The increasing dependency on technology within business has led to a surge in data generation, transfer and processing across all industries. The growing demand has placed more pressure on networks to efficiently and securely handle booming traffic. In response, the pressure has created a metaphorical diamond: network automation. Businesses everywhere are adopting network automation. Gartner says 30% of enterprises will automate more than half of their network activities by 2026. By automating network-related tasks, organizations can enhance network performance, reliability and security, all while saving money.

What is Network Automation?

Network automation uses software and algorithms to automate various network-related tasks and processes. It can include configuration management, network provisioning, security enforcement and performance monitoring. In short, the primary goal of network automation is to simplify network management while improving overall performance, scalability and security.

Network Automation: Why You Should Hop On Board

As Garner mentioned, the majority of companies are moving to automate business processes, including network-related software and tools. It allows all industries to scale for the future by boosting efficiency, security and performance while saving them money on previously wasted time and resources. Below are five reasons why your business should hop on board the network automation train:

  1. Increased Efficiency – Manual network management is time-consuming and prone to errors, such as misconfigurations, inconsistent policy enforcement and delayed troubleshooting. These can lead to network downtime and security vulnerabilities. Network automation eliminates repetitive tasks such as configuration updates, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives.
  2. Enhanced Security – Consistency in applying security protocols is critical to protecting networks from cyber threats. Automation ensures that security measures, such as access controls and threat detection, are applied uniformly across all devices.
  3. Scalability for Growing Demands – As businesses expand, their networks must scale accordingly. Network automation simplifies adding new devices and services without manual intervention, enabling seamless growth. For instance, organizations experiencing rapid expansion can effortlessly integrate hundreds of new devices into their networks, ensuring uninterrupted operations and support for increased workloads.
  4. Cost Efficiency – Reducing manual processes leads to significant cost savings. Network automation minimizes the need for extensive manpower while reducing downtime caused by errors.
  5. Improved Network Performance – Automation facilitates real-time monitoring and rapid resolution of network issues, ensuring consistent performance. By identifying and addressing problems proactively, organizations can prevent disruptions such as network downtime, latency issues and service interruptions, ensuring smooth operations.

The Network Automation Challenge: Implementation

While there are many benefits to network automation, to work correctly, the foundation for productive network automation requires proper implementation. Sometimes, organizations attempt to implement the automation themselves, struggling to properly navigate integration complexities with their current infrastructure or manage potential security risks. However, businesses today can avoid these challenges by using a professional service to lay the foundation and guide the project. Leveraging experts will allow your business to benefit from tailored strategies and a seamless transition.

With the help of network automation, organizations can boost efficiency, security, scalability and performance while reducing costs. Set yourself ahead of the competition by embracing network automation. With this key tool in your tool belt, you will find it incredibly easier to position your organization for sustained growth and cyber resilience. Learn more about network automation in our recent tech brief, or contact an expert today to get started!

Related Posts:

Confluence Update: AI, Automation, and Enhanced External Sharing

Unlocking the Power of Automation to Increase Efficiency and Scalability Tech Brief