106,014
	Intercompany operating expenses (income)	(138,789		)	(25,694		)	164,483			—			—
	Total operating expenses	682,229			50,951			386,592			(13,758		)	1,106,014
	Income (loss) from operations	162,667			(107,169		)	122,022			—			177,520
	Other expense	109,902			(7,518		)	(200,476		)	—			(98,092		)
	Income (loss) before income tax provision and equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	272,569			(114,687		)	(78,454		)	—			79,428
	Income tax expense	22,115			46			6,657			—			28,818
	Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	(199,844		)	—			—			199,844			—
	Net income (loss)	$	50,610		$	(114,733	)	$	(85,111	)	$	199,844		$	50,610
Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Comprehensive Income	'
	The following is the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors						Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.
	Net income (loss)	$	209,014		$	(47,398	)	$	150,914		$	(103,907	)	$	208,623
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
	Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges:
	Change in unrealized gains and losses	—			—			(1,748		)	—			(1,748		)
	Net gains reclassified into earnings	—			—			(376		)	—			(376		)
	Net unrealized losses on cash flow hedges	—			—			(2,124		)	—			(2,124		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,021			(628		)	(1,849		)	—			(1,456		)
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,021			(628		)	(3,973		)	—			(3,580		)
	Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	210,035		$	(48,026	)	$	146,941		$	(103,907	)	$	205,043
	The following is the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors						Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.
	Net income (loss)	$	195,181		$	(74,765	)	$	99,877		$	(25,112	)	$	195,181
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
	Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges:
	Change in unrealized gains and losses	—			—			(3,468		)	—			(3,468		)
	Net gains reclassified into earnings	—			—			7,433			—			7,433
	Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	—			—			3,965			—			3,965
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	128			11			(1,972		)	—			(1,833		)
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	128			11			1,993			—			2,132
	Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	195,309		$	(74,754	)	$	101,870		$	(25,112	)	$	197,313
	The following is the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors						Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.
	Net income (loss)	$	50,610		$	(114,733	)	$	(85,111	)	$	199,844		$	50,610
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
	Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges:
	Change in unrealized gains and losses	(6,701		)	—			4,870			—			(1,831		)
	Net gains reclassified into earnings	—			—			(6,444		)	—			(6,444		)
	Net unrealized losses on cash flow hedges	(6,701		)	—			(1,574		)	—			(8,275		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(89		)	458			(1,263		)	—			(894		)
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(6,790		)	458			(2,837		)	—			(9,169		)
	Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	43,820		$	(114,275	)	$	(87,948	)	$	199,844		$	41,441
Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Cash Flows	'
	The following is the consolidated statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Net cash provided by operating activities	$	281,478		$	8,503		$	161,048		$	—		$	451,029
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Purchases of property and equipment	(44,786		)	(22		)	(7,563		)	—			(52,371		)
	Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	(44,769		)	140			—			—			(44,629		)
	Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	70,000			—			—			—			70,000
	Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(19,555		)	118			(7,563		)	—			(27,000		)
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	296,250			—			—			—			296,250
	Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	(300,000		)	—			—			—			(300,000		)
	Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	(992		)	—			—			—			(992		)
	Payment of principal related to capital leases	(1,627		)	—			—			—			(1,627		)
	Common stock repurchases	(240,000		)	—			—			—			(240,000		)
	Proceeds from issuance of common stock	93,771			—			—			—			93,771
	Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	2,919			—			270			—			3,189
	Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(149,679		)	—			270			—			(149,409		)
	Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	—			—			(849		)	—			(849		)
	Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	112,244			8,621			152,906			—			273,771
	Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	284,466			680			428,080			—			713,226
	Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	396,710		$	9,301		$	580,986		$	—		$	986,997
	The following is the consolidated statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	464,097		$	(1,799	)	$	128,572		$	—		$	590,870
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	35			—			—			—			35
	Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	—			952			—			—			952
	Purchases of property and equipment	(62,791		)	—			(10,006		)	—			(72,797		)
	Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(62,756		)	952			(10,006		)	—			(71,810		)
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Payment of principal related to the term loan	(190,000		)	—			—			—			(190,000		)
	Payment of principal related to capital leases	(1,866		)	—			—			—			(1,866		)
	Common stock repurchases	(130,209		)	—			—			—			(130,209		)
	Proceeds from issuance of common stock	98,791			—			—			—			98,791
	Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	5,042			—			99			—			5,141
	Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(218,242		)	—			99			—			(218,143		)
	Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	—			—			(1,893		)	—			(1,893		)
	Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	183,099			(847		)	116,772			—			299,024
	Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	101,367			1,527			311,308			—			414,202
	Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	284,466		$	680		$	428,080		$	—		$	713,226
	The following is the consolidated statement of cash flows for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2011 (in thousands):
		Brocade			Subsidiary			Non-			Consolidating			Total
		Communications			Guarantors			Guarantor			Adjustments
		Systems, Inc.						Subsidiaries
	Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	436,714		$	(5,852	)	$	18,370		$	—		$	449,232
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Purchases of short-term investments	—			(38		)	—			—			(38		)
	Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	—			1,604			—			—			1,604
	Purchases of property and equipment	(86,447		)	(33		)	(10,317		)	—			(96,797		)
	Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	4,966			(1,061		)	—			—			3,905
	Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(81,481		)	472			(10,317		)	—			(91,326		)
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Payment of principal related to the term loan	(359,898		)	—			—			—			(359,898		)
	Payment of fees related to the term loan	(1,167		)	—			—			—			(1,167		)
	Proceeds from term loan	198,950			—			—			—			198,950
	Payment of principal related to capital leases	(1,761		)	—			—			—			(1,761		)
	Common stock repurchases	(210,698		)	—			—			—			(210,698		)
	Proceeds from issuance of common stock	97,152			—			—			—			97,152
	Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	101			—			211			—			312
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(277,321		)	—			211			—			(277,110		)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	—			—			(578		)	—			(578		)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	77,912			(5,380		)	7,686			—			80,218
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	23,455			6,907			303,622			—			333,984
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	101,367		$	1,527		$	311,308		$	—		$	414,202

Quarterly_Summary_Tables

Quarterly Summary (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	'
	BROCADE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, INC.
	QUARTERLY SUMMARY
	(Unaudited)
		Three Months Ended
		October 26, 2013		July 27, 2013 (1)		April 27, 2013		January 26, 2013			October 27, 2012		July 28, 2012		April 28, 2012		January 28, 2012
		(In thousands, except per-share and stock price amounts)
	Quarterly Data:
	Net revenues	$	558,800	$	536,551	$	538,784	$	588,729		$	578,357	$	555,332	$	543,439	$	560,642
	Gross margin	$	362,640	$	338,202	$	334,112	$	373,925		$	360,690	$	340,478	$	337,082	$	344,769
	Income from operations	$	83,650	$	74,363	$	57,179	$	93,291		$	86,320	$	70,221	$	51,769	$	69,419
	Net income (loss)	$	64,233	$	118,696	$	46,949	$	(21,255	)	$	54,001	$	43,300	$	39,296	$	58,584
	Per-share amounts:
	Basic	$	0.14	$	0.26	$	0.1	$	(0.05	)	$	0.12	$	0.09	$	0.09	$	0.13
	Diluted	$	0.14	$	0.26	$	0.1	$	(0.05	)	$	0.11	$	0.09	$	0.08	$	0.12
	Shares used in computing
	per-share amounts:
	Basic	444,642		449,446		453,133		454,843			459,333		457,147		457,541		452,494
	Diluted	460,237		461,344		466,919		454,843			474,213		469,571		476,848		468,738
	Sales prices:
	High	$	8.43	$	6.69	$	6.15	$	5.8		$	6.44	$	5.63	$	6.17	$	6.05
	Low	$	6.28	$	5.14	$	5.38	$	5.17		$	4.83	$	4.18	$	5.19	$	4.15

Summary_Of_Significant_Account2

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Property and Equipment Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
Computer equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'3 years
Software | Minimum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'4 years
Software | Maximum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'7 years
Engineering and other equipment | Maximum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'4 years
Furniture and fixtures	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'7 years
Leasehold improvements | Maximum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'10 years
Building and Building Improvements	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	'39 years

Summary_Of_Significant_Account3

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Concentration of Risk Narrative)(Details) (Customer Concentration Risk)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
	customer
Accounts Receivable	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Number Of Customers Included In Concentration Disclosures	4	3	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	52.00%	38.00%	'
Accounts Receivable | Major Customer One	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	18.00%	16.00%	'
Accounts Receivable | Major Customer Two	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	12.00%	12.00%	'
Accounts Receivable | Major Customer Three	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	11.00%	10.00%	'
Accounts Receivable | Major Customer Four	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	11.00%	'	'
Sales Revenue	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Number Of Customers Included In Concentration Disclosures	3	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	46.00%	47.00%	43.00%
Sales Revenue | EMC Corporation	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	18.00%	16.00%	15.00%
Sales Revenue | Hewlett Packard Corporation	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	12.00%	13.00%	13.00%
Sales Revenue | International Business Machines Corporation	'	'	'
Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk, Percentage	16.00%	18.00%	15.00%

Summary_Of_Significant_Account4

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Nonmonetary Transactions Narrative) (Details) (Exchange of product held-for-sale for advertising services, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Exchange of product held-for-sale for advertising services	'	'
Nonmonetary Transaction	'	'
Basis of accounting for assets transferred	'The Company is accounting for this transaction based on fair values of products and services surrendered	'
Estimated overall fair value of barter transaction	'	$16.60
Gross operating revenue recognized	7.1	0.3
Prepaid advertising	$7.40	'

