For decades, the possibilities for network security were hemmed in by the dueling priorities of customizability and agility. At odds with one another by nature, each carries ties to the ability to protect the network from cyber attacks.
In the past, enterprises have been forced to choose between agility and customization. A network that offers customization options may be limited in its adaptability after it is implemented. Likewise, a solution that is easily modified may be limited when it comes to responding quickly to a new opportunity that requires support in terms of processes and teams. Network teams need a solution that allows a globally-dispersed network to be more dynamic.
Providers are reluctant to offer networking options that stray from the standard issue, because doing so often leads to a fully customized solution that must be sold at a higher cost. In addition, innovations are moving so quickly that a customized solution is almost immediately in need of an update.
Prioritizing Agility: In every industry, the role of IT is to stay ahead of the pace of change. When new technologies must be adopted in order to remain competitive, the infrastructure supporting them, including the network and network security, must also quickly change. The ability to modify every aspect of the network is a requirement for gaining a competitive edge.
A network without agility lacks virtualization and limits visibility into network activity, compromising network security.
Demanding Customization: Each enterprise is building a unique blend of cloud applications that are used across a geographically diverse set of branch locations and user groups. Customized network solutions are necessary to meet the needs of tailored cloud environments.
New Networking Approaches: Advancing network solutions are now customizable, but also evolve alongside the changing organization to provide the performance, connectivity, and network security needed to support fast-changing business objectives. The modern network is both agile and customizable for meeting network security and performance demands.
Several new approaches to network infrastructure are making it possible to easily meet expectations and requirements surrounding agility, customization and network security:
Hybrid Cloud Environments: Many enterprises embark on a digital transformation only to find that a mix of cloud and on-site solutions creates the right balance for managing costs, meeting business needs, and retaining control over some aspects of data and systems.
Software-Defined Networks: The abstraction of the network allows for centralized control and visibility, as well as flexible management and zero-touch provisioning. Software-defined networks are offered through a variety of delivery methods, including managed services and self-service, making them adaptable to the level of management and control each enterprise prefers.
Holistic Solutions: In this approach, all cloud applications, network and security solutions, and any artificial intelligence applications are all housed in a single platform. This allows for a more integrated approach that accelerates successful digital transformation.
If you’d like to learn more about options that prioritize agility and customization and offer robust network security tools and features, contact us at eXemplify. Let’s leverage the tools you need to embrace new network solutions to gain a competitive edge.