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Networks become complex ecosystems
Fabrizio La Paglia, Head of Telco, Media & Cloud Provider Business Unit at Italtel
Automation speeds up operations and reduces costs and risks. But to orchestrate the transformation, telcos face growing challenges such as the need for hybrid cloud architectures capable of handling huge volumes of data in real time.
Infrastructure is undergoing a profound transformation and evolving into the beating heart of the digital economy. The development of 5G and fibre networks, the advance of edge computing, the new industrial revolution driven by artificial intelligence and other disruptive technologies such as quantum technology: at the heart of all these transformations is the network. An enabling infrastructure that must be pervasive, scalable and resilient, capable of guaranteeing the performance required by new applications and the levels of security and reliability that are indispensable today.
How to orchestrate the transformation
To orchestrate this transformation, telcos face new challenges related to the increasing complexity of networks and the need for hybrid cloud architectures capable of handling huge volumes of data in real time.
Indeed, next-generation, programmable ‘software defined’ networks are reaching such a high level of complexity that from their creation, then operation and maintenance require a high level of automation and optimisation, which must be intrinsic to the systems. Automation speeds up operations and reduces costs and risks; observability ensures complete visibility, preventing problems and improving quality of service.
The new DNA of networks
Modern digital networks are not just technological infrastructures, but complex, evolving ecosystems that require continuous and proactive monitoring, where the combination of machine learning and human expertise will be a critical success factor.
Cultural transformation
Technological change must be accompanied by cultural and organizational transformation. In Italy, the Telco sector faces a crucial challenge: generational change, which requires investment not only in technologies but also in skills. On a global scale, this challenge resonates universally as industries worldwide grapple with workforce transitions driven by digitalization. From Silicon Valley to emerging markets, fostering digital literacy, adapting to new tools, and creating inclusive work environments are vital for staying competitive. Collaboration between governments, enterprises, and educational institutions is pivotal in addressing these transformations effectively.
Networks at the heart of the energy challenge
Finally, networks are also at the heart of the energy transition: not only do they enable the operation of ‘smart grids’, but they must also be designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly, reducing energy consumption and optimising resources.
The future of infrastructure promises more innovation but also increasing technological complexity. Italtel has been the guardian of network transformation, efficiency and security for 103 years. With our expertise, we manage the complexity of new networks to enable the benefits of emerging technologies and support digital transformation. This is our mission to support the country’s development.