Summary_Of_Significant_Account5

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Advertising expense	$15.30	$17.70	$12.10
Investments in non-publicly traded companies	$7.70	$7	'

Acquisitions_Schedule_of_Purch

Acquisitions (Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation) (Details) (Vyatta, USD $)	Nov. 09, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation	'
Cash	$140
Accounts receivable	511
Identifiable intangible assets:	24,980
Goodwill (1)	25,681	[1]
Other assets	1,017
Total assets acquired	52,329
Deferred tax liability	3,475
Deferred revenue	1,354
Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities	2,731
Total liabilities assumed	7,560
Net assets acquired	44,769
In-process technology	'
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation	'
Identifiable intangible assets:	21,590
Customer relationships	'
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation	'
Identifiable intangible assets:	1,080
Core/developed technology	'
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation	'
Identifiable intangible assets:	1,040
Non-compete agreements	'
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation	'
Identifiable intangible assets:	810
Trade name	'
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation	'
Identifiable intangible assets:	$460
[1]	None of the goodwill recognized is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

Acquisitions_Acquisitions_Narr

Acquisitions Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) (Vyatta, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Nov. 09, 2012
Vyatta	'	'
Business Acquisition	'	'
Effective Date of Acquisition	9-Nov-12	'
Consideration Paid Held In Escrow, Amount	$7	'
Consideration Paid Held In Escrow, Escrow Duration	'18 months	'
Acquisition Cost Expensed	0.4	'
Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount	'	0
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	'	'
Cash consideration	'	43.6
Prepaid license fees consideration	'	1.2
Total purchase price	'	$44.80

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets3

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012		Oct. 29, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill)	'		'		'
Goodwill	$1,645,437		$1,624,089		$1,630,967
In-process research and development (1)	21,590	[1]	0	[1]	'
Total intangible assets subject to amortization	18,668	[2]	109,265		'
Total intangible assets	$1,685,695		$1,733,354		'
[1]	Acquired in-process research and development (“IPRD”) is an intangible asset accounted for as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort. While accounted as an indefinite-lived asset, the IPRD intangible asset is subject to testing for impairment annually, as of the first day of the second fiscal quarter, and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that IPRD is impaired. If the research and development effort associated with the IPRD is successfully completed, then the IPRD intangible asset will be amortized over its estimated useful life to be determined at the date the effort is completed. During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the IPRD intangible asset was not amortized due to the current stage of the associated research and development effort, which is expected to be completed in fiscal year 2014.
[2]	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, $69.4 million of finite-lived intangible assets became fully amortized and, therefore, were removed from the balance sheet.

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets4

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Goodwill Activity By Reportable Segment) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012
Goodwill	'		'
Goodwill, Gross, Beginning Balance	$1,669,921		$1,676,799
Accumulated impairment losses, Beginning Balance	-45,832		-45,832
Goodwill, Net, Beginning Balance	1,624,089		1,630,967
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	25,681		'
Goodwill, Tax and other adjustments	-4,333	[1]	-6,878	[1]
Goodwill, Gross, Ending Balance	1,691,269		1,669,921
Accumulated impairment losses, Ending Balance	-45,832		-45,832
Goodwill, Net, Ending Balance	1,645,437		1,624,089
SAN Products	'		'
Goodwill	'		'
Goodwill, Gross, Beginning Balance	176,956		176,968
Accumulated impairment losses, Beginning Balance	0		0
Goodwill, Net, Beginning Balance	176,956		176,968
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	0		'
Goodwill, Tax and other adjustments	-78	[1]	-12	[1]
Goodwill, Gross, Ending Balance	176,878		176,956
Accumulated impairment losses, Ending Balance	0		0
Goodwill, Net, Ending Balance	176,878		176,956
IP Networking Products	'		'
Goodwill	'		'
Goodwill, Gross, Beginning Balance	1,337,549		1,344,415
Accumulated impairment losses, Beginning Balance	-45,832		-45,832
Goodwill, Net, Beginning Balance	1,291,717		1,298,583
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	25,681		'
Goodwill, Tax and other adjustments	-4,255	[1]	-6,866	[1]
Goodwill, Gross, Ending Balance	1,358,975		1,337,549
Accumulated impairment losses, Ending Balance	-45,832		-45,832
Goodwill, Net, Ending Balance	1,313,143		1,291,717
Global Services	'		'
Goodwill	'		'
Goodwill, Gross, Beginning Balance	155,416		155,416
Accumulated impairment losses, Beginning Balance	0		0
Goodwill, Net, Beginning Balance	155,416		155,416
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	0		'
Goodwill, Tax and other adjustments	0	[1]	0	[1]
Goodwill, Gross, Ending Balance	155,416		155,416
Accumulated impairment losses, Ending Balance	0		0
Goodwill, Net, Ending Balance	$155,416		$155,416
[1]	The goodwill adjustments were primarily a result of tax benefits from the exercise of stock awards of acquired companies.

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets5

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'		'
Gross Carrying Value	$480,700,000	[1]	$546,710,000
Accumulated Amortization	462,032,000	[1]	437,445,000
Net Carrying Value	18,668,000	[1]	109,265,000
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Life	'0 years 6 months 29 days	[1]	'1 year 1 month 28 days
Cost of Fully Amortized Intangible Assets	69,400,000		'
Trade name	'		'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'		'
Gross Carrying Value	460,000		100,000
Accumulated Amortization	110,000		97,000
Net Carrying Value	350,000		3,000
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Life	'3 years 0 months 4 days		'0 years 2 months 1 day
Core/developed technology	'		'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'		'
Gross Carrying Value	192,340,000		218,845,000
Accumulated Amortization	185,254,000		173,070,000
Net Carrying Value	7,086,000		45,775,000
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Life	'0 years 4 months 6 days		'1 year 1 month 20 days
Customer relationships	'		'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'		'
Gross Carrying Value	287,090,000		327,765,000
Accumulated Amortization	276,473,000		264,278,000
Net Carrying Value	10,617,000		63,487,000
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Life	'0 years 6 months 4 days		'1 year 1 month 28 days
Non-compete agreements	'		'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'		'
Gross Carrying Value	810,000		'
Accumulated Amortization	195,000		'
Net Carrying Value	$615,000		'
Weighted-Average Remaining Useful Life	'3 years 0 months 4 days		'
[1]	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, $69.4 million of finite-lived intangible assets became fully amortized and, therefore, were removed from the balance sheet.

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets6

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Amortization Of Intangible Assets Included On Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Cost of revenues	$39,731	$46,229	$57,489
Operating expenses	54,256	59,204	60,713
Total	$93,987	$105,433	$118,202

Goodwill_And_Intangible_Assets7

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Estimated Future Amortization Of Intangible Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]	'		'
2014	$16,994		'
2015	865		'
2016	553		'
2017	238		'
2018	18		'
Total	$18,668	[1]	$109,265
[1]	During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, $69.4 million of finite-lived intangible assets became fully amortized and, therefore, were removed from the balance sheet.

