- Hyperscalers like AWS manage large networks with up to 96% of events mitigated automatically.
- With quantum computing on the rