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Networking Trends

Rahul Rangaiah Naidu Mullapudi

Wilmington University

IST 7040: Data Comms & Networking

Dr Michael Blair

December 11, 2023

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Introduction

Network infrastructure is rapidly changing as organizations seek to build resilient,

efficient, and secure systems. Over the past three years, pivotal shifts have transformed network

design, management, and security. To stay competitive, companies must understand the latest

technological developments. This paper explores the key trends in reshaping networking. It

examines advancements in virtualization, security, hardware, network management tools,

software-defined networking (SDN), and wireless technologies. By delving into these critical

areas, we provide crucial insights into the progress that has reinvented the industry. Our analysis

lays a foundation for comprehending the dynamic landscape now facing IT decision-makers.

Evaluating both accomplishments and remaining challenges will prepare businesses to make

strategic choices as they architect robust connectivity for the future.

Network Design: General Trend and Subsets

General Trend: Cloud Networking

The accelerated adoption of cloud networking has become a predominant trend

transforming network design in the last three years. Organizations are rapidly integrating cloud

architectures to boost scalability, versatility, and savings across IT. Cloud networking enables

businesses to transfer computing and storage functions to on-demand services from cloud

providers. This decreases the reliance on legacy on-site hardware. The growing shift exemplifies

how cloud platforms have evolved into integral components within contemporary network

blueprints. As companies aim to be nimbler and more efficient within constrained budgets, they

continue embracing the cloud’s flexible subscription models for essential infrastructure needs.

Looking ahead, network design strategies will focus even more on seamlessly blending cloud

services for increased performance at lower costs. The trajectory underscores the cloud’s
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disruptive, transformative impact on networking’s fundamental approach - dictating clearer

directions to pursue for long-term agility and value (Azodolmolky et al., 2013).

Subset 1: Cloud-Native Solutions

Within the broader trend of cloud networking, the adoption of cloud-native solutions

stands out. Cloud-native applications are designed specifically for cloud environments, taking

advantage of the scalability and elasticity offered by cloud platforms. This subset reflects a shift

in how applications are developed, deployed, and managed, emphasizing the principles of

microservices, containerization, and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD)

pipelines. The rising interest in cloud-native solutions, as indicated by Google Trends, showcases

a commitment to optimizing applications for cloud environments (Häkli et al., 2018).

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Subset 2: Edge Computing

Another noteworthy subset within network design is the rise of edge computing.

Recognizing the limitations of centralized cloud architectures, organizations are integrating edge

computing to process data closer to the source of generation. This subset is particularly relevant

in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT) and applications requiring low latency. Google

Trends data demonstrates a growing curiosity and implementation of edge computing solutions,

highlighting the importance of decentralized data processing in modern network designs (Cao et

al., 2020).

Management Trends: General Trend and Subsets

General Trend: Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)

The last three years have witnessed a paradigm shift in network management towards

embracing Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA). ZTA revolves around the concept of eliminating

implicit trust, even within the network perimeter. This holistic approach challenges the

traditional security model, emphasizing continuous verification of users, devices, and

applications. The broader adoption of ZTA reflects the industry's acknowledgment of the need

for a more granular and dynamic network management strategy (Syed et al., 2022).
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Subset 1: Network Automation

Within network management, the trend of network automation has gained substantial

momentum. Automation tools are increasingly employed to streamline routine tasks, reduce

manual errors, and enhance operational efficiency. This subset reflects a commitment to reducing

manual intervention in network configurations, leading to improved reliability and faster

response times. Google Trends data shows a consistent increase in interest in network

automation, underlining its growing significance in contemporary network management practices

(Muhammad & Munir, 2023).

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Subset 2: Intent-Based Networking (IBN)

Intent-Based Networking (IBN) has emerged as another significant subset within network

management. IBN simplifies network operations by allowing administrators to define high-level

business intents, and the network autonomously translates these intents into policies. This subset

reflects a move towards more intuitive and adaptive network management practices, aligning

network behavior with business goals. Google Trends data illustrates a rising interest in IBN,

showcasing the growing recognition of its potential to enhance network management (Zeydan &

Turk, 2020).

Security: General Trend and Subsets

General Trend: Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)

In the realm of security, the overarching trend over the last three years has been the

adoption of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA). ZTA represents a departure from traditional security

models, advocating for continuous verification and the elimination of implicit trust within the

network. This strategic shift is driven by the recognition that cyber threats can originate both

externally and internally, necessitating a more comprehensive and dynamic security posture

(Raxmatov & Muxtoriddinov, 2023).

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Subset 1: Network Perimeter Security

Within the broader trend of ZTA, the subset of network perimeter security has undergone

significant changes. Traditionally, organizations heavily relied on fortifying the network

perimeter to prevent unauthorized access. However, the ZTA approach challenges the

effectiveness of perimeter-centric models, leading to a more distributed and adaptive security

strategy. Organizations are implementing advanced authentication protocols, micro-

segmentation, and other technologies to enhance security beyond the traditional network

boundaries (Raxmatov & Muxtoriddinov, 2023).

Subset 2: Threat Monitoring and Intelligence

Another crucial subset within the realm of security is threat monitoring and intelligence.

Recognizing the need for proactive threat detection, organizations are investing in advanced

monitoring tools and threat intelligence platforms. These technologies analyze network activities

in real-time, identify anomalous behavior, and leverage threat intelligence feeds to stay ahead of

emerging cyber threats. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in threat

monitoring has become more prevalent, allowing for quicker and more accurate identification of

potential security incidents (Raxmatov & Muxtoriddinov, 2023).

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In conclusion, the networking landscape has undergone major transformations over the

past three years that now define modern infrastructure strategies. Cloud networking adoption has

accelerated to enable greater scalability, flexibility, and affordability. Management approaches

have shifted towards Zero Trust Architecture, network automation, and Intent-Based Networking

for enhanced security, streamlined operations and intuitive platforms. Similarly, security

protocols have moved decisively towards Zero Trust models that dissolve the network perimeter

and focus on proactive threat intelligence gathering and response. These developments

collectively reflect industry dedication to building resilient, high-performing and secure network

infrastructures adept at navigating rapid technological changes. Looking forward, staying closely

attuned to emerging innovations will remain crucial for organizations to successfully keep pace

with the speed of disruption. Adaptability to new paradigms for network design, management

and security will only grow in importance as the terrain continues to evolve. Companies that

realign strategies to leverage promising trends will be best positioned to maximize value and

minimize risk.
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References

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