Sector Intelligence: Networking & Network Automation

This brief highlights recent updates in networking and network automation developments over the past month.

This brief covers advancements in global 5G connections, enterprise software adoptions, and technology demonstrations relevant to networking and automation technologies.

5G Connections Growth

Global 5G connections reached 2.25 billion at the end of 2024, according to a report from 5G Americas and Omdia. North America led with 289 million connections, marking a 67 percent increase year-over-year. The Internet of Things (IoT) also saw growth, totaling 3.6 billion connections, with 438 million new connections added in 2024.

IP Infusion's OcNOS Adoption

Afribone, a telecommunications provider in Mali, adopted IP Infusion's OcNOS open networking software in place of Cisco and MikroTik equipment. This transition supports an upgrade to Afribone's Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) network, focusing on improving service delivery and enabling better infrastructure for fixed wireless and fiber services.

200G VCSEL Technology Demonstration

Keysight Technologies and Coherent showcased new 200G multimode VCSEL technology at the Optical Fiber Conference (OFC). This technology aims to enhance data throughput in data center, targeting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications.

Mainframe Optimization in the Public Sector

Information Services Group reported rising interest in mainframe optimization among U.S. state and local governments due to AI advancements. Agencies are assessing AI models for effective data management in light of budget constraints and evolving technology landscapes.

Bitwarden's Recognition

Bitwarden was named one of the fastest-growing applications in the 2025 Okta Businesses at Work report, reflecting its adoption in enterprise password management amidst growing demands for security tools.

Bitdefender's Distribution Partnership

Bitdefender formed a distribution partnership with Techs + Together to offer its cybersecurity solutions to managed service providers. The partnership promises flexible billing and comprehensive support, enhancing cybersecurity capabilities for service providers.

Corning's GlassWorks AI Solutions

Corning launched its GlassWorks AI solutions, including the Contour Flow Cable, which aims to improve high-density fiber deployments needed for AI applications in data center.

SONiC PlugFest and Deployment Validation

Aviz Networks hosted the SONiC PlugFest, validating critical use cases for the Software for Open Networking in the Cloud (SONiC). The event reaffirmed SONiC's deployment capabilities in various networking environments and potential cost savings for enterprises adopting its technologies.

Conclusion

The updates from the past month showcase ongoing advancements and collaborations that enhance networking and network automation strategies in various industries. Organizations looking to optimize their networking technologies can find further insights in the linked articles.

1. Global 5G connections reach 2.25 billion by end of 2024
   5G connections reached 2.25 billion in 2024, with North America lead at 289 million and IoT connections totaling 3.6 billion.
2. Afribone adopts IP Infusion's OcNOS for network upgrade
   Afribone, a Mali provider, adopts IP Infusion's OcNOS to upgrade its MPLS network, replacing Cisco and MikroTik equipment.
3. Keysight and Coherent unveil 200G multimode VCSEL technology at OFC
   Keysight Technologies and Coherent Corp. showcase 200G multimode VCSEL technology aimed at improving data transfer in data center.
4. AI shifts public sector strategies on mainframes
   Information Services Group cites a growing interest in mainframe optimization among state and local governments in the U.S.
5. Bitwarden recognized as one of the fastest growing apps in 2025 Okta report
   Bitwarden is noted as the only password management tool in the Okta Businesses at Work 2025 report's top ten list.
6. Bitdefender and Techs + Together form distribution partnership for MSPs
   Bitdefender and Techs + Together form a distribution partnership for cybersecurity solutions aimed at managed service providers.
7. Corning launches GlassWorks AI solutions for data center
   Corning launched GlassWorks AI solutions, featuring the Contour Flow Cable, enhancing data center fiber deployments.
8. Aviz Networks hosts SONiC PlugFest, confirming enterprise readiness and cost advantages
   SONiC PlugFest validated key deployment use cases, showcasing capabilities in virtualized networking and AI-powered workloads.
9. Sector Intelligence: Data Center Security and AI Enhancements in March 2025
   This brief highlights recent developments across data center strategy, compute infrastructure, and High performance computing (HPC) over the past month.
10. Daily Signals: Atos Contract, Island Funding, Nokia Optical Solutions
    Recent updates include Atos' contract with DEFRA, Island's funding round, and Nokia's optical networking solutions at OFC50.
11. Forescout Technologies identifies vulnerabilities in solar power systems
    A report reveals that 80% of recently disclosed vulnerabilities in solar systems are classified as high or critical severity.
12. Netcracker Technology to support U.S. Paralympic Team at Adaptive Spirit
    Attendees at Adaptive Spirit can network and meet Andrew Kurka while participating in activities to support Team USA athletes.
13. Frontier Communications named one of America’s Most Innovative Companies
    CEO Nick Jeffery discusses Frontier's focus on expanding fiber technology use across various sectors, boosting innovation.
14. CISA adds two vulnerabilities to its catalog
    CISA adds CVE-2019-9874 and CVE-2019-9875 to its catalog, urging organizations to address identified cyber vulnerabilities.
15. Calix ranks 11th on Fast Company's 2025 list of innovative companies
    CEO Michael Weening highlighted Calix's commitment to innovation in broadband services contributing to community growth.
16. Mirantis launches k0rdent Application Catalog with 19 integrations
    Mirantis launches k0rdent Application Catalog with 19 validated integrations to enhance cloud-native and AI workload management.
17. Lumentum R300 Optical Circuit Switch (OCS) targets AI data center scalability
    Lumentum has begun sampling its R300 OCS for AI data center, with General Availability (GA) expected in late 2025.