Restructuring_And_Other_Charge2

Restructuring And Other Charges (Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Restructuring	'	'
Restructuring and Related Cost, Caption that Includes Restructuring Charges	'Restructuring and other costs (recoveries)	'
Restructuring Reserve Rollforward	'	'
Restructuring liabilities, Beginning balance	$2,582,000	$3,952,000
Restructuring and other charges	25,464,000	'
Cash payments	-9,551,000	-1,334,000
Non-cash charges	-1,069,000	'
Other adjustments, net	'	-36,000
Restructuring liabilities, Ending balance	17,426,000	2,582,000
Restructuring Reserve Ending Balance	'	'
Current restructuring liabilities	16,418,000	976,000
Non-current restructuring liabilities	1,008,000	1,606,000
Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan	'	'
Restructuring	'	'
Restructuring and Related Activities, Description	'During the fiscal year ended October 26, 2013, the Company reevaluated its business model to restructure certain business operations, reorganize certain business units within the Company, and reduce the Company’s operating expense structure. The restructuring plan was approved by the Company’s management and communicated to the Company’s employees in September 2013. The plan included a workforce reduction of approximately 250 employees, primarily in the engineering, sales, and marketing organizations, as well as the cancellation of certain non-recurring engineering agreements and exit from certain leased facilities. In connection with the plan, the Company incurred aggregate charges of $25.5 million as of October 26, 2013, primarily related to severance and benefits charges. We expect to incur total charges of approximately $35.0 million, with future costs primarily related to lease loss reserve and related costs, by the expected completion of the plan by the end of the first quarter of 2014. Severance and benefits charges incurred during the quarter ended October 26, 2013, consisted of severance and related employee termination costs, including salary and other compensation payments to the employees during their post-notification retention period, as well as outplacement services, associated with the reduction of the Company’s workforce. The post-notification retention period for the employees terminated under the plan did not exceed the legal notification period, or in the absence of a legal notification requirement, 60 days. Contract terminations and other charges were primarily related to the cancellation of certain contracts in connection with the restructuring of certain business functions. Lease loss reserve and related costs were primarily related to the loss on cancellation of the right of first offer to purchase an unimproved parcel. The Company reevaluates its estimates and assumptions on a quarterly basis and makes adjustments to the restructuring liabilities balance if necessary. No material changes in estimates were made to the fiscal 2013 fourth quarter restructuring plan accrual. The Company expects to pay or otherwise substantially settle the remaining accrued liabilities during the next fiscal year. The above restructuring and other related charges are included in “Restructuring and other costs (recoveries)” on the Consolidated Statements of Income.	'
Restructuring and Related Activities, Initiation Date	4-Sep-13	'
Restructuring and Related Activities, Authorized Approval	'The restructuring plan was approved by the Company’s management and communicated to the Company’s employees in September 2013.	'
Restructuring and Related Activities, Expected Completion Date	25-Jan-14	'
Restructuring and Related Cost, Description	'Severance and benefits charges incurred during the quarter ended October 26, 2013, consisted of severance and related employee termination costs, including salary and other compensation payments to the employees during their post-notification retention period, as well as outplacement services, associated with the reduction of the Company’s workforce. The post-notification retention period for the employees terminated under the plan did not exceed the legal notification period, or in the absence of a legal notification requirement, 60 days. Contract terminations and other charges were primarily related to the cancellation of certain contracts in connection with the restructuring of certain business functions. Lease loss reserve and related costs were primarily related to the loss on cancellation of the right of first offer to purchase an unimproved parcel.	'
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost	35,000,000	'
Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date	25,500,000	'
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Number of Positions Eliminated	250	'
Prior Restructuring Plans	'	'
Restructuring	'	'
Restructuring and Related Activities, Description	'During the fiscal years prior to fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded charges related to estimated facilities lease losses, net of expected sublease income, due to consolidation of real estate space as a result of acquisitions. Cash payments for facilities that are part of the Company’s lease loss reserve are expected to be paid over the respective lease terms through fiscal year 2017.	'
Restructuring and Related Activities, Expected Completion Date	28-Oct-17	'
Restructuring and Related Cost, Description	'During the fiscal years prior to fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded charges related to estimated facilities lease losses, net of expected sublease income, due to consolidation of real estate space as a result of acquisitions.	'
Severance and Benefits | Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan	'	'
Restructuring Reserve Rollforward	'	'
Restructuring liabilities, Beginning balance	0	0
Restructuring and other charges	20,413,000	'
Cash payments	-5,197,000	0
Non-cash charges	0	'
Other adjustments, net	'	0
Restructuring liabilities, Ending balance	15,216,000	0
Restructuring Reserve Ending Balance	'	'
Current restructuring liabilities	15,216,000	'
Non-current restructuring liabilities	0	'
Contract Terminations and Other | Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan	'	'
Restructuring Reserve Rollforward	'	'
Restructuring liabilities, Beginning balance	0	0
Restructuring and other charges	3,981,000	'
Cash payments	-3,565,000	0
Non-cash charges	0	'
Other adjustments, net	'	0
Restructuring liabilities, Ending balance	416,000	0
Restructuring Reserve Ending Balance	'	'
Current restructuring liabilities	416,000	'
Non-current restructuring liabilities	0	'
Lease Loss Reserve and Related Costs | Fiscal 2013 Fourth Quarter Restructuring Plan	'	'
Restructuring Reserve Rollforward	'	'
Restructuring liabilities, Beginning balance	0	0
Restructuring and other charges	1,070,000	'
Cash payments	-1,000	0
Non-cash charges	-1,069,000	'
Other adjustments, net	'	0
Restructuring liabilities, Ending balance	0	0
Restructuring Reserve Ending Balance	'	'
Current restructuring liabilities	0	'
Non-current restructuring liabilities	0	'
Lease Loss Reserve and Related Costs | Prior Restructuring Plans	'	'
Restructuring Reserve Rollforward	'	'
Restructuring liabilities, Beginning balance	2,582,000	3,952,000
Restructuring and other charges	0	'
Cash payments	-788,000	-1,334,000
Non-cash charges	0	'
Other adjustments, net	'	-36,000
Restructuring liabilities, Ending balance	1,794,000	2,582,000
Restructuring Reserve Ending Balance	'	'
Current restructuring liabilities	786,000	'
Non-current restructuring liabilities	$1,008,000	'

Balance_Sheet_Details_Schedule

Balance Sheet Details (Schedule of Accounts Receivable) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable	'	'
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	($575)	($833)
Accounts receivable, net	249,598	233,139
Trade Accounts Receivable	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable	'	'
Accounts Receivable, Gross	257,494	243,731
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	-575	-833
Sales Allowance	-7,321	-9,759
Accounts receivable, net	$249,598	$233,139

Balance_Sheet_Details_Schedule1

Balance Sheet Details (Schedule of Inventory) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory	'	'
Inventory, Raw Materials	$14,048	$24,240
Inventory, Finished Goods	31,296	43,939
Inventory, Net	$45,344	$68,179

Balance_Sheet_Details_Schedule2

Balance Sheet Details (Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	$927,735		$908,375
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization	-454,795	[1],[2]	-389,435	[1],[2]
Total property and equipment, net	472,940		518,940
Computer equipment	'		'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	16,006		17,953
Software	'		'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	57,186		39,410
Engineering and other equipment	'		'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	416,573	[1]	409,524	[1]
Furniture and fixtures	'		'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	29,029	[1]	30,516	[1]
Leasehold improvements	'		'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	24,287		26,306
Land and building	'		'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, by Type	'		'
Property and equipment, gross	$384,654		$384,666
[1]	Engineering and other equipment, furniture and fixtures and accumulated depreciation and amortization include the following amounts under capital leases as of October 26, 2013, and October 27, 2012 (in thousands): October 26, 2013 October 27, 2012Cost$11,925 $10,613Accumulated depreciation(5,366) (3,647)Total$6,559 $6,966
[2]	The following table presents the depreciation of property and equipment included on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in thousands): Fiscal Year Ended October 26, 2013 October 27, 2012 October 29, 2011Depreciation expense$90,127 $86,785 $88,150

Balance_Sheet_Details_Schedule3

Balance Sheet Details (Schedule of Capital Leased Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Capital Leases	'	'
Cost	$11,925	$10,613
Accumulated depreciation	-5,366	-3,647
Total	$6,559	$6,966

Balance_Sheet_Details_Schedule4

Balance Sheet Details (Schedule of Accrued Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accrued Liabilities, Current	'	'
Income taxes payable	$11,081	$15,079
Accrued warranty	8,632	14,453
Inventory purchase commitments	4,436	4,271
Accrued sales programs	25,752	24,801
Accrued interest	10,056	12,011
Others	20,382	20,670
Total other accrued liabilities	$80,339	$91,285

Balance_Sheet_Details_Narrativ

Balance Sheet Details (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Depreciation	'	'	'
Depreciation expense	$90,127	$86,785	$88,150

Fair_Value_Measurements_Schedu

Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value) (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Money market funds	$431,750	[1]	$308,960	[1]
Derivative assets	1,814		2,941
Total assets measured at fair value	433,564		311,901
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Derivative liabilities	1,441		296
Total liabilities measured at fair value	1,441		296
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Instruments (Level 1)	'		'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Money market funds	431,750	[1]	308,960	[1]
Derivative assets	0		0
Total assets measured at fair value	431,750		308,960
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Derivative liabilities	0		0
Total liabilities measured at fair value	0		0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)	'		'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Money market funds	0	[1]	0	[1]
Derivative assets	1,814		2,941
Total assets measured at fair value	1,814		2,941
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Derivative liabilities	1,441		296
Total liabilities measured at fair value	1,441		296
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)	'		'
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Money market funds	0	[1]	0	[1]
Derivative assets	0		0
Total assets measured at fair value	0		0
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	'		'
Derivative liabilities	0		0
Total liabilities measured at fair value	$0		$0
[1]	Money market funds are reported within “Cash and cash equivalents” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Borrowings_Schedule_Of_LongTer

Borrowings (Schedule Of Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Debt Instrument	'	'
Long-term debt, gross	604,600	604,916
Unamortized discount	5,396	3,736
Current portion of long-term debt	2,996	1,977
Long-term debt, net of current portion	596,208	599,203
Senior Secured 2018 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Maturity	22-Jan-13	'
Stated annual interest rate	6.63%	'
Effective interest rate	0.00%	7.05%
Senior Secured 2020 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Maturity	15-Jan-20	'
Stated annual interest rate	6.88%	'
Long-term debt, gross	300,000	300,000
Effective interest rate	7.26%	7.26%
Senior Unsecured 2023 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Maturity	15-Jan-23	'
Stated annual interest rate	4.63%	'
Long-term debt, gross	300,000	0
Effective interest rate	4.83%	0.00%
Capital Lease Obligations	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Maturity	31-May-16	'
Stated annual interest rate	5.67%	'
Long-term debt, gross	4,600	4,916
Effective interest rate	5.50%	5.80%

Borrowings_Narrative_Details

Borrowings (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 29, 2011

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Jan. 20, 2010

Oct. 26, 2013

Jan. 22, 2013

Jan. 20, 2010

Oct. 26, 2013

Jan. 20, 2010

Oct. 26, 2013

Jan. 22, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 31, 2008

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 31, 2008

Oct. 31, 2008

Oct. 31, 2008

Senior Secured Notes

Senior Secured Notes

Senior Secured Notes

Senior Secured 2018 Notes

Senior Secured 2018 Notes

Senior Secured 2018 Notes

Senior Secured 2020 Notes

Senior Secured 2020 Notes

Senior Unsecured 2023 Notes

Senior Unsecured 2023 Notes

Term Loan Facility

Term Loan Facility

Term Loan Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Swing Line Loan Subfacility

