NTT’s predictions for 2024 highlight significant technological advancements and trends shaping the future of networking and IT. Here’s a summary of the key points:
The advent of ‘Dark NOC’: The concept of a fully automated Network Operations Center, termed ‘Dark NOC’, is gaining traction, driven by advancements in AI Operations (AIOps). This development signifies a shift towards more autonomous network management while emphasizing the continued importance of human skills for successful implementation.
AI’s Role in Energy Management for Data Centers: The increasing power demands of data center racks, now ranging from 50 to 100 kilowatts, are influencing a shift towards more sustainable energy solutions. Cooperation between enterprises and energy providers is expected to explore alternative, sustainable energy options, reflecting tightening regulations and sustainability goals.
Sustainability as a Core Technology Consideration: The emphasis on sustainability is growing in the technology sector, significantly impacting IT procurement and investment decisions. This shift is partly driven by evolving regulations, such as the mandate for German data centers to use renewable energy sources, moving towards 100% by 2027.
Optical Networking Gaining Prominence: Optical networking is set to become more mainstream in 2024, driven by the need for efficient, reliable, and future-ready network solutions. The industry is witnessing collaborations to overcome current infrastructure limitations and embrace optical technologies.
Boost in IoT, Private 5G, and Edge Computing: The integration of IoT with Private 5G and edge computing is expected to enhance real-time data processing and decision-making. This trend is driven by the digital transformation of physical environments and the growing importance of edge computing for robust AI/ML analytics.
Human Skills in AI Adoption: Human intervention remains crucial in AI implementations, especially in customer experience domains. The focus is on reskilling and upskilling initiatives to complement AI capabilities, with research showing significant profitability from such investments.
Rise of Vertical-Specific Cloud Solutions: Cloud technologies are evolving to cater to specific industry needs. Vertical-specific cloud solutions that package software, PaaS, and IaaS layers for industry-centric applications are expected to grow, optimizing business outcomes over technological focus.
These trends indicate a future where technology is deeply intertwined with sustainability, advanced networking solutions, and a balanced approach between automation and human skills.
