The networking industry has seen significant changes in recent years, with the rise of hybrid work models impacting businesses worldwide. This shift has led to a reevaluation of enterprise networks to accommodate dispersed users, new applications, and increased edge use cases that require connectivity and security in new locations.
CEOs in the networking sector are adapting their company strategies to align with these trends, paving the way for product roadmaps that incorporate technologies like secure access services edge (SASE), cloud-based networking, and expanded managed services offerings.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a crucial role in these companies’ roadmaps, promising to streamline network management processes and detect cyber threats before they impact users.
In CRN US’s CEO Outlook 2024, top networking CEOs shared their insights on the key trends shaping the industry this year and how they are positioning their companies to seize opportunities. Here are some highlights from these tech leaders:
Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO of Cisco Systems, emphasized the importance of focusing on security and partner-led managed services in 2024. He highlighted the need to protect networks from edge to multi-cloud environments seamlessly while enabling partners to differentiate with custom solutions.
Ed Meyercord, President and CEO of Extreme Networks, stressed the integration of AI and security into networking to proactively detect and address network anomalies. He also highlighted the growing demand for outsourced network operations and management as organizations seek flexible and scalable solutions.
Antonio Neri, President and CEO of HPE, discussed the disruptive potential of AI and the opportunities it presents for enabling customers to become AI-powered businesses. He emphasized HPE’s leadership in hybrid cloud and AI through HPE GreenLake, positioning the company as a trusted partner in edge networking and hybrid cloud solutions.
Ramesh Prabagaran, Co-founder and CEO of Prosimo, addressed the challenges customers face with cloud costs and the need for a consistent cloud networking architecture. He highlighted the shift towards a cloud-first approach and the importance of granular cloud cost analysis and seamless communication between users and applications.
Kelly Ahuja, CEO of Versa Networks, focused on the growing opportunity in the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) market driven by cloud/SaaS adoption, hybrid work models, and IoT. With ambitious goals to capitalize on this market growth, Versa aims to leverage its partner ecosystem to scale the business and maximize market opportunities.
Overall, networking CEOs are navigating a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by hybrid work trends and technological advancements, positioning their companies to meet the changing needs of customers in 2024.