Letter Of Credit Subfacility

Debt Instrument

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, face amount

'

'

'

'

'

$600,000,000

'

'

$300,000,000

'

$300,000,000

'

$300,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt, fair value

'

'

'

324,400,000

638,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

281,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Irrevocable deposit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

311,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Repayment of principal amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Repayments of debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Call premium

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unpaid interest deposited to escrow

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Redemption price, percentage of face value

'

'

'

'

'

'

103.31%

'

'

100.00%

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Redemption amount of notes, percentage of principal amount, when using the net cash proceed from capital stock sale

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

35.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Redemption price, percentage of principal amount, when using the net cash proceed from capital stock sale

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

104.63%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Repurchase price of notes in case of change in control, percentage of face value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

101.00%

'

101.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Repurchase price of notes in case of sale of assets, percentage of face value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, original term of loan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'5 years

'

'

Call premium cost and original issue discount and debt issuance costs related to lenders that did not participate in refinancing

'

'

'

'

'

'

15,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior secured credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,100,000,000

'

'

125,000,000

25,000,000

25,000,000

Senior secured credit facility, amount outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

0

0

'

'

'

Senior secured credit facility, current borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

125,000,000

125,000,000

'

'

'

Write-off of original issue discount and debt issuance costs related to lenders that did not participate in refinancing

$5,360,000

$0

$25,465,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$25,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowings_Schedule_Of_Debt_Ma

Borrowings (Schedule Of Debt Maturities) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long-term Debt, by Maturity	'	'
2014	$2,996	'
2015	1,284	'
2016	320	'
2017	0	'
2018	0	'
Thereafter	600,000	'
Total	$604,600	$604,916

Commitments_And_Contingencies_1

Commitments And Contingencies Commitments And Contingencies (Leases Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$0.20

Commitments_And_Contingencies_2

Commitments And Contingencies Commitments And Contingencies (Schedule of Rent Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net [Abstract]	'	'	'
Rent expense	$26,199	$25,867	$26,576
Sublease income	-6,834	-6,606	-5,643
Rent Expense, Net	$19,365	$19,261	$20,933

Commitments_And_Contingencies_3

Commitments And Contingencies Commitments And Contingencies (Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract]	'
2014	$22,253,000
2015	17,040,000
2016	15,313,000
2017	6,889,000
2018	2,884,000
Thereafter	5,876,000
Total minimum lease payments	70,255,000
Contractual sublease income	$22,700,000

Commitments_And_Contingencies_4

Commitments And Contingencies Commitments And Contingencies (Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	'
2014	$3,215
2015	1,329
2016	326
2017	0
Total minimum lease payments	4,870
Amount representing interest	-270
Present value of net minimum lease payments	$4,600

Commitments_And_Contingencies_5

Commitments And Contingencies (Schedule Of Accrued Liability For Estimated Future Warranty Costs) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Product Warranty Activity	'	'
Beginning balance	$14,453	$11,298
Liabilities accrued for warranties issued during the period	4,969	5,929
Warranty claims paid and used during the period	-8,213	-575
Changes in liability for pre-existing warranties during the period	-2,577	-2,199
Ending balance	$8,632	$14,453

Commitments_And_Contingencies_6

Commitments And Contingencies (Purchase Commitment Narrative) (Details) (Inventory Purchase Commitment, USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Purchase Commitment	'
Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment	'
Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed	$186.60
Purchase Commitment, Recognized Loss	$4.40

Commitments_And_Contingencies_7

Commitments And Contingencies (Loss Contingency Narrative) (Details) (Enterasys, Settled Litigation)	Jun. 21, 2005
	patents
Enterasys | Settled Litigation	'
Loss Contingencies	'
Number of alleged patents infringed and seeking injunctive relief	6

Commitments_And_Contingencies_8

Commitments And Contingencies (Gain Contingency Narrative) (Details) (Positive Outcome of Litigation, A10 Networks, USD $)	12 Months Ended					3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Jul. 27, 2013	Aug. 06, 2012	Oct. 29, 2010	Jul. 27, 2013	Jul. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2013
				patents	Cash	Notes Receivable	Notes Receivable
Gain Contingencies	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of alleged patents infringed and seeking injunctive relief	'	'	'	13	'	'	'
Amount Awarded by Jury	'	'	$60	'	'	'	'
Gain Contingency, Description	'On August 6, 2012, the jury found A10 responsible for intellectual property infringement and unfair competition, and awarded damages to Brocade. On January 11, 2013, the Court issued an order that affirmed the jury’s finding of A10’s liability for patent and copyright infringement, trade secret misappropriation, and unfair competition due to A10’s interference with the employment contract of a Foundry Networks employee beginning in 2007. The Court also confirmed the jury’s award of $60.0 million to Brocade in damages for copyright infringement. The Court did, however, vacate the jury’s award of damages for patent infringement, and its award of punitive damages for A10’s and Lee Chen’s interference with the employment contract of the Foundry employee, and the Court ordered a new trial to redetermine the amount of any such damages. On January 11, 2013, the Court also issued a permanent injunction prohibiting A10 from shipping any A10 products that infringe Brocade’s patents. On January 23, 2013, the Court issued a permanent injunction prohibiting A10 from further use of the misappropriated trade secrets. On February 8, 2013, A10 filed a Notice of Appeal of the permanent injunctions. A10 also asked the Court to stay both of the injunctions pending appeal. On February 12, 2013, the Court denied A10’s request to stay the injunctions. A retrial on the sole issue of the amount of patent damages to be awarded to Brocade for A10’s infringement was set for May 20, 2013. On May 20, 2013, before the start of the retrial, Brocade and A10 reached an agreement to settle all matters between the parties including the lawsuit A10 filed against Brocade on September 9, 2011. On June 7, 2013, judgment was entered in favor of Brocade against A10 for the amount of $75.0 million (as further described in Note 14, “Other Income (Loss), net”). Pursuant to that judgment, A10 paid Brocade $5.0 million on June 25, 2013, and on July 22, 2013, the parties signed a $70.0 million, six-month convertible promissory note at 8%. That promissory note was then paid in full on September 30, 2013, including $70.0 million in principal and approximately $1.1 million in interest paid by A10 to Brocade.	'	'	'	'	'	'
Former Gain Contingency, Recognized in Current Period	'	75	'	'	5	70	70
Interest Income, Note received in settlement	'	'	'	'	'	'	$1.10
Note Receivable Interest Rate	'	'	'	'	'	8.00%	'

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed3

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Schedule Of Net Gains (Losses) Related To The Effective Portion Of Foreign Currency Derivatives) (Details) (Foreign Exchange Contract, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Net gains (losses) related to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives	$425	($8,351)	$7,292
Cost of revenues	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Net gains (losses) related to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives	98	-1,043	882
Research and development	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Net gains (losses) related to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives	-60	-1,094	496
Sales and marketing	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Net gains (losses) related to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives	356	-5,704	5,498
General and administrative	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Net gains (losses) related to the effective portion of foreign currency derivatives	$31	($510)	$416

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed4

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Maximum derivative instrument maturity period	'15 months	'	'
Foreign Currency Transaction [Abstract]	'	'	'
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses)	$0.10	($1.50)	($0.60)
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | Prepaid Expense And Other Current Asset	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Gross unrealized gain positions	1.8	'	'
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | Other Accrued Liabilities	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	'	'	'
Gross unrealized loss positions	$1.40	'	'

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed5

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Schedule Of Total Gross Notional Amounts, Presented By Currency) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	$98,614	$105,171
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | Euro	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	16,012	43,357
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | British Pound	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	25,053	20,499
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | India Rupee	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	17,444	16,046
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | Singapore Dollar	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	12,867	12,918
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | Swiss Franc	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	11,066	8,575
Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments | Japanese Yen	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	16,172	3,776
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	25,478	12,068
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | Euro	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	25,478	0
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | British Pound	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	0	0
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | India Rupee	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	0	0
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | Singapore Dollar	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	0	0
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | Swiss Franc	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	0	0
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | Japanese Yen	'	'
Derivative	'	'
Total gross notional amounts, presented by currency	$0	$12,068

Employee_Compensation_Plans_Em

Employee Compensation Plans Employee Compensation Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Apr. 28, 2012

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Apr. 28, 2012

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 29, 2011

Equity Compensation Plans

Equity Compensation Plans

Equity Compensation Plans

Equity Compensation Plans

2013 Inducement Award Plan

2009 Stock Plan

2009 Stock Plan

2009 Director Plan

2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

1999 Nonstatutory Stock Option Plan

Mcdata Equity Plans

Employee 401 K Plan

Employee 401 K Plan

Employee 401 K Plan

Minimum

Maximum

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional shares authorized under plan

'

'

'

'

'

35,000,000

'

'

30,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares authorized for issuance under plan

90,600,000

126,700,000

'

'

2,400,000

'

83,000,000

2,000,000

'

65,000,000

'

800,000

'

'

'

Maximum number of shares to be added to the plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

40,300,000

900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares available for issuance under plan

56,800,000

76,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

27,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum payroll deductions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15.00%

'

'

'

'

'

Discount from Market Price At Offering Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

85.00%

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum number of shares to be purchased per employee

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,750

'

'

'

'

'

Plan Offering Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'24 months

'

'

'

'

'

