Today, let’s take a look at an array of predictions for what will affect the network and consequently where the top three trends could position the network by the year 2020.
#1: SDN Remains Relevant
The days where network components such as routers and switches, are manually configured by hand are gone. Software-defined networking (SDN) doesn’t just mean improved efficiency and automation; it will be the driver for converting hardware into software that will run in the cloud. To bring home our point, according to a IHS Markit survey, 100 percent of carriers have plans to deploy SDN by 2020 or sooner. Why? SDN improves security, lowers operating costs, offers comprehensive infrastructure management and much more. While it may not be a new concept, but it’s a concept that connects close with trends forging their way to the future of the network.
#2: Cloud Remains King. 
To be specific, hybrid cloud. This perfect cocktail mix between private and public cloud services and orchestration between the two, is the second emerging network trend. Hybrid cloud brings in faster speeds, lower costs and an assortment of possibilities. Gartner also found that 90% of organizations will adopt hybrid infrastructure by 2020. However, mixing these kinds of services isn’t always easy and the transitional path can pose to be challenging. Challenges can include lack of expertise, security and the network itself. Companies need to close the knowledge gap by hiring professionals and investing in relevant training. Furthermore, companies can dive deeper into the granularity of their security to protect against attacks. Lastly, the network itself needs to be prepared for the internal and external resources; meaning, it must be planned. For example, Amazon and Microsoft have developed their own hybrid cloud network solutions. The solutions are private, low-latency network tunnels that funnel from the public cloud vendor to an on-premise environment.
#3: The New Kid in Town? Intent-Based Networking
Who doesn’t want the ability to monitor overall network performance, while also having scalability and security? That’s exactly what intent-based networking promises. Think of intent-based networking as SDN’s close cousin. It marries SDN’s capabilities with intelligence. It’s a software that will ultimately improve network availability and agility. Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins recently said that intent-based networking will “redefine the network for the next 30 years.” It stands to propel organizations into the future, making them move faster and smarter. And Cisco isn’t the only one who believes that intent-based networking is the next big thing. Apstra and Veriflow are also at the forefront of concept.
From SDN, a component that is nothing new, to the new kid in town, intent-based networking, these trends will surely have weight on the networks of the future. From improving automation to brand new possibilities via the hybrid cloud and improved network availability, it’s important to keep our vision 20/20 in the years to come.
https://www.gartner.com/it-glossary/hybrid-cloud-computing/
https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/software-defined-networking/benefits.html
https://blogs.cisco.com/news/the-need-for-more-intuitive-computing
