Cisco’s first State of Industrial Networking report highlights key investment areas for industrial organizations, focusing on the critical roles of cybersecurity and AI in improving operations.
Cisco Inauguration Report on the state of industrial networks The report highlights key areas of investment for industrial companies, with a focus on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). Based on a survey of 1,000 people from different sectors, the report reveals the critical importance of these technologies in overcoming internal and external growth barriers.
Cybersecurity: a major concern
The report reveals that 89% of respondents view cybersecurity compliance as very important, highlighting widespread concern about cybersecurity risks. These risks are identified as the top internal barrier to growth and a significant external barrier. Challenges in maintaining industrial infrastructure are primarily cybersecurity-related, with 39% of respondents citing vulnerabilities in legacy systems, malware attacks on industrial control systems (ICS), and insider threats as significant issues.
While acknowledging the need for collaboration between IT and OT teams when it comes to cybersecurity, 41% of respondents admit that these teams operate independently. This disjointed approach highlights a significant area for improvement. Many believe AI could fill this gap, with 46% of respondents suggesting that AI deployment will drive greater collaboration between IT and OT, improving network management and cybersecurity.
AI: An Emerging Catalyst for Investment and Collaboration
AI is a major spending priority, with companies viewing it as a transformative technology for industrial organizations. The report found that 31% of respondents prioritized investments in AI-enabled devices, making it the most important area of focus, followed closely by cybersecurity solutions (30%). This investment trend reflects growing confidence in AI’s potential to revolutionize industrial operations.
Nearly half of respondents expect AI to improve reliability and meet stringent cybersecurity requirements. In addition, AI is expected to facilitate better network management in IT and OT, addressing one of the key challenges facing industrial companies. AI deployment is seen as a way to improve collaboration, efficiency, and security, positioning it as a cornerstone of future industrial technology strategies.
Cisco’s report highlights the pivotal role of AI and cybersecurity in the industrial sector. As businesses navigate the complexities of modern industrial operations, integrating these technologies is critical to mitigating risk, improving collaboration, and driving growth. The findings suggest a clear trajectory for future investments, with AI and cybersecurity leading the way in shaping the industrial landscape.
