With the rapid progress of technology, organizations need more effective methods to simplify their network infrastructure and improve performance and efficiency. This process is “Mass network simplification—reducing the complexity of networks by eliminating components that do not provide maximum value and optimizing those that do.
There are many approaches organizations can adopt to simplify their networks. One such solution is 5G, according to the president of ZTE, Xu Ziyang. While Xu highlights that network architecture has become increasingly complicated, he also confirms that “Labour costs have gone up, and operators are now more sensitive to opex rather than capex”.
In response, Xu recommends network simplification, which can help operators reduce costs and enable improved business models. However, 5G is only a single aspect of network simplification.
This guide will explore how businesses can implement mass network simplification and the advantages of this approach.
What is Mass Network Simplification?
Mass network simplification enables operators to take a holistic approach to network architecture—businesses must eliminate inefficient components and automate essential aspects for increased efficiency. Here is an overview of how operators can simplify their networks at every level.
- End-to-end Architecture. To simplify this network level, replace legacy systems and technologies with modern IP networks, avoid technology and operational silos, and integrate solutions to drive automation.
- Device. Adopt modern network platforms with efficient hardware architecture- these components must offer scalability and efficiency.
- Protocols. The next level to optimize for mass network simplification is to minimize the number of protocols required to manage the network.
- Management and Automation. Operators must build automation and management tools that streamline network processes while leveraging open software frameworks and data models for data-driven strategies.
What Are the Limitations of Complex Networks?
While a growing network can result in more revenue when infrastructures become too complex, they become challenging to manage. In other words, complex networks are not easy to understand, driving inefficient workflows and processes.
In addition, when network infrastructure becomes complex, aspects of the network are often divided among departments. Consequently, it is difficult to track and monitor changes within the network.
A third negative challenge is threatened security—with several departments sharing the responsibilities of network management, security may be harder to ensure. As such, more complex infrastructures require complicated security inputs, making it difficult to maintain
How Are Organizations Adopting Network Simplification?
Companies can simplify their networks through solutions including software-defined networks (SDN), machine learning (ML), network function virtualization (NFV), high-level automation, and cloud computing. Let’s explore how each of these strategies reduce network complexity.
Software-Defined Networks (SDN)
Organizations can pursue mass network simplification through software-defined networks (SDN). SDN technology separates the control plane from the data plane—it is easier to manage and monitor network resources. This technology can simplify network configurations and make it easier to add or remove components on demand.
Machine Learning (ML)
Simplifying network infrastructure requires businesses to make data analysis more efficient—it is challenging to optimize large data sets, but machine learning (ML) can achieve this. For instance, operators can implement ML technologies to troubleshoot WiFi and network security vulnerabilities.
Network Function Virtualization (NFV)
Organizations can employ network function virtualization (NFV) for mass network simplification. This technology enables businesses to run network functions in software rather than proprietary hardware, allowing them to manage and scale their networks. As a result, organizations can significantly minimize the complexity of networks and focus on delivering high-quality services to their customers.
High-level Automation
As mentioned above, automation is an imperative factor in network simplification. The more components organizations automate, the more they can increase efficiency and leverage opportunities to optimize essential network aspects. While this technology is not advanced enough to help networks run and manage themselves, engineers can automate repetitive tasks, such as firm upgrades.
Cloud Computing
Finally, businesses can also achieve mass network simplification through cloud computing technologies. With these services, companies can offload much of the complexity and maintenance associated with network management, freeing up IT teams to focus on more strategic initiatives. Additionally, cloud computing offers businesses greater scalability and flexibility, making it easier to accommodate growing demands and stay ahead of the technology curve.
How Can Simplified Networks Benefit Operators?
Increased Efficiency
One of the main advantages of mass network simplification is optimized efficiency. With fewer components and more streamlined processes, networks can operate more smoothly, leading to improved performance and faster speeds. By reducing the complexity of their networks, organizations can also minimize downtime to reduce costs and optimize productivity.
Improved Security
Another essential advantage of mass network simplification is improved security. By removing unnecessary components and optimizing existing systems, organizations can reduce their attack surface and limit the risk of data breaches. This can be especially important for businesses that handle sensitive information, such as financial institutions and healthcare providers. By simplifying their networks, these organizations can ensure their data remains protected and secure, reducing the risk of costly security breaches.
Flexibility and Scalability
Moreover, mass network simplification can also lead to better scalability and future-proofing. By reducing the complexity of the network, organizations can more easily integrate new technologies and solutions as they become available. This allows businesses to keep up with the latest advancements in technology and stay ahead of network capabilities. Additionally, simplified networks can be more flexible and scalable, making it easier to accommodate growing businesses and evolving user requirements.
In Closing
Mass network simplification requires optimization of the network’s end-to-end architecture, devices, and protocols while leveraging management and automation. Complex networks are inefficient and have reduced security, however, there are many strategies to help companies minimize their networks. These include high-level automation, cloud computing, machine learning (ML), software-defined networks (SDN), and network function virtualization (NFV). By implementing these technologies, operators can benefit from secure, streamlined solutions, enabling flexibility and scalability.
