Networking and Communications


A cyber-vulnerable development? Artificial intelligence is set to revolutionise how people live and work. While this step change continues to fuel the ever-increasing digital revolution, there are understandably widespread concerns surrounding the security and privacy of data in this new age. One of the ways in which AI can augment attackers is through


the optimisation of cyber attacks. Trough a combination of machine learning and large language models, cyberattacks can be scaled at an unheard-of speed, complexity and size. Generative AI can be implemented to undermine cybersecurity processes and to identify and capitalise on system vulnerabilities for the benefit of the attackers. Oded Netzer, a professor at the Columbia Business School,


recently stated how generative AI applications such as ChatGPT can “write code quite well”. When this is combined with the aforementioned point about how AI becomes more intelligent as it processes and accumulates data, it creates a concerning concept for many. Although AI does present the possibility of being used


maliciously, it can also be used in a positive way to elevate and enhance cybersecurity offerings in several different ways, one of which is in the advancements made in threat detection, identification and response.


The evolution of threat detection AI-powered systems track network traffic, identify anomalies and detect unusual activity such as unauthorised access or unusual data transfers that may indicate a breach. AI can also help prevent breaches by identifying possible vulnerabilities in an organisation’s security infrastructure. An organisation’s security measures can be strengthened


using this information to prevent upcoming assaults and system vulnerabilities. Tis is commonly referred to as “threat hunting,” which is a proactive approach to cybersecurity that entails looking for and getting ready for potential attacks inside a company’s network before they can happen, to ensure that organisations are as best prepared as possible for any breach attempts. Tis is of enormous benefit to the channel, allowing MSPs to


refine their security processes and protocols, to maximise the protection of their data and information. Trough the machine learning capabilities of AI systems, the solutions are highly adaptable, placing them in the optimal position for security amidst such a rapidly developing and threat-filled digital world.


Gaining the competitive edge Edge computing is a form of IT architecture where computing and storage resources are deployed at the location in which the data is produced. Tis type of computing eliminates the time lag in data sharing, as data does not need to travel to and from the cloud, reducing the reliance on high internet bandwidth and connectivity speeds. Edge computing has amassed a lot of interest throughout 2023,


partly caused by the recent developments in 5G connectivity. 5G technology delivers speeds that are up to ten times faster than 4G. As edge computing reduces latency, by bringing technology closer


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to the end user, it creates a perfect synergy between the two areas of technology and creates new possibilities. As 5G connectivity continues to become more widespread,


edge computing infrastructure will be able to offer the real-time processing of data for IoT and mobile devices, raising its value to businesses in unlocking information. Furthermore, edge computing can be used to optimise network


performance by measuring the activities of users across the network and using collated analytics to determine the most reliable and low-latency pathway for traffic. Tis refined IT architecture paves the way for future networking architectures such as SD-WANs, allowing them to operate faster, streamlining the user experience and improving overall operational efficiency for organisations and end users.


Unlocking the power of IoT Te number of IoT devices will experience a growth of 18% throughout 2023, to a total of 14.4 billion devices, according to a recent study conducted by IoT Analytics. Tis number is forecasted to grow further to approximately 27 billion IoT- connected devices by 2025, highlighting the limitless potential for the future of the technology. Technological advances are a significant contributor to the


success of the IoT, making it easier and more affordable to develop and manufacture IoT devices. Smaller, more powerful, energy-efficient sensors and communication modules are becoming readily available, enabling the creation of a wide variety of IoT devices for different applications and environments.


Connecting for success IoT devices generate a vast amount of data in various aspects of business operations. Tis data can be analysed to gain insights, make informed decisions, and improve overall efficiency, through the collection of information at a granular level. Businesses can receive tremendous value from this, harnessing IoT data to optimise processes, reduce operational costs, and improve customer and employee experiences. IoT devices also possess environmental benefits, as they can be


used to monitor and control energy usage in buildings, through the use of HVAC and other related sensors. Tese help reduce energy consumption for businesses, eliminating any unrequired waste of resources and improving the overall sustainability of facilities and processes while saving costs at the same time.


The future of networking Te world is evolving faster than ever before, and with an increase in the functionality and capability of networking technologies comes a direct increase in the potential threats and vulnerabilities that exist in the digital landscape. AI, the IoT and edge computing all carry implications for the cybersecurity and networking industries alike, and as they continue to evolve from vision into a reality, these impacts will continue to grow. Te digital world is full of potential cyber threats, however,


the use of AI, as well as widespread enhanced processes and cybersecurity procedures can help steer businesses away from a place of concern to a future of secure prosperity.


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