Hybrid Networks Don’t Have to be Complex: How Simplification Changes the Game

Computer networking is a complex field because it involves the communication and interaction of various devices, systems, and protocols. And, all of this is before you involve the human aspect.

Running a hybrid network requires a deep understanding of how data is transmitted, received, and processed, as well as knowledge of different hardware, software, and security protocols. Additionally, as technology evolves, new challenges and considerations arise, such as the integration of IoT devices, SaaS, containers, and the increasing importance of cybersecurity.

Overall, computer networking is a constantly evolving field that requires ongoing learning and adaptation.

More often than not, however, computer networking is the result of politics. Many people have to come together and agree on how to proceed. As always, negotiations are involved. The end result is not a sleek, savvy design. Rather, it’s an amalgamation of good things and bad things. In addition, rarely do we get a chance to start with a blank sheet of paper as networks grow over time and are more of an evolution with new technologies layered on top. Leaving us with something that looks a bit like this.

Limited observability coupled with a siloed approach to infrastructure management adds to the complexity problem, making change difficult and stifling innovation and growth for the organization.

At Teneo we believe that there is a better way. Simplification through innovation is our approach to tackling the complexity and creating networks that work for, not against, the organization, allowing businesses to innovate and develop a competitive advantage from IT. Once we understand your business, technical and operational requirements and desires, we focus on three key areas to simplify hybrid networks.

Unified Pervasive Observability

In simple terms, you can’t manage what you can’t see. Modern network observability is not just about having a  toolset that you can call on when there is a problem. Having a complete picture of what is happening enables intelligent decision-making, allows for modeling, and highlights where we can simplify to reduce risk and cost.

By combining network flow and packet data,  end-user experience metrics and cloud telemetry, we can gain a deep understanding of what is happening from click to disk and back again. With these insights, we can start the journey to simplification

Leverage the power of the software layer

Technologies like SD-WAN have changed the game for controlling hybrid networks. By moving the management and orchestration of the network to the software layer, we enable the ability to make changes faster to support business initiatives and objectives.

SD-WAN simplifies the way networks are operated, reduces risk and cost while delivering an enhanced user experience. Furthermore, it streamlines the adoption of cloud compute and security services by reducing the complexity of building connections to these services.

Automation and AI

With the combination of network-wide observability and the power to make changes at the software layer, the ability to automate becomes easier. Using the insights from the observability tools, we can identify workflows and processes that can be automated. For example running simple checks on network health or the current state of the security posture empower IT to take proactive control of the network. This, in turn, frees time up to focus on innovation and getting more from the resources at the organization’s disposal.

The addition of AI takes the value of automation to the next level. Traditional automation tends to focus on an ‘if that, then this’ approach compared to modern AI solutions, which can highlight what ‘looks’ bad and then either take action or make recommendations for remediation.

To find out more about how Teneo can help you simplify your hybrid network, meet with us.