The importance of business fibre in cloud computing for enterprises

Digital transformation is driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and reshaping the way businesses and societies operate. Cloud computing is at the very centre of this transformation as it enables scalable and flexible access to computing resources. The cloud supports the adoption of innovative technologies which support business growth and is becoming the source of the digital tools we use everyday.

Underpinning the digital revolution is the need for high-speed business fibre. Fibre optic connections facilitate high-speed transfer of data, making it possible for enterprises to support remote work, harness the power of big data analytics and enhance the user experience.

Upgrades to the fibre network support digitisation

Fibre connectivity is superior to other connectivity options for cloud computing because it offers a high-speed connection with increased bandwidth, low latency and greater reliability. It enables businesses to efficiently leverage cloud-based applications and services for digital transformation. A new generation of fibre optics is now available in South Africa, boosting high-speed intercontinental data transfers and offering true seamless connectivity.

The Equiano cable went live in early 2023 and improves digital connectivity throughout the region. With a capacity of 144 terabytes per second (Tbps), Equiano enhances the capacity of cloud computing, offering South African enterprises increased bandwidth and lower latency. Businesses that embrace digital transformation and leverage cloud computing can greatly benefit from the implementation of this new generation of business fibre connectivity.

Benefits of fibre for digitisation

Fibre internet serves as a critical enabler for digital transformation. It supports remote teams and enhances the customer experience through faster and more reliable internet connectivity. Big data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) applications are greatly improved with a high-speed line. For many organisations, these processes are moving to the cloud and high-speed fibre is essential for these digital transformation initiatives.

One of the key advantages of a high-speed connection is that organisations can transfer and access data rapidly and efficiently. With fibre connectivity, businesses enjoy significantly faster upload and download speeds compared to traditional broadband. This facilitates seamless data transfers and smooth cloud computing operations.

Enterprise grade connectivity is the most reliable form of internet and is critical in supporting anything related to the cloud. For example, if a development team is working on instances in AWS, they don’t just need a fast internet line, they also need a line that is stable.

Increased bandwidth is another significant benefit of business fibre connectivity. As businesses generate and process large volumes of data in real time, having ample bandwidth is essential.

With fibre connectivity, businesses experience higher bandwidth capacities, allowing for more data-intensive applications and making way for the use of emerging technologies. The Equiano cable supports approximately 20 times more networking capacity than what was previously available. This is essential for the real-time communication aspect of cloud computing.

Low latency and greater reliability are two other interrelated benefits of business fibre connectivity. Enterprise grade fibre connections offer minimal delays in data transmission (low latency), allowing for quicker response times and real-time interactions, while also providing robustness and stability (greater reliability). This results in uninterrupted access to critical business data and resources.

A combination of low latency and greater reliability makes fibre connectivity an ideal choice for businesses seeking efficient and dependable cloud-based applications and services to support their digital transformation efforts. Advancements in fibre-optic technology brought about by Equiano, mean that local businesses now have access to reduced latency speeds of about 110 milliseconds between South Africa and Europe.

Best practices for leveraging business fibre connectivity

Cloud-based applications require a robust infrastructure that is scalable and secure. As such, IT teams should begin by conducting a thorough assessment of their network requirements. This involves evaluating factors such as bandwidth needs and scalability demands.

By conducting a comprehensive assessment, IT leaders can make informed decisions when selecting a fibre connectivity solution that aligns with their unique needs and goals. This step sets the foundation for a successful implementation of fibre connectivity for cloud computing and digital transformation.

Once the network requirements have been established, teams should carefully choose the right fibre connectivity solution. There are various options available, such as Direct Internet Access (DIA) and Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

Service level agreements (SLAs) will indicate guaranteed uptimes and security protocols. Organisations are law-bound to protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of cloud-based data, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded from unauthorised access and other security threats. Before selecting a fibre provider, organisations should carefully consider the fine print outlined in SLAs to ensure a high-quality and secure service.

Future trends and innovations in business connectivity

Digital transformation is not just for businesses operating on the fibre grid. With advancements such as LEO satellites, businesses throughout South Africa can expect improved connectivity. Where fibre connections are not yet financially viable because of low demand, these technologies offer a promising alternative.

For example, banks can install ATMs in remote locations, giving local communities access to the traditional banking sector. The mining industry is also set to benefit from the emergence of LEO satellite connectivity, particularly when operating far from major metropolitan areas.

If your company is looking for enterprise connectivity, including fibre internet, get in touch with SEACOM Business. For more information or to get a quote for our connectivity solutions, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM operates Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including multiple subsea cables and secure internet connections tracing both sides of the continent. This is partnered with broad terrestrial fibre networks in Southern and East Africa, extending services to these regions.

Today, SEACOM provides holistic ICT solutions covering connectivity, cyber security, cloud, smart networking and communication products that provide African businesses with the necessary building blocks to deliver world-class solutions to their clients. We are privately owned and operated, making us agile and adaptable to the needs of our customers.

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