Network operators need to figure out a more efficient way to scale their networks due to the growth of network traffic, and the fact that more business-critical, video, and other traffic is coming onto networks.
They also need to add new devices and users more quickly efficiently. That will be especially important in light of all the new and different Internet of Things endpoints that are joining the network.
Plus, network operators want to be able to accelerate the pace at which they can introduce new features and services to meet customer needs, be more competitive, and innovate.
Then there’s the security challenge. Cybersecurity is a huge concern for businesses today. And there is a new cybersecurity breach story in the headlines just about every day.
All these trends call for networks that are more intelligent, policy-driven, and programmable. Such advanced networks can enable businesses and service providers to more quickly introduce new initiatives, features, and services; keep networks up and running more reliably; and use artificial intelligence and machine learning to automate tasks, understand what’s happening on their networks and connected applications and services, and deliver better overall security, performance, and business outcomes.
ACG Research and Ciena research suggests service providers are investing in adaptive, autonomous networks primarily to deliver better customer experiences. This joint research is based on 200 surveys and interviews. Participants included traditional CSPs, cloud and content webscale providers, and large enterprises.
The results indicate 25 percent are interested in greater network automation to allow for faster service delivery and time to revenue. Twenty-four percent expressed an interest in improving customer satisfaction and NetPromoter Scores. And 18 percent said they are attracted to network automation due to its ability to allow for faster and more frequent delivery of new services.
That takes us to cost savings. The study indicates reducing operational costs is a key network automation motivator for just 15 percent of those surveys. Seven percent said automation is appealing to help with faster troubleshooting and service restoration.
Edited by Maurice Nagle