Plan Purchase Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'6 months

'

'

'

'

'

Number of purchase periods

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4

'

'

'

'

'

Reduction In Number Of Shares Available For Issuance

1.56

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Minimum Percentage Holding Requirement For Principal Shareholder

10.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Minimum Fair Market Value Of The Shares Granted To Principal Shareholder

110.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expiration Date For Stock Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Maximum Time From Grant Date - 10% owners

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expiration Date For Stock Options And Stock Appreciation Rights Maximum Time From Grant Date

'7 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Award vesting period

'

'

'3 years

'4 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares reserved for issuance under director plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

51,400,000

'

'

'

'

Shares Remaining For Future Issuance

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000

'

'

'

'

Company's matching contributions to the 401(k) Plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$9,200,000

$9,100,000

$9,300,000

Maximum contribution by employee

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$3,000

'

'

Employee contribution maximum rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

60.00%

'

'

StockBased_Compensation_Schedu

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Equity Compensation Plans) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 30, 2010
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Stock options	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'		'	'	'
Number of securities to be Issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights	12,561		29,497	50,765	71,666
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding	$6.19		$5.43	$4.91	$4.82
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans	56,756		'	'	'
Equity Compensation Plans Approved By Stockholders	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'		'	'	'
Number of securities to be Issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights	9,686	[1],[2]	'	'	'
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding	$6.51	[1]	'	'	'
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans	56,756	[1],[3]	'	'	'
Equity Compensation Plans Not Approved By Stockholders	'		'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'		'	'	'
Number of securities to be Issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights	2,875	[4],[5]	'	'	'
Weighted-average exercise price of options outstanding	$5.12	[4]	'	'	'
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans	0	[4]	'	'	'
[1]	Primarily consist of the 2009 ESPP, the 2009 and 1999 Director Plans, and the 2009 and 1999 Stock Plans.
[2]	Amount excludes purchase rights accrued under the 2009 ESPP. As of October 26, 2013, the 2009 ESPP had a stockholder-approved reserve of 65.0 million shares, of which 27.9 million shares were available for future issuance.
[3]	Amount consists of shares available for future issuance under the 2009 ESPP, the 2009 Director Plan and the 2009 Stock Plan.
[4]	Consist solely of the 1999 NSO Plan described in Note 11, “Employee Compensation Plans,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and Foundry’s 2000 NSO Plan, which was assumed in connection with our acquisition of Foundry.
[5]	A substantial number of shares were granted in the first quarter of fiscal year 2013. Information relating to equity compensation plans is set forth in Note 11, “Employee Compensation Plans,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

StockBased_Compensation_StockB

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock-Based Compensation Expense Included In Line Items Of Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	$73,618	$77,169	$83,076
Cost of revenues	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	14,519	15,433	15,607
Research and development	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	17,509	17,952	18,959
Sales and marketing	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	29,425	33,257	36,068
General and administrative	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	$12,165	$10,527	$12,442

StockBased_Compensation_StockB1

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock-Based Compensation Expense By Grant Type) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	$73,618	$77,169	$83,076
Stock options	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	2,581	1,079	3,483
Restricted stock units	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	50,522	56,791	55,750
Employee stock purchase plan	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'
Total stock-based compensation	$20,515	$19,299	$23,843

StockBased_Compensation_StockB2

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock-Based Compensation, Unrecognized Compensation Expense And Weighted-Average Period) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013
Stock options	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	$3,565
Weighted-Average Period	'1 year 4 months 17 days
Restricted stock units	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	86,956
Weighted-Average Period	'2 years 0 months 7 days
Employee stock purchase plan	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	$6,270
Weighted-Average Period	'0 years 10 months 17 days

StockBased_Compensation_Schedu1

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedules of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options and Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Stock options	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'
Expected dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Risk free interest rate minimum	0.60%	0.10%	0.10%
Risk free interest rate maximum	1.70%	0.80%	0.60%
Expected volatility minimum	39.90%	48.80%	50.30%
Expected volatility maximum	44.90%	56.50%	61.90%
Expected term	'5 years 8 months 12 days	'4 years 8 months 12 days	'3 years 10 months 24 days
Employee stock purchase plan	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'
Expected dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Risk free interest rate	0.21%	0.20%	0.60%
Expected volatility	39.50%	52.50%	65.50%
Expected term	'1 year 3 months 18 days	'1 year 6 months 0 days	'1 year 1 month 6 days

StockBased_Compensation_Schedu2

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity) (Details) (Stock options, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 30, 2010
Stock options	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding	'	'	'	'
Stock options, Beginning balance	29,497	50,765	71,666	'
Stock options, Granted	2,875	160	243	'
Stock options, Exercised	-13,149	-16,993	-16,814	'
Stock options, Forfeited or expired	-6,662	-4,435	-4,330	'
Stock options, Ending balance	12,561	29,497	50,765	71,666
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures	'	'	'	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Stock options, Beginning balance	$5.43	$4.91	$4.82	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Stock options, Granted	$5.64	$5.55	$5.47	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Stock options, Exercised	$3.99	$3.39	$3.48	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Stock options, Forfeited or expired	$6.90	$7.34	$9.03	'
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Stock options, Ending balance	$6.19	$5.43	$4.91	$4.82
Aggregate intrinsic value, Stock options, Outstanding	$24,784	$26,077	$35,494	$146,199
Aggregate intrinsic value, Stock options, Exercised	32,324	36,498	46,047	'
Weighted-average grant date fair value	$2.34	$2.39	$2.23	'
Weighted average remaining contractual term, Stock options, Outstanding	'2 years 4 months 13 days	'1 year 7 months 10 days	'1 year 11 months 23 days	'2 years 6 months 29 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest	'	'	'	'
Vested and expected to vest, Stock options, Outstanding	12,384	'	'	'
Vested and expected to vest, Stock options, Weighted average exercise price	$6.21	'	'	'
Vested and expected to vest, Stock options, Weighted average remaining contractual term	'2 years 3 months 25 days	'	'	'
Vested and expected to vest, Stock options, Outstanding, Aggregate intrinsic value	24,393	'	'	'
Exercisable and vested, Stock options, Outstanding	9,586	'	'	'
Exercisable and vested, Stock options, Weighted average exercise price	$6.37	'	'	'
Exercisable and vested, Stock options, Weighted average remaining contractual term	'1 year 2 months 12 days	'	'	'
Exercisable and vested, Stock options, Outstanding, Aggregate intrinsic value	$18,300	'	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Schedu3

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity) (Details) (Restricted stock units, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Restricted stock units	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested	'	'	'
RSUs, Nonvested, Beginning balance	21,996	23,481	28,171
RSUs, Granted	11,518	11,166	12,754
RSUs, Vested	-7,401	-9,597	-13,434
RSUs, Forfeited	-3,352	-3,054	-4,010
RSUs, Nonvested, Ending balance	22,761	21,996	23,481
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures	'	'	'
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning balance	$3.71	$3.85	$4.32
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted	$5.75	$4.97	$5.68
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested	$5.69	$4.82	$5.82
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited	$5.39	$5.92	$6.37
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending balance	$3.85	$3.71	$3.85
Vested and expected to vest, Shares	19,565	'	'
Vested and expected to vest, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value	$3.85	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Narrat

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 26, 2013
	2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan	Stock options	Restricted stock units	Restricted stock units	Restricted stock units	Restricted stock units	Restricted stock units	Employee stock purchase plan
						Minimum	Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Shares authorized for issuance under plan	65,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Shares available for issuance under plan	27,900,000	56,756,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Discount from Market Price At Offering Date	85.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'	85.00%
Maximum payroll deductions	15.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'	15.00%
Plan Offering Period	'24 months	'	'	'	'	'	'	'24 months
Plan Purchase Period	'6 months	'	'	'	'	'	'	'6 months
Award vesting period	'	'	'	'	'	'1 year	'4 years	'
RSUs, Nonvested, Aggregate intrinsic value	'	'	$178,800,000	$116,600,000	$105,900,000	'	'	'

Loss_On_Sale_Of_Subsidiary_Nar

Loss On Sale Of Subsidiary (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 29, 2011
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Assets and liabilities held for sale	$16.20
Intangible assets	11.1
Expected loss recognized on disposal	11.1
Goodwill written off	1.7
Loss on sale of subsidiary	$12.80

Other_Income_Loss_net_Narrativ

Other Income (Loss), net (Narrative) (Details) (A10 Networks, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013
Component of Other Income, Nonoperating	'
Other Nonoperating Income	$76.80
Gain Litigation Settlement Date	20-May-13
Cash	'
Component of Other Income, Nonoperating	'
Other Nonoperating Income	5
Notes Receivable	'
Component of Other Income, Nonoperating	'
Other Nonoperating Income	70
Note Receivable Interest Rate	8.00%
Other Assets	'
Component of Other Income, Nonoperating	'
Other Nonoperating Income	$1.80

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Sche

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'	'	'
United States	$176,536,000	$115,736,000	($42,118,000)	[1]
International	153,925,000	108,665,000	121,546,000	[1]
Income before income tax	330,461,000	224,401,000	79,428,000
Repatriation from offshore operations excluded from income before income taxes	'	'	$200,000,000
[1]	Excludes the impact of repatriation of $200.0 million from offshore operations to the United States.

