AI Demands Strain Networks: Upgrade Now!

Organizations are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to gain data insights, automate processes, and enhance customer experiences. However, aging network architectures are severely limiting AI's potential and return on investment. Industry experts anticipate a significant surge in network demand driven by AI workloads over the next two to three years, outpacing even cloud and big data analytics.

These network shortfalls amplify operational risks, contributing to extensive system downtime that averages over 75 days annually and incurs substantial costs. AI applications necessitate high-speed, low-latency, and high-bandwidth connectivity, which legacy systems struggle to provide. This can negatively impact security, hinder growth, and stifle innovation.

Many enterprise networks are a complex patchwork of various technologies, vendors, and configurations due to incremental development, mergers, and quick fixes. The addition of end-of-life equipment escalates risks of downtime and security vulnerabilities, making uniform policy enforcement and threat response challenging.

IT leaders overwhelmingly agree that modernization, including robust cybersecurity, is essential for AI success, highlighting a symbiotic relationship between AI adoption and network upgrades. Furthermore, preparing for quantum computing's potential to break current encryption standards is another pressing concern that necessitates adaptable and scalable IT infrastructures.

Addressing these challenges requires a strategic approach, integrating AI for value creation and resilience against quantum threats while modernizing IT infrastructure. Companies must assess their capabilities and vulnerabilities and collaborate with experts to build tailored solutions, acknowledging the urgent need for immediate action in the evolving digital landscape.