Future of data networks: AI, optical tech & efficiency
IDS has revealed key trends expected to shape the future of data networks and storage in 2025, highlighting advancements in areas such as optical networking and AI-driven data management.
Ian Deane, Director at IDS, shared his insights, pointing out how data networking and storage are undergoing rapid changes, impacting IT leaders' ability to manage vast data volumes efficiently. He emphasised how AI workloads are influencing data centre connectivity. "Increasing AI workloads are fundamentally changing the demands on data centre connectivity," says Ian Deane. "Optical connectivity solutions are under enormous pressure to transmit more data faster, with lower latency and less power than ever before. As data centres navigate the demands of artificial intelligence, there's a significant increase in the capacity of communication networks and bit rates."
The integration of AI and machine learning is driving the need for advancements in fibre optics and network infrastructure. Data centres must evolve to efficiently handle complex, data-intensive operations, ensuring performance and scalability.
Long-haul connectivity is highlighted as essential for data centre interconnectivity. "Long-haul connectivity will be crucial for interconnecting data centres to meet the growing demands of AI," Deane explains. "By linking data centres across regions, operators can overcome geographical constraints and optimise resource usage." This approach allows data centres to effectively collaborate, thereby optimising efficiency and performance through improved resource allocation and redundancy.
The popularity of data fabric and data mesh architectures is noted for their ability to provide flexible management solutions across various computing environments. "Data fabric and data mesh architectures are gaining popularity because they provide flexible management solutions for data spread across on-premise data centres, multiple clouds and edge devices," notes Deane. "These architectures enable seamless data integration and management, which is critical in today's distributed computing environments." These frameworks help break down data silos, improve accessibility, and enhance data governance.
Deane underscores the role of automation and AI in streamlining data management. "Automation will play a key role in managing data more efficiently," says Deane. "By reducing manual intervention, we can improve accuracy and speed, allowing organisations to handle larger data volumes without compromising on quality." Automation boosts operational efficiency, reduces errors, and allows human resources to concentrate on strategic initiatives.
Advancements in optical networking are anticipated to evolve rapidly, addressing increased expectations for speed, security, and flexibility. Deane forecasts significant breakthroughs: "In response to these trends, we expect rapid advancements in optical networking technology to meet the ever-growing demands for speed, security, and flexibility in modern networks. We're breaking the 400G barrier with new applications that push the boundaries of current technology. Innovations in the 800G portfolio promise even greater speeds and efficiencies for future networks." These developments are crucial for managing the rising data traffic from AI and machine learning applications.
Energy efficiency in data centres closes the discussion, emphasising its importance amid mounting AI demands. "It's a hot topic now—reducing power consumption in data centres while increasing speed to respond to the demands of AI," emphasises Deane. "Optical connectivity solutions must not only transmit more data faster but also do so with lower latency and less power than ever before." This focus on sustainable practices is critical for environmental and operational considerations in data centre operations.
Deane concludes that these trends underscore the ongoing evolution of data networking and storage, driven by requirements for AI, scalability, and efficient data management. He states, "These trends highlight the ongoing evolution of data networking and storage, driven by the increasing demands of AI, scalability and efficient data management. At IDS, we're committed to pioneering solutions that address these challenges head-on, ensuring our clients are ready for the future."