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Sche1

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
U.S. federal taxes:	'	'	'
Current, U.S. federal taxes	($13,666)	($11,750)	$774
Deferred, U.S. federal taxes	46,313	33,981	28,111
Total U.S. federal taxes	32,647	22,231	28,885
State taxes:	'	'	'
Current, State taxes	8,091	613	1,250
Deferred, State taxes	78,106	-2,412	-9,187
Total state taxes	86,197	-1,799	-7,937
Non-U.S. taxes:	'	'	'
Current, Non-U.S. taxes	2,837	8,770	7,854
Deferred, Non-U.S. taxes	157	18	16
Total non-U.S. taxes	2,994	8,788	7,870
Total	$121,838	$29,220	$28,818

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Sche2

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation	'	'	'
U.S. federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit	4.10%	3.80%	3.30%
Foreign income taxed at other than U.S. rates	-17.60%	-17.70%	-48.20%
Stock-based compensation	1.90%	3.50%	11.80%
Research and development credit	-5.60%	-3.50%	-17.60%
Permanent items	0.30%	0.30%	1.20%
Change in liabilities for uncertain tax positions	-5.10%	-6.50%	2.50%
Repatriation from offshore operations	0.00%	0.00%	62.60%
Audit settlement and reinstated tax credit	1.30%	-2.90%	-11.70%
Change in valuation allowance	23.70%	0.00%	0.00%
Other	-1.10%	1.00%	-2.60%
Effective tax rate	36.90%	13.00%	36.30%

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Sche3

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	'	'
Net operating loss carry forwards	$10,525	$63,750
Stock-based compensation expense	17,664	22,582
Tax credit carry forwards	141,975	145,688
Reserves and accruals	63,765	94,755
Capitalized research and development expenditures	621	3,232
Net unrealized losses on investments	396	468
Gross deferred tax assets	234,946	330,475
Valuation allowance	-81,116	-22,269
Total deferred tax assets	153,830	308,206
Deferred Tax Liabilities	'	'
Acquired intangibles and goodwill	-22,307	-50,266
Fixed assets	-29,878	-28,110
Other	-2,042	-2,116
Total deferred tax liabilities	-54,227	-80,492
Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net	'	'
Total net deferred tax assets	$99,603	$227,714

Income_Taxes_Income_Taxes_Summ

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Summary of Income Tax Contingencies) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning balance	$119,253	$149,430
Gross increases for tax positions taken in prior periods	3,472	797
Gross decreases for tax positions taken in prior periods	-12,970	-26,001
Gross increases for tax positions taken in current period	14,875	6,633
Changes due to settlements with taxing authorities	-9,442	-6,771
Reductions resulting from lapses of statutes of limitations	-2,709	-4,835
Unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance	$112,479	$119,253

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Shares Repurchased with Repatriation From Off Shore Operations	'	'	46.5
Tax Expense Related To Repatriation From Offshore Operations	'	'	$49,700,000
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	987,000,000	'	'
Percentage of cash and cash equivalents and short term investments held in foreign subsidiaries	59.00%	'	'
Percentage Of Tax Benefit Realized Upon Ultimate Settlement With Taxing Authority	50.00%	'	'
Amount of unrecognized tax benefits that could affect the effect tax rate	75,800,000	'	'
Lower range of estimated potential decreases in underlying uncertain tax positions	0	'	'
Upper range of estimated potential decreases in underlying uncertain tax positions	4,000,000	'	'
Tax detriment from employee stock plans	1,500,000	4,800,000	5,200,000
Change in California deferred tax asset valuation allowance as a result of the passage of Proposition 39	78,200,000	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	'	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense	600,000	500,000	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	'	'	'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	2,300,000	2,400,000	'
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	'	'	'
Income tax expense	121,838,000	29,220,000	28,818,000
Foreign undistributed earnings permanent in duration	'	'	'
Deferred tax liability not recognized, Undistributed earnings of the Company's foreign subsidiaries	525,200,000	'	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)	'	'	'
Operating loss carryforwards	443,600,000	'	'
Operating loss carryforwards, Expiration dates	'various dates between fiscal year 2017 through 2033	'	'
Tax credit carryforward	155,100,000	'	'
State and Local Jurisdiction	'	'	'
Operating loss carryforwards, Expiration dates	'various dates between fiscal year 2014 through 2033	'	'
Tax credit carryforward	164,500,000	'	'
California State	'	'	'
Operating loss carryforwards	57,100,000	'	'
Other States	'	'	'
Operating loss carryforwards	$144,000,000	'	'

Segment_Information_Schedule_O

Segment Information (Schedule Of Financial Information By Reportable Segment) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Jul. 27, 2013	Apr. 27, 2013	Jan. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Jul. 28, 2012	Apr. 28, 2012	Jan. 28, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Segment Reporting Information	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues	$558,800	$536,551	$538,784	$588,729	$578,357	$555,332	$543,439	$560,642	$2,222,864	$2,237,770	$2,147,442
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	813,985	854,751	863,908
Gross margin	362,640	338,202	334,112	373,925	360,690	340,478	337,082	344,769	1,408,879	1,383,019	1,283,534
SAN Products	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,318,509	1,356,099	1,237,994
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	355,388	362,608	356,013
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	963,121	993,491	881,981
IP Networking Products	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	552,058	534,757	551,820
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	302,974	327,248	321,183
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	249,084	207,509	230,637
Global Services	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	352,297	346,914	357,628
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	155,623	164,895	186,712
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$196,674	$182,019	$170,916

Recovered_Sheet1

Segment Information (Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012		Oct. 29, 2011
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	$2,222,864		$2,237,770		$2,147,442
Property and equipment, net	472,940		518,940		532,384
United States	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	1,351,242		1,414,390		1,313,302
Property and equipment, net	457,622		500,744		515,940
International	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	871,622		823,380		834,140
Property and equipment, net	15,318		18,196		16,444
Europe Middle East And Africa, including Netherlands	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	552,734	[1]	493,979	[1]	502,999	[1]
Netherlands	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	339,100		259,200		257,500
Asia Pacific	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	181,461		186,244		212,636
JAPAN	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	97,259		99,887		75,542
Canada Central And South America	'		'		'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets	'		'		'
Revenues	$40,168		$43,270		$42,963
[1]	Includes net revenues of $339.1 million, $259.2 million and $257.5 million for the years ended October 26, 2013, October 27, 2012, and October 29, 2011, respectively, relating to the Netherlands.

Segment_Information_Narrative_

Segment Information Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2013
	segments
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Number of operating segments	4
Number of reportable segments, individually reported	2
Number of operating segments, combined to reporting segment	2

Net_Income_Per_Share_Schedule_

Net Income Per Share (Schedule Of Calculation Of Basic And Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 26, 2013

Jul. 27, 2013

Apr. 27, 2013

Jan. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Jul. 28, 2012

Apr. 28, 2012

Jan. 28, 2012

Oct. 26, 2013

Oct. 27, 2012

Oct. 29, 2011

Basic net income per-share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$208,623

$195,181

$50,610

Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income per-share

444,642

449,446

453,133

454,843

459,333

457,147

457,541

452,494

450,516

456,629

474,259

Net income per-share—basic

$0.14

$0.26

[1]

$0.10

($0.05)

$0.12

$0.09

$0.09

$0.13

$0.46

$0.43

$0.11

Diluted net income per-share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$208,623

$195,181

$50,610

Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income per-share

460,237

461,344

466,919

454,843

474,213

469,571

476,848

468,738

463,705

472,343

497,030

Net income per-share—diluted

$0.14

$0.26

[1]

$0.10

($0.05)

$0.11

$0.09

$0.08

$0.12

$0.45

$0.41

$0.10

Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted-average shares used in computing basic net income per-share

444,642

449,446

453,133

454,843

459,333

457,147

457,541

452,494

450,516

456,629

474,259

Dilutive potential common shares in the form of stock options

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,472

7,846

13,654

Dilutive potential common shares in the form of other share-based awards

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,717

7,868

9,117

Weighted-average shares used in computing diluted net income per-share

460,237

461,344

466,919

454,843

474,213

469,571

476,848

468,738

463,705

472,343

497,030

Stock options

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Antidilutive potential common shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11,868

[2]

16,402

[2]

21,905

[2]

Other share based awards

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Antidilutive potential common shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

167

[2]

570

[2]

3,075

[2]

[1]

The quarter ended July 27, 2013, includes the impact of the nonrecurring gain of $76.8 million resulting from the litigation settlement with A10 Networks, Inc.

[2]

These amounts are excluded from the computation of diluted net income per-share.

