Amidst an increasingly volatile geopolitical climate, Orange Wholesale’s CEO, Michaël Trabbia, underscores the importance of owning network assets and employing network software-isation to ensure network resilience and strategic independence. This approach is gaining traction as telecommunication companies worldwide seek robust defenses against disruptions and cyberattacks.
Network resilience has emerged as a crucial component for telecom operators, and Trabbia believes it can be enhanced through asset ownership. This ensures that operators have control over their infrastructure rather than relying heavily on third-party resources. With this strategy, companies like Orange are better positioned to manage their networks independently and respond effectively to any issues.
Furthermore, network software-isation—by transitioning infrastructures into cloud-native and software-based environments—offers operators enhanced flexibility. This flexibility allows for faster deployment of new services and increased adaptation to technological advancements. Adopting this approach helps operators stay competitive while optimizing their network operations, which proves beneficial in an industry characterized by rapid technological changes.
However, implementing these strategies is not without challenges. Asset ownership demands substantial capital investment and long-term commitment. Maintaining and upgrading owned infrastructure can strain resources. Meanwhile, advancing towards network software-isation requires significant changes in traditional business processes and requires skilled professionals adept in cutting-edge technologies.
One notable aspect of enhancing network resilience is the adoption of open standards and shared infrastructure. By collaborating and sharing resources, operators can reduce costs and leverage a wider pool of expertise. This collaborative approach could be instrumental in realizing the full potential of software-driven networks.
Enterprises increasingly rely on network-as-a-service (NaaS) models. This shift reflects the broader trend towards flexible, on-demand service models that many industries are adopting. Yet, making this transition can be complex and requires overcoming traditional operational concerns.
In summary, Orange Wholesale CEO Michaël Trabbia’s vision emphasizes that asset ownership and network software-isation are key to crafting resilient and independent networks in a challenging geopolitical landscape. The benefits include improved network control, faster service deployment, and flexibility. However, these strategies demand considerable investment, skilled personnel, and a shift from traditional telecommunication operations. Operators navigating this transition could unlock significant advantages in an ever-evolving industry landscape.
