Future Network Technologies: AI, Zero Trust, Operational Technology (OT), Wi-Fi 7, and 5G

In the heart of Garching near Munich, the Controlware Network Day took place in late June 2023, bringing together industry experts to discuss the evolving landscape of networks and technology.

The event featured an engaging expert panel discussion on the future of networks, focusing on the integration of AI and Machine Learning into modern network architectures. Bernd Schwefing, the CEO of Controlware, was the driving force behind the organisation of this inaugural event.

Schwefing pointed out a significant discrepancy between well-versed, larger companies in terms of networks and cybersecurity, and the majority of the lower mid-market. He emphasised that IT is the basis for everything, without it, nothing works anymore today.

The discussion round on various topics related to networks and technology highlighted the potential of AI technologies to relieve network administrators of routine tasks, potentially offering up to 50% cost savings. Christoph Krell from Meraki Channel at Cisco Germany estimated these potential savings. However, it was acknowledged that not everything can be automated.

The future of networks, according to the system engineer from Extreme Networks, lies in "Zero Trust" networks. This concept was echoed by the three manufacturer representatives, agreeing on the importance of "Zero Trust Networks" as the framework for all future networks.

However, terms like "Zero Trust" were suggested to be avoided in customer conversations because most customers don't understand them. Instead, Controlware should act as a 'translator' for the customer, the discussion suggested.

The debate also touched upon the EU's NIS 2 directive, which tightened cybersecurity measures for critical companies. Many affected companies are still not aware of this regulation, the discussion revealed. The implementation of NIS 2 exacerbates the question of who controls the quality of the measures taken by critical companies.

The Controlware Network Day also discussed the possible replacement of WLAN infrastructure with 5G networks. Both technologies have their pros and cons, and there will be a coexistence of both technologies, the discussants agreed.

Wi-Fi is established in corporate networks, and the discussion questioned whether "Zero Trust Networks" is the right wording. The consensus was that the focus should be on network segmentation to prevent the entire production from being paralysed after successful attacks.

Looking ahead, Schwefing suggested that in the future, we will no longer speak of IT and OT but only of integrated networks. The event concluded with a lively debate on when integrated networks would become a reality.

Customers such as those using Zscaler and CrowdStrike leverage available automation tools in their networks, benefiting from automated workflows and integrated responses across endpoints, identities, and networks to enhance protection. However, very few customers currently use all the automation tools available in their network management systems.

The Controlware Network Day provided valuable insights into the current state and future direction of networks and technology. As networks evolve, it is clear that they will become increasingly complex, requiring a more sophisticated approach to management and security.

Future Network Technologies: AI, Zero Trust, Operational Technology (OT), Wi-Fi 7, and 5G