Corporate networks are going through a key moment of transformation. Driven by the proliferation of AI agents, connected devices and hybrid work models, network infrastructure is no longer only a connectivity platform, but a strategic pillar for growth, innovation and defense against digital threats. This is confirmed by the latest report Networking Trends Prepared by Cisco, which analyzes how technological priorities are evolving in organizations.
One of the main findings of the study is that 95% of those responsible for IT in Spain consider that a modernized network is essential to display technologies such as AI, IoT or cloud. In addition, 84% plans to increase the proportion of the budget for network infrastructure, which reveals a change of mentality: the network is no longer perceived as a mere technical support, but as a key asset for competitiveness.
In the words of Chintan Patel, Director of Technology and VP of Solution Engineering in Cisco Emea, “The AI is changing everything, and the infrastructure is fundamental in that reinvention. The network has driven each wave of digital transformation (…) and those who act now will be the ones who lead the AI era”.
The safety and stability of the network have become critical priorities. 98% of Spanish organizations recognize the importance of having a safe network for their operation and expansion, while 40% already consider it of critical mission. In addition, 91% of sector leaders believe that the improvement of the network will directly strengthen their cybersecurity strategy.
Those responsible for the network as a strategic priority before the rise of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the need for operational resilience
The pressure on the networks is intensified as IA demands more dynamic and latency sensitive environments. In Spain, 73% of companies have suffered relevant interruptions due to cyber attacks, saturation or configuration errors, with an average cost per incident that amounts to 250,000 euros.
Intelligent networks: key to income, efficiency and sustainability
The economic impact of a modernized network is another of the great shift levers. More than half of you identify in the automation of processes with one of the main income generation routes. At the same time, 84% believe that a smarter and more adaptable infrastructure will help reduce operational costs thanks to lower manual intervention, more efficient management and lower energy consumption.
Despite this, the path to truly intelligent networks still has obstacles: only 39% of Spanish companies have already deployed capacities such as segmentation or advanced visibility. The main barriers include isolated systems, incomplete implementations and excessive dependence on human supervision.
The support of senior management
IT teams are not alone in this transformation process. The report shows that 97% of CEOs are accelerating the adoption of AI in their companies and 78% trust their cios and ctos to lead infrastructure investment decisions. However, they are aware of the challenge: 74% admit that their current systems represent a brake on growth.
In this context, almost all of the senior executives (96%) consider that collaborating with trusted technological partners will be decisive so that their companies can successfully navigate this new phase of digital reinvention.