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub2

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Jan. 20, 2010	Jan. 22, 2013
		Senior Secured Notes	Senior Unsecured 2023 Notes
Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Abstract]	'	'	'
Description of Guarantees Given by Parent Company	' On January 20, 2010, the Company issued $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 2018 Notes and 2020 Notes. In addition, on January 22, 2013, the Company issued $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 2023 Notes. The Company’s obligations under the 2023 Notes and the 2020 Notes are, and prior to January 22, 2013, the Company’s obligations under the 2018 Notes were, guaranteed by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”). Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors is 100% owned by the Company and all guarantees are joint and several. The Senior Secured Notes are not guaranteed by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries and all of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries (the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”). Pursuant to the terms of the Indentures governing the Senior Secured Notes, the guarantees are full and unconditional, but are subject to release under the following circumstances: - Upon the sale of the subsidiary or all or substantially all of its assets; - Upon the discharge of the guarantees under the credit facility and any other debt guaranteed by the applicable subsidiary provided that the credit facility has been paid in full and the applicable series of senior secured notes have an investment grade rating from both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s; - Upon designation of the subsidiary as an “unrestricted subsidiary” under the applicable Indenture; - Upon the merger, consolidation or liquidation of the subsidiary into the Company or another subsidiary guarantor; and - Upon legal or covenant defeasance or the discharge of the Company’s obligations under the applicable indenture. The guarantees of the 2018 Notes were released on January 22, 2013, upon the discharge of the 2018 Indenture. Pursuant to the terms of the Indenture governing the 2023 Notes, the guarantees are full and unconditional but are subject to release under the following circumstances: - Upon the sale of the subsidiary or all or substantially all of its assets; - Upon the discharge of the guarantees under the Senior Secured Credit Facility, the 2020 Notes and any other debt guaranteed by the applicable subsidiary; - Upon the merger, consolidation or liquidation of the subsidiary into the Company or another subsidiary guarantor; and - Upon legal or covenant defeasance or the discharge of the Company’s obligations under the applicable indenture. Because the guarantees are subject to release under the above described circumstances, they would not be deemed “full and unconditional” for purposes of Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X. However, as these circumstances are customary, the Company concluded that it may rely on Rule 3-10 of Regulation S-X, as the other requirements of Rule 3-10 have been met.	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'	'
Debt instrument, face amount	'	$600	$300

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub3

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011	Oct. 30, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$986,997	$713,226	$414,202	$333,984
Accounts receivable, net	249,598	233,139	'	'
Inventories	45,344	68,179	'	'
Intercompany receivables	0	0	'	'
Other current assets	140,864	141,035	'	'
Total current assets	1,422,803	1,155,579	'	'
Property and equipment, net	472,940	518,940	'	'
Investment in subsidiaries	0	0	'	'
Other non-current assets	1,725,648	1,906,742	'	'
Total assets	3,621,391	3,581,261	'	'
Accounts payable	88,218	117,350	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	2,996	1,977	'	'
Intercompany payables	0	0	'	'
Other current liabilities	469,449	491,141	'	'
Total current liabilities	560,663	610,468	'	'
Long-term debt, net of current portion	596,208	599,203	'	'
Other non-current liabilities	117,707	135,770	'	'
Total liabilities	1,274,578	1,345,441	'	'
Total stockholders’ equity	2,346,813	2,235,820	'	'
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	3,621,391	3,581,261	'	'
Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	396,710	284,466	101,367	23,455
Accounts receivable, net	159,436	150,367	'	'
Inventories	40,072	55,084	'	'
Intercompany receivables	0	0	'	'
Other current assets	127,709	124,690	'	'
Total current assets	723,927	614,607	'	'
Property and equipment, net	457,054	500,530	'	'
Investment in subsidiaries	1,026,247	871,157	'	'
Other non-current assets	1,626,031	1,814,729	'	'
Total assets	3,833,259	3,801,023	'	'
Accounts payable	68,190	92,661	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	2,996	2,226	'	'
Intercompany payables	409,590	434,981	'	'
Other current liabilities	335,261	346,959	'	'
Total current liabilities	816,037	876,827	'	'
Long-term debt, net of current portion	596,208	599,203	'	'
Other non-current liabilities	74,201	89,173	'	'
Total liabilities	1,486,446	1,565,203	'	'
Total stockholders’ equity	2,346,813	2,235,820	'	'
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	3,833,259	3,801,023	'	'
Subsidiary Guarantors	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	9,301	680	1,527	6,907
Accounts receivable, net	328	-1,847	'	'
Inventories	0	0	'	'
Intercompany receivables	464,443	478,133	'	'
Other current assets	7	514	'	'
Total current assets	474,079	477,480	'	'
Property and equipment, net	567	213	'	'
Investment in subsidiaries	0	0	'	'
Other non-current assets	95,624	90,766	'	'
Total assets	570,270	568,459	'	'
Accounts payable	28	0	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	0	-249	'	'
Intercompany payables	0	0	'	'
Other current liabilities	7,075	7,628	'	'
Total current liabilities	7,103	7,379	'	'
Long-term debt, net of current portion	0	0	'	'
Other non-current liabilities	0	2,429	'	'
Total liabilities	7,103	9,808	'	'
Total stockholders’ equity	563,167	558,651	'	'
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	570,270	568,459	'	'
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	580,986	428,080	311,308	303,622
Accounts receivable, net	89,834	84,619	'	'
Inventories	5,272	13,095	'	'
Intercompany receivables	0	0	'	'
Other current assets	11,395	15,606	'	'
Total current assets	687,487	541,400	'	'
Property and equipment, net	15,319	18,197	'	'
Investment in subsidiaries	0	0	'	'
Other non-current assets	3,993	1,247	'	'
Total assets	706,799	560,844	'	'
Accounts payable	20,000	24,689	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	0	0	'	'
Intercompany payables	54,853	43,152	'	'
Other current liabilities	125,360	136,329	'	'
Total current liabilities	200,213	204,170	'	'
Long-term debt, net of current portion	0	0	'	'
Other non-current liabilities	43,506	44,168	'	'
Total liabilities	243,719	248,338	'	'
Total stockholders’ equity	463,080	312,506	'	'
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	706,799	560,844	'	'
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0	0
Accounts receivable, net	0	0	'	'
Inventories	0	0	'	'
Intercompany receivables	-464,443	-478,133	'	'
Other current assets	1,753	225	'	'
Total current assets	-462,690	-477,908	'	'
Property and equipment, net	0	0	'	'
Investment in subsidiaries	-1,026,247	-871,157	'	'
Other non-current assets	0	0	'	'
Total assets	-1,488,937	-1,349,065	'	'
Accounts payable	0	0	'	'
Current portion of long-term debt	0	0	'	'
Intercompany payables	-464,443	-478,133	'	'
Other current liabilities	1,753	225	'	'
Total current liabilities	-462,690	-477,908	'	'
Long-term debt, net of current portion	0	0	'	'
Other non-current liabilities	0	0	'	'
Total liabilities	-462,690	-477,908	'	'
Total stockholders’ equity	-1,026,247	-871,157	'	'
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	($1,488,937)	($1,349,065)	'	'

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub4

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Income) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Jul. 27, 2013	Apr. 27, 2013	Jan. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Jul. 28, 2012	Apr. 28, 2012	Jan. 28, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$2,222,864	$2,237,770	$2,147,442
Intercompany revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Total net revenues	558,800	536,551	538,784	588,729	578,357	555,332	543,439	560,642	2,222,864	2,237,770	2,147,442
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	813,985	854,751	863,908
Intercompany cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Total cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	813,985	854,751	863,908
Gross margin	362,640	338,202	334,112	373,925	360,690	340,478	337,082	344,769	1,408,879	1,383,019	1,283,534
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,100,396	1,105,290	1,106,014
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Total operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,100,396	1,105,290	1,106,014
Income (loss) from operations	83,650	74,363	57,179	93,291	86,320	70,221	51,769	69,419	308,483	277,729	177,520
Other income (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	21,978	-53,328	-98,092
Income before income tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	330,461	224,401	79,428
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	121,838	29,220	28,818
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	208,623	195,181	50,610
Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,347,055	1,409,705	1,285,732
Intercompany revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	25,507	44,152	88,063
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,372,562	1,453,857	1,373,795
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	534,699	559,835	531,162
Intercompany cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-58,050	-35,070	-2,263
Total cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	476,649	524,765	528,899
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	895,913	929,092	844,896
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	826,239	827,318	821,018
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-127,997	-138,197	-138,789
Total operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	698,242	689,121	682,229
Income (loss) from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	197,671	239,971	162,667
Other income (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	25,481	-49,470	109,902
Income before income tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	223,152	190,501	272,569
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	117,654	20,432	22,115
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	103,516	25,112	-199,844
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	209,014	195,181	50,610
Subsidiary Guarantors	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,257	4,685	27,569
Intercompany revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	1,753
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,257	4,685	29,322
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	38,991	49,935	85,540
Intercompany cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Total cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	38,991	49,935	85,540
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-34,734	-45,250	-56,218
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	34,175	56,838	76,645
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-22,443	-27,319	-25,694
Total operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	11,732	29,519	50,951
Income (loss) from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-46,466	-74,769	-107,169
Other income (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	258	4	-7,518
Income before income tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-46,208	-74,765	-114,687
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,190	0	46
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-47,398	-74,765	-114,733
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	871,552	823,380	834,141
Intercompany revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	22,123	21,709	35,980
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	893,675	845,089	870,121
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	232,807	234,889	233,448
Intercompany cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	105,680	100,931	128,059
Total cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	338,487	335,820	361,507
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	555,188	509,269	508,614
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	247,470	231,226	222,109
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	150,440	165,516	164,483
Total operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	397,910	396,742	386,592
Income (loss) from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	157,278	112,527	122,022
Other income (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-3,370	-3,862	-200,476
Income before income tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	153,908	108,665	-78,454
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,994	8,788	6,657
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	150,914	99,877	-85,111
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Intercompany revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-47,630	-65,861	-125,796
Total net revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-47,630	-65,861	-125,796
Cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,488	10,092	13,758
Intercompany cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-47,630	-65,861	-125,796
Total cost of revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-40,142	-55,769	-112,038
Gross margin	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-7,488	-10,092	-13,758
Operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-7,488	-10,092	-13,758
Intercompany operating expenses (income)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Total operating expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-7,488	-10,092	-13,758
Income (loss) from operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Other income (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-391	0	0
Income before income tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-391	0	0
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	0
Equity in net earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-103,516	-25,112	199,844
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($103,907)	($25,112)	$199,844

