Traditionally this is a busy time of year for conferences with lots to choose from including the recent MEF Global NaaS Event (GNE) in Dallas and Telecom Infra Project’s FYUZ Conference, held in Dublin this year, among others. We will have a separate post with some thoughts from the FYUZ conference shortly but to begin with here are some thoughts from a review of the panel discussions and presentations at the MEF Global NaaS Event held in Dallas from October 28th to 30th, 2024. The event showcased the latest advancements and challenges in the Network as a Service (NaaS) ecosystem, highlighting MEF’s leadership in driving standardisation, automation, and innovation.
Key Themes and Takeaways:
1. Standardisation and Interoperability
A recurring theme across multiple sessions was the need for standardised processes and APIs to address the growing complexity in network management. MEF’s efforts in launching the NaaS Blueprint and driving Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO) API adoption are aimed at streamlining operations and reducing friction across the sector. Standardized product descriptions and initiatives such as the development of API mapping solutions were emphasized as crucial for enabling seamless integration and innovation.
2. AI and Automation
The transformative role of AI was a major talking point. Presentations delved into AI-powered NaaS solutions, showcasing use cases such as automated service provisioning, real-time troubleshooting and intelligent network management. The integration of AI/ML technologies into NaaS management was highlighted as a pathway to achieving fully automated, customer-centric networks.
3. Evolving Network ArchitecturesDiscussions underscored the shift from traditional network models to distributed architectures, multi-cloud strategies and edge computing. The need for scalable, flexible and API-driven platforms to support enterprise AI strategies and digital transformation was emphasized. Trends such as routed optical networks, mesh architectures and hybrid cloud solutions were identified as enablers of next-generation networking.
4. Cybersecurity Challenges
Cybersecurity remains a pressing concern as networks become increasingly interconnected. Panels highlighted the escalating threat landscape, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced investments and collaborative efforts to address vulnerabilities and safeguard digital ecosystems.
5. Customer Experience and NaaS Adoption:
Enhancing the customer experience through on-demand services, transparent processes and flexible consumption models was a key focus. Presentations revealed growing enterprise interest in NaaS with adoption rates gradually increasing. The ability to offer integrated dashboards, self-service capabilities and customised solutions was identified as critical for meeting evolving customer demands.
6. Future Directions for NaaS
The event concluded with a forward-looking perspective on NaaS. Emphasis was placed on the importance of a collaborative ecosystem, where service providers, enterprises and developers work together to drive innovation. MEF’s commitment to fostering an automated and unified NaaS environment was evident, with plans for continued standardisation efforts and community engagement.
In summary, the MEF Global NaaS Event provided a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and challenges facing the industry. It reinforced the critical role of collaboration, standardisation and technology adoption in shaping the future of networking. As a System Integrator with a strong focus on supporting our customers as they navigate these often complex initiatives, we are inspired by these insights and remain committed to delivering innovative customer-focused solutions in line with these rapidly evolving developments.