Intent-based networking (IBN) simplifies network management, speeding up deployments and applying policies consistently across the network. What does that mean for your bottom line? Firms that adopt IBN see a reduction in network operation and security costs, all without compromising on quality.
Reducing Network Operation Costs
Networking is not getting any simpler. BYOD environments are on the rise, IoT devices need to be securely connected and everyone needs access to cloud-based applications without any lag time. It’s a monumental task on the best of days, and it leaves systems administrators troubleshooting rather than innovating.
IBN automates many of the tasks that require manual configuration with a traditional network, reducing the amount of time IT employees spend on network management. Instead of making network changes manually, systems administrators express what they want (their intent), and the AI-powered network figures out the most efficient way to make their intent a reality. IBN does this by interpreting intent into policies, implementing those policies and then monitoring networks with machine learning to ensure the policies are upheld. If they’re not? The network takes action in real time to prevent non-compliance and breaches.
Even troubleshooting is simpler with IBN. An intent-based network can resolve many problems on its own. When human intervention is needed, it lets administrators know what the problem is as well as recommended remediation steps.
All this means that labor can be reallocated to core functions. Systems administrators can focus on innovation and digital transformation (which attract new customers and bring in revenue) instead of maintaining the status quo.
Reducing Security Costs
Security breaches are costly. In addition to fines and reparations, there’s the damage done to a firm’s reputation. IBN hardens security without making a dent in your budget by:
- Applying policies consistently across the network. Instead of relying on humans, who are prone to error, the network applies policies intelligently.
- Taking appropriate actions. When abnormal activity is detected, the network takes action, isolating the threat.
- Simplifying network changes. Applying software patches is essential for security, but it’s also time-consuming and hard to schedule. An intent-based network can apply patches consistently and find the best (least disruptive) time to do it.
By reducing human error, IBN increases security without increasing your labor costs.
Is It Worth the Investment?
The reality is that budgetary concerns drive many IT decisions, and IT budgets haven’t been increasing. IBN is an investment. Over time, though, the money saved on decreased manual labor outweighs the initial investment.
Cisco’s intent-based networking solutions have shown consistent savings when it comes to network operation and security costs. Their IBN is based on their decades of expertise, and firms of every size have seen the benefits. At Acadia Technology Group, we specialize in Cisco solutions that help businesses meet their goals. Curious about what IBN would look like for your organization? Learn more by visiting our website.