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub5

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	$208,623	$195,181	$50,610
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gains and losses	-1,748	-3,468	-1,831
Net gains and losses reclassified into earnings	-376	7,433	-6,444
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	-2,124	3,965	-8,275
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,456	-1,833	-894
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-3,580	2,132	-9,169
Total comprehensive income (loss)	205,043	197,313	41,441
Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	209,014	195,181	50,610
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gains and losses	0	0	-6,701
Net gains and losses reclassified into earnings	0	0	0
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	0	0	-6,701
Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,021	128	-89
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,021	128	-6,790
Total comprehensive income (loss)	210,035	195,309	43,820
Subsidiary Guarantors	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	-47,398	-74,765	-114,733
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gains and losses	0	0	0
Net gains and losses reclassified into earnings	0	0	0
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-628	11	458
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-628	11	458
Total comprehensive income (loss)	-48,026	-74,754	-114,275
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	150,914	99,877	-85,111
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gains and losses	-1,748	-3,468	4,870
Net gains and losses reclassified into earnings	-376	7,433	-6,444
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	-2,124	3,965	-1,574
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,849	-1,972	-1,263
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-3,973	1,993	-2,837
Total comprehensive income (loss)	146,941	101,870	-87,948
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net income (loss)	-103,907	-25,112	199,844
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges:	'	'	'
Change in unrealized gains and losses	0	0	0
Net gains and losses reclassified into earnings	0	0	0
Net unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments	0	0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0	0
Total comprehensive income (loss)	($103,907)	($25,112)	$199,844

Guarantor_And_NonGuarantor_Sub6

Guarantor And Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Schedule Of Condensed Consolidated Statement Of Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$451,029	$590,870	$449,232
Purchases of short-term investments	0	0	-38
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	0	952	1,604
Purchases of property and equipment	-52,371	-72,797	-96,797
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	-44,629	0	0
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	70,000	0	0
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	0	35	3,905
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-27,000	-71,810	-91,326
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	296,250	0	0
Proceeds from term loan	0	0	198,950
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	-300,000	0	0
Payment of principal related to the term loan	0	-190,000	-359,898
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	-992	0	0
Payment of fees related to the term loan	0	0	-1,167
Payment of principal related to capital leases	-1,627	-1,866	-1,761
Common stock repurchases	-240,000	-130,209	-210,698
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	93,771	98,791	97,152
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	3,189	5,141	312
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-149,409	-218,143	-277,110
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	-849	-1,893	-578
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	273,771	299,024	80,218
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	713,226	414,202	333,984
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	986,997	713,226	414,202
Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	281,478	464,097	436,714
Purchases of short-term investments	'	'	0
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	'	0	0
Purchases of property and equipment	-44,786	-62,791	-86,447
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	-44,769	'	'
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	70,000	'	'
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	'	35	4,966
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-19,555	-62,756	-81,481
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	296,250	'	'
Proceeds from term loan	'	'	198,950
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	-300,000	'	'
Payment of principal related to the term loan	'	-190,000	-359,898
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	-992	'	'
Payment of fees related to the term loan	'	'	-1,167
Payment of principal related to capital leases	-1,627	-1,866	-1,761
Common stock repurchases	-240,000	-130,209	-210,698
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	93,771	98,791	97,152
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	2,919	5,042	101
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-149,679	-218,242	-277,321
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	112,244	183,099	77,912
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	284,466	101,367	23,455
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	396,710	284,466	101,367
Subsidiary Guarantors	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	8,503	-1,799	-5,852
Purchases of short-term investments	'	'	-38
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	'	952	1,604
Purchases of property and equipment	-22	0	-33
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	140	'	'
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	0	'	'
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	'	0	-1,061
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	118	952	472
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	0	'	'
Proceeds from term loan	'	'	0
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	0	'	'
Payment of principal related to the term loan	'	0	0
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	0	'	'
Payment of fees related to the term loan	'	'	0
Payment of principal related to capital leases	0	0	0
Common stock repurchases	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	0	0	0
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	8,621	-847	-5,380
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	680	1,527	6,907
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	9,301	680	1,527
Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	161,048	128,572	18,370
Purchases of short-term investments	'	'	0
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	'	0	0
Purchases of property and equipment	-7,563	-10,006	-10,317
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	0	'	'
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	0	'	'
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	'	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-7,563	-10,006	-10,317
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	0	'	'
Proceeds from term loan	'	'	0
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	0	'	'
Payment of principal related to the term loan	'	0	0
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	0	'	'
Payment of fees related to the term loan	'	'	0
Payment of principal related to capital leases	0	0	0
Common stock repurchases	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	0	0	0
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	270	99	211
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	270	99	211
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	-849	-1,893	-578
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	152,906	116,772	7,686
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	428,080	311,308	303,622
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	580,986	428,080	311,308
Consolidating Adjustments	'	'	'
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions	'	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	0	0	0
Purchases of short-term investments	'	'	0
Proceeds from maturities and sale of short-term investments	'	0	0
Purchases of property and equipment	0	0	0
Net cash paid in connection with acquisition	0	'	'
Proceeds from collection of convertible note receivable	0	'	'
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary	'	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	0	0	0
Proceeds from senior unsecured notes	0	'	'
Proceeds from term loan	'	'	0
Payment of principal related to senior secured notes	0	'	'
Payment of principal related to the term loan	'	0	0
Payment of debt issuance costs related to senior unsecured notes	0	'	'
Payment of fees related to the term loan	'	'	0
Payment of principal related to capital leases	0	0	0
Common stock repurchases	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	0	0	0
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	0	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	0	0	0
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	0	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	$0	$0	$0

Quarterly_Summary_Schedule_of_

Quarterly Summary (Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
Share data in Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013	Jul. 27, 2013		Apr. 27, 2013	Jan. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Jul. 28, 2012	Apr. 28, 2012	Jan. 28, 2012	Oct. 26, 2013	Oct. 27, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Selected Quarterly Financial Information	'	'		'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net revenues	$558,800,000	$536,551,000		$538,784,000	$588,729,000	$578,357,000	$555,332,000	$543,439,000	$560,642,000	$2,222,864,000	$2,237,770,000	$2,147,442,000
Gross margin	362,640,000	338,202,000		334,112,000	373,925,000	360,690,000	340,478,000	337,082,000	344,769,000	1,408,879,000	1,383,019,000	1,283,534,000
Income from operations	83,650,000	74,363,000		57,179,000	93,291,000	86,320,000	70,221,000	51,769,000	69,419,000	308,483,000	277,729,000	177,520,000
Net income (loss)	64,233,000	118,696,000	[1]	46,949,000	-21,255,000	54,001,000	43,300,000	39,296,000	58,584,000	'	'	'
Net income (loss) per-share—basic	$0.14	$0.26	[1]	$0.10	($0.05)	$0.12	$0.09	$0.09	$0.13	$0.46	$0.43	$0.11
Net income (loss) per-share—diluted	$0.14	$0.26	[1]	$0.10	($0.05)	$0.11	$0.09	$0.08	$0.12	$0.45	$0.41	$0.10
Shares used in per-share calculation—basic	444,642	449,446		453,133	454,843	459,333	457,147	457,541	452,494	450,516	456,629	474,259
Shares used in per-share calculation—diluted	460,237	461,344		466,919	454,843	474,213	469,571	476,848	468,738	463,705	472,343	497,030
Brocade Price Per Share High	$8.43	$6.69		$6.15	$5.80	$6.44	$5.63	$6.17	$6.05	'	'	'
Brocade Price Per Share Low	$6.28	$5.14		$5.38	$5.17	$4.83	$4.18	$5.19	$4.15	'	'	'
Quarterly Financial Information, Explanatory Disclosure	'	'The quarter ended July 27, 2013, includes the impact of the nonrecurring gain of $76.8 million resulting from the litigation settlement with A10 Networks, Inc.		'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Quarterly Financial Information, Explanatory Note, Period	'	'The quarter ended July 27, 2013		'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Quarterly Financial Information, Quarterly Charges and Credits, Amount Affecting Comparability	'	$76,800,000		'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
[1]	The quarter ended July 27, 2013, includes the impact of the nonrecurring gain of $76.8 million resulting from the litigation settlement with A10 Networks, Inc.

Valuation_And_Qualifying_Accou1

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2013		Oct. 27, 2012		Oct. 29, 2011
Allowance for doubtful accounts	'		'		'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure	'		'		'
Balance at Beginning of Period	$833		$1,388		$1,838
Additions Charged to Revenues	319		1,482		1,357
Deductions (1)	-577	[1]	-2,037	[1]	-1,807	[1]
Balance at End of Period	575		833		1,388
Sales Allowances	'		'		'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure	'		'		'
Balance at Beginning of Period	9,759		5,011		4,883
Additions Charged to Revenues	8,885		10,947		9,048
Deductions (1)	-11,323	[1]	-6,199	[1]	-8,920	[1]
Balance at End of Period	$7,321		$9,759		$5,011
[1]	Deductions related to the allowance for doubtful accounts and sales allowances represent amounts written off against the allowance and recoveries.