Technology has spearheaded many changes in the telecom industry. One such change is the shift to cloud-based solutions, which plays a significant role in the dynamic telecom era. The rising competition and the immense benefits associated with it have led to a migration to cloud-based solutions.
Enhanced security, high level of scalability, expansion of reach globally, and cost-efficiency are vital points that explain the need for a shift. Companies will witness improved efficiency in performance and more agility in operations with a change to the cloud. A Gartner survey reveals that 85% of organizations will shift to cloud solutions by 2025, which is a positive sign, given its advantages.
This blog delves deep into the relationship between telecom and cloud computing, the various benefits of cloud computing, and strategies to navigate the shift.
Cloud-based solutions and telecom: The transformation
Cloud-based integration can redefine the telecom industry and help in its transformation. Some aspects of the architecture of cloud computing can be compiled as follows:
1. Virtualization
Creating a virtual instead of the physical version of aspects, such as server, hardware, operating system, etc., is called virtualization. Multiple virtual systems can be stored on a single server and run on a single system simultaneously.
Virtualization is highly energy-saving and cost-effective since multiple applications and operating systems can be run using the same hardware. It can save huge amounts of money that would otherwise be required to be paid to cloud service providers. It is also easily sharable and scalable.
2. Network-function virtualization (NFV)
In NFV, network hardware is replaced with virtual machines. They perform the same functions as traditional hardware, but communication services are separated from dedicated hardware such as routers, firewalls, and load balancing.
Instead of proprietary software, NFV can run on generic servers, thus reducing costs. It is much simpler and more flexible than the traditional hardware. Since the network runs on virtual machines, functionality can be increased or changed based on demand, thus making NFV highly scalable.
3. Data storage
A centralised data warehouse or data centre assembles all data in one place to be easily accessed and managed. Unlike traditional data storage, they are highly flexible and cost-effective. Huge amounts of data that telecom companies require can be stored without spending on physical storage solutions.
A centralised location makes it easier to monitor and control data. It gives a clear view of the data available and allows for analysis based on it. Data stored in centralised data centres are more secure and easily sharable with stakeholders.
4. Multi-access edge computing
Edge computing brings data closer to its source or where it is generated. It is a distributed framework that brings many benefits, such as low latency, high bandwidth, security in cloud computing, and performance improvements.
Edge computing offers great potential to the telecom sector. It makes the industry more efficient and highly competitive. Considerable improvements can be seen in applications such as augmented reality and IoT.
Edge computing operates on the policy of decentralization. Devices and electronic systems can work independently to collect data.
Benefits of cloud-based solutions in telecom
1. Cost-reduction
Storage on the cloud can dramatically reduce costs by minimizing spending on hardware and other physical resources. The pay-as-you-go model facilitates payment only for the resources used, thereby minimizing capital expenditure.
Telecom industries can refine their budgets and focus on other crucial aspects, which helps optimize resources.
2. Scalability
Scaling up or down based on demand becomes easier with cloud-based solutions as there is no requirement or expense for physical storage expansion. This facilitates improvements in efficiency in the telecom sector.
Significant savings in cost can also be experienced with scalability since there is no scope for underutilization of resources.
3. Flexibility
With emerging market conditions, telecom companies should be flexible and adapt to them to remain relevant. Cloud-based solutions enable this flexibility in managing their infrastructure.
Due to this feature, telecom companies can remain competitive by testing and adopting new applications. Flexibility is also achieved in resource allocation, allowing companies to scale up and down based on demand.
4. Agility
Telecom companies can quickly respond to customer demands by rapidly deploying updates to services. This enables them to be more customer-centric and thus improves relationships. This quality is significant for a business to survive in the digital era.
Navigating the shift to cloud-based solutions
The following aspects can be considered as a guide for the transition to cloud-based solutions by telecom companies:
1. Planning
Analyzing the current infrastructure to determine suitability for migration to the cloud is essential. This will help develop strategies for easy migration to the cloud. Given the numerous benefits of shifting to cloud-based solutions, it is essential to establish the goals first so that the planning becomes easier.
2. Choice of the cloud service provider
Cost, support available, experience, service quality, reliability, etc., help choose the best service provider. The final choice should be made after comparing different service providers.
3. Cloud model
There are different cloud models, such as public, private, and hybrid. The choice depends on the organization’s goals and factors such as cost and data sensitivity. The type of cloud model chosen is important for choosing a particular cloud service provider.
4. Data migration
Data migration from the existing systems to the cloud should be smooth, consistent, and secure. Once migration is over, testing should be done to validate the integrity of the data.
5. Staff training
The staff should be familiarised with the new cloud environment. This is done through proper training. They should be able to understand the needs and advantages of migration and adapt to it.
6. Execution
The migration plan to the cloud should be done in stages, carefully analysing the progress to identify any issues.
7. Continuity of operations
Businesses should anticipate any breach in the cloud and prepare a disaster recovery plan that ensures continuity in operations. A backup mechanism should be in place to address any changes in the cloud environment. The business continuity plan also needs frequent review to ensure its relevance.
VNT and telecom solutions
We at VNT are driven by the mission to deliver innovative solutions. With our rich experience, we support the sustainable development of the nation. We adhere to standards and regulations to ensure our products help our customers improve their efficiency.
We offer many products to support the telecom sector, such as Super High-Efficiency SMPS, Small Cell solutions, SNMP Gateway, and Smart Controller.
Connect with us today to learn more about our telecom solutions!
