Connectivity: definition, challenges, and technologies | UltraEdge
With the rapid growth of the Internet of Things, as well as all the new technologies that are constantly being developed, the concept of connectivity is everywhere. It is connectivity that connects users to their connected devices and businesses to their servers. In every digital interaction and every online service, an entire network is activated without us even realizing it. Here is everything you need to know about connectivity, its impacts, and the technologies associated with it.
Its importance in an IT environment
Key concepts to remember
The concept of connectivity is the very foundation of IT (information technology) environments. It refers to the ability of a device or system to exchange data with other equipment or a network. Connectivity is thus achieved between different hardware, software, and network elements.
Evolution of connectivity architectures
Connectivity has evolved significantly in just a few decades. Originally, connections were mainly made via cables. Copper networks were then gradually replaced by wireless networks (Wi-Fi, 5G, etc.). Today, new hybrid technologies are being developed, such as Li-Fi, which uses light to transmit data. Over time, connectivity has adapted to the mobility and immediacy needs of businesses and individuals.
Connectivity technologies
Wired, wireless, or hybrid networks
Connection technologies can take different forms:
• Wired systems: these include fiber optics, Ethernet, and PLC (power line communication). Fast and stable technologies.
• Wireless networks: these include Wi-Fi, particularly the latest version, Wi-Fi 7, which is five times faster than Wi-Fi 6. They also include 4G and 5G mobile networks, as well as Bluetooth and its BLE version.
• Hybrid networks: these include Li-fi (light fidelity) , which uses visible light to transmit data, as well as 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA).
Industrial IoT: what kind of connectivity?
Initially, business connectivity in industry was provided via Ethernet or PLC. Today, other solutions that are just as fast and reliable are available to manufacturers, particularly with the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things. Industries have equipped themselves with devices capable of collecting, transmitting, and analyzing data in real time and storing it in the cloud. They therefore need a fast, reliable, and secure connection. To create the necessary gateways between physical equipment, software, and online or cloud services, companies and industries can rely on wired or wireless networks such as Wi-Fi, 5G, Bluetooth, private and secure 3GPP, or Low-Power Wide Area (LPWA).
5G: Challenges for businesses and most common uses
Today's 5G network offers significantly higher speeds than 4G, greatly reduced latency, and wider coverage. For businesses, it opens up a whole new range of possibilities. Connection to a larger number of connected objects, remote control capabilities, immersive uses (VR, mobile robots, etc.)...Standalone 5G devient incontournable dans le retail, la logistique, et bientôt dans le concept de Smart City.
Operational challenges and potential impacts
Cybersecurity and resilient networks
Connection methods have evolved, and with wireless networks, cybersecurity risks have also increased. Encryption, control, and segmentation systems have become a necessity to limit the risks of hacking and data leaks.
Since almost everything today relies on IT, it is also essential to ensure service continuity. Opting for a resilient network is therefore key. It allows the IT system to continue functioning in the event of hacking, but also in the event of a failure or sudden increase in data flows.
Unequal access: how can service continuity be ensured?
Even in a highly connected society, there are still areas without coverage. These areas with little or no service pose a real problem for individuals and businesses alike. Businesses need to take this into account when planning for service continuity. How? By providing backup lines and alternative technologies, among other measures.
Energy performance
Energy efficiency and connectivity do not seem to go hand in hand. The connectivity of data centers is a regular topic of debate. Connection needs are only increasing, but solutions are emerging to reduce the environmental impact (more compact data centers, more efficient cooling systems, green energy, etc.). On the other hand, certain technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are helping businesses increase their energy performance, notably by analyzing consumption in real time to optimize it further.
Applications: real-world examples
Smart City: towards a new urban infrastructure
Smart City concept first appeared in the early 2000s. It refers to an area capable of using information technology to improve citizens' quality of life and services, as well as the functioning and cost of those services. Today, the concept also includes the notions of energy performance and resource management in order to combine technology and ecology. To achieve this, smart cities rely heavily on artificial intelligence and the IoT.
What kind of connectivity is used in data centers?
Data center connectivity consists of two elements:
• Internal connectivity: this concerns connections within the data center itself (servers, routers, sensors, storage systems, etc.).
• External connectivity: this connects the data center to the outside world, i.e., to end customers and other service providers.
There are many different types of connections used in data centers. Data centers use both wired and wireless networks: fiber optics, Ethernet, LAN, MAN, and WAN networks. All of this is done to ensure the reliability and continuity of services.
Key trends and emerging technologies
Edge computing and adaptive networks
Various trends and technologies are emerging in the connectivity sector. This is particularly true of edge computing, which is somewhat opposed to cloud computing. In cloud computing, data is stored, produced, and processed in a data center located far from the user. With edge computing, the user is brought closer to their data in order to speed up response times and reduce bandwidth.
Adaptive networks are gradually becoming the norm. They rely in particular on artificial intelligence, but also on SDN (Software Defined Networking) and network function virtualization (NFV) to automate tasks and adjust in real time to user needs.
Real-time connectivity and ultra-low latency
Current and future uses require the most instantaneous connectivity possible. The most advanced technologies, such as 5G and fiber optics, enable this immediate connection while reducing latency. Edge computing also plays a central role in improving responsiveness. With a network of 250 data centers throughout France, Ultra Edge supports you in developing a high-performance infrastructure.