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Networks are the critical yet often overlooked backbone that supports nearly all business operations in today's digital age. As networking technologies and business needs rapidly evolve, it is more important than ever for organizations to carefully plan network transformations that will future-proof their infrastructure for years to come.
This blog post explores 10 of the most important trends influencing network strategies based on our experience assisting countless clients through their journeys. We aim to help readers understand these trends and how they can best prepare networks to support business goals. We also share insights into how PSI, an expert IT consulting firm, helps organizations navigate network changes through comprehensive lifecycle services.
Trend 1- Cloud Adoption Increases
Public cloud platforms like AWS, Azure and Google Cloud Platform have become mainstream IT infrastructure over the past decade due to their scalability, flexibility and cost advantages. Many organizations are moving portions of their applications, infrastructure and workloads to the cloud from on-premises data centres. This shift in the computing model requires networks designed for optimal cloud connectivity and security.
Networks need high-bandwidth, low-latency connections to cloud providers to support data transfers and cloud-based applications without performance issues. Traditional networks built for on-premises data centres may need more capabilities. Firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs) and other security tools also need updates to support cloud-native architectures. Cloud migration strategies must consider these network factors.
As a leading IT consulting firm, PSI helps clients execute cloud migrations through network assessments, designs, deployments and ongoing management. They size network links correctly, implement optimized routing and configure firewall rules tailored for cloud security. SD-WAN technologies improve the performance and management of hybrid cloud/on-premises networks. PSI also provides technical expertise in cloud integration, application migration and multi-cloud strategies. Their goal is to establish networks that maximize cloud benefits through fast, secure connectivity.
Trend 2- More Bandwidth is Needed
Data volumes are growing exponentially, fuelled by cloud usage, data analysis, high-resolution video, machine learning and more. Popular applications for remote work, like videoconferencing, place new network bandwidth demands as well. Emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, 4K/8K video, autonomous vehicles and smart city IoT sensors will accelerate bandwidth consumption on both fixed and wireless networks.
However, continually adding bandwidth capacity presents an ongoing cost challenge. Overprovisioning to eliminate bottlenecks risks wasting Capex and Opex. As an IT advisor, PSI recommends optimization strategies to stretch available bandwidth, including traffic prioritization, compression techniques and caching systems. They perform thorough bandwidth and capacity assessments through network monitoring and tools. Historical usage data helps accurately size necessary upgrades for the next 3-5 years.
PSI also provides guidance on cost-effective options for boosting bandwidth like multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), dedicated internet access and small cell/5G offload. SD-WAN technologies enable the simultaneous use of multiple transport methods based on traffic needs. Their goal is to right-size network capacity upgrades for each organization's unique requirements and budgets. Ongoing monitoring ensures networks stay optimized as usage patterns evolve.
Trend 3- SD-WAN Gains Popularity
SD-WAN decouples the logical network architecture from physical underlay infrastructure to simplify management of distributed traffic. Rather than reliant on expensive private MPLS links, SD-WAN leverages affordable internet connections and dynamically steers traffic over optimal paths. Remote/branch office connectivity is more robust with decreased dependency on any single transport method.
SD-WAN also provides centralized management of policies, security, application visibility and performance through the WAN edge. Troubleshooting is streamlined versus managing individual circuits and routers separately. The total cost of ownership usually declines through reduced MPLS usage yet delivers carrier-grade reliability with multiple active-active links.
As a technology partner, PSI helps clients thoroughly evaluate SD-WAN options and selection criteria from leading vendors. They design reference architectures optimized for each organization's use cases, considering hybrid access needs, security integration points, application requirements and SLA objectives. PSI handles all deployment, configuration, change management, and technical support aspects of delivering a turnkey SD-WAN solution. Ongoing utilization and ROI reporting validate that expected benefits are achieved and exceeded.
Trend 4- Security is Paramount
With cyber-attacks multiplying daily, network security must remain a top priority. A layered "defence-in-depth" strategy is essential to bolster network resiliency against both known and unknown threats. Next-gen firewalls offer expanded application inspection and AI-based anomaly detection beyond traditional static rules. Multifactor VPNs strengthen remote access controls. Endpoint security protects devices on and off the corporate network.
Data loss prevention tools monitor sensitive data flows in compliance with regulations. Deception technologies confuse would-be attackers examining network activity for vulnerabilities. Continuous monitoring through SIEM solutions automates anomaly detection and accelerates incident response. Zero-trust principles replace static perimeter-based approaches by verifying all users and devices upon every network access.
Trend 5- New Access Technologies Emerge
Emerging technologies are enhancing network access in ways beyond traditional devices and Wi-Fi. Fifth-generation cellular provides gigabit-level broadband connectivity virtually anywhere through dramatically faster speeds, higher capacities and ultra-low latency.
