What was once an idea to connect computers to ease data flow about six decades ago has morphed into a complex web connecting developers and consumers of information, application, services, and data across the world? Networks, as we’ve come to know them today, continue to grow exponentially to meet new demands. Let’s see how technology trends and business trends forge the future of networks.
Business Trends Shaping How Networks Evolve
Globalization
In a 2019 World Economic Forum report titled “A Brief History of Globalization,” it was noted that leading global exports, both products, and services, have some form of digital functioning of artificial intelligence. Management of this expanded interconnectivity network will become more complex while simultaneously raising its value.
Automation and Robotics
The use of robotics and automation has been stepped up in recent years, and the trend is not likely to slow down anytime soon. Going by figures published by Capgemini Research Institute, cost savings from the adoption of robotics and automation is expected to surpass $470 billion by 2022. As a result, networks will experience increased demand in regard to timely and reliable packet delivery.
Transformation into the Digital Space
Among the first areas that business owners and executives explore when looking to transform their organizations include cloud computing, analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The world is now at a point where a stark majority of companies cannot function optimally in the event of major digital disruption. Lingering uncertainty over any form of disruption calls for a network that can efficiently adapt to facilitate new models and processes.
Operational Resilience
For survival, growth, and continued success, businesses must display operational resilience. In order to achieve this, organizations must regularly assess risks and contingency plans while providing training to operational staff. Networks will thus need to adapt and restore access and services and protect all relevant parties to the organization (customers, partners, and staff members).
Technology Trends Shaping How Networks Evolve
Application Models
Digital operations cannot exist without applications. Consumption and development of applications are subject to evolving business needs. Networks are obliged to adapt to accommodate this evolution. Application policies will have to be meshed with networks to allow a seamless integration in the operation and functioning of systems.
Internet of Things (IoT)
By 2022, it is anticipated that more than half of all globally networked devices will be machine-to-machine (M2M). IoT devices are increasingly becoming more complex. Network engineers need to devise innovative ways to ensure that these devices are properly secured while maintaining the smooth running of other services.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The field of AI is fairly new but is growing rapidly. With the expansion, more demand is placed on networks to provide additional computing and decision-making capabilities. AI-powered applications and devices are expected to improve in performance and capacity while addressing rising privacy concerns.
Mobility
Global business mobile operations and demand are always on the rise. Nothing highlights this better than the recent rollout of 5G networks. Equally rising is the number of employees who access cloud applications off networks. Networks need to address this “invisibility,” monitor traffic patterns, and provide added security.
Cybersecurity
To continue ensuring safety, networks must be one (or several) steps (s) ahead of the escalating sophisticated attacks. Newer ways of identifying and mitigating threats without compromising system operations have to be devised.
Network engineers, administrators, and other IT leaders are faced with the uphill task of developing a new approach to networking to safeguard systems and all parties involved. This will require re-assessment and/or re-design of architecture to more adaptable and secure networks.