Fixed wireless extends broadband access to remote or hard-to-reach areas as an alternative to fibre or DSL lines. Mesh networks allow devices to connect seamlessly and autonomously through peer-to-peer relaying. Low-Earth orbit satellites enable global coverage for IoT sensors in hostile environments.
As a technology advisor, PSI performs pilots and proof-of-concept projects to evaluate new access methods. They help clients scope deployment requirements, address regulatory considerations and size adequate backhaul connectivity. Proper network design encompasses high-level strategies for leveraging these technologies alongside existing Wi-Fi and cellular frameworks. PSI ensures ubiquitous, reliable connectivity regardless of user locations, mobility needs or endpoint types.
Trend 6- Mobility & BYOD Trends Continue
The evolving workforce expects network access on any personal device from any location. BYOD and robust mobility are table stakes. Sophisticated client onboarding policies must securely Yet seamlessly integrate diverse endpoints into business systems.
Zero-touch provisioning automates new device integration without IT assistance. Context-aware NAC policies dynamically apply based on user, device, application or network attributes. Advanced endpoint detection and response capabilities gain comprehensive visibility for remediating vulnerabilities. Mobile application management supports secure enterprise app stores and containers.
As a managed mobility services provider, PSI offers complete lifecycle support from consultation and solution design to deployments, troubleshooting and updates. Their secure mobile gateways and endpoint management platforms centrally enforce consistent policy. Detailed reporting aids compliance while maximizing productivity and user satisfaction.
Trend 7- IoT Connects Everything
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the billions of smart connected devices and embedded systems beyond traditional IT. IoT now impacts networks supporting physical infrastructure monitoring sensors, manufacturing equipment, healthcare gadgets, home/building automation, fleet management telematics and more.
PSI architects secure, scalable and reliable IoT networks customized for unique industry needs. They help define IoT strategies, assess ecosystem impacts and integrate with legacy systems. Device identification, credential provisioning, data routing and storage are key design considerations. Mature IoT security must prevent hijacking of physical processes.
Our Managed IoT Services provide around-the-clock surveillance of all endpoints along with configuration control, data analytics and automated alerting. Edge computing deployments optimize data processing near endpoints. PSI ensures business-critical IoT networks perform dependably from day one.
Trend 8- Data Analytics Inform Decisions
Networks generate vast troves of log data from operating systems, routers, switches, firewalls and other components. When captured and analyzed, these traffic insights reveal everything from top applications and protocols to abnormal behaviour indicating threats or anomalies.
PSI advocates for establishing a centralized log management infrastructure using SIEM and analytics tools. Custom dashboards visually surface key operational and security metrics. Automated alerts notify teams of degradations, policy violations or suspicious network probes in real-time.
Historical traffic analytics aid long-term capacity planning and procurement through correlations with business service-level agreements, geographic demand shifts or seasonal usage patterns. Regular reporting verifies network investments and optimizes performance and uptime while reducing total costs.
Trend 9- Reliability through Redundancy
Well-architected networks adopt redundancy to eliminate dependencies on any single component, circuit or data centre. Critical systems like core routers, firewalls and internet links employ active-active load sharing with automatic failover.
Redundant power subsystems safeguard against utility outages. Geographic diversity supports continuity with follow-the-sun operations. Regular disaster recovery tests validate redundancy strategies work as intended during outages.
PSI consultants design optimal redundancy layers during network projects. Their technical staff conducts quarterly assessments and simulations, ensuring five reliability expectations remain satisfied as infrastructures expand and technologies evolve.
Trend 10- Networks Foster Digital Transformation
Progressive digital strategies depend heavily on high-performance, secure network infrastructures. Network modernization is pivotal for enabling critical digital initiatives around customer experience, hybrid workforces, cloud adoption, data analytics, IoT, manufacturing automation and more.
PSI acts as a strategic advisor, aligning network roadmaps tightly with business technology visions. They assisted several clients in streamlining supply chains through private IoT networks, delivering telehealth through low-latency mobile gateways, and optimising field operations using SD-WAN. Careful network validation supported major ERP migrations and warehouse automation projects.
As a trusted partner, PSI ensures networks lay robust foundations for executing key digital projects. Continuous optimization fuels greater innovation, agility and competitive advantages through technology.
Conclusion
Networks face continuous evolution as new technologies emerge and business models change at an accelerating pace. Those who plan transformations with these trends in mind will find networks better equipped to fuel opportunities. As an experienced partner, PSI assists clients of all sizes in anticipating trends, maximising existing investments, incorporating strategic redundancies, and aligning networks tightly with digital ambitions. Their team of consultants, engineers and managed services experts serve as a trusted guide for all aspects of network lifecycles. Contact PSI to discuss a consultation, assessment, pilot or full transformation engagement tailored to your unique needs. Together, they can design dynamic networks powering your success now and well into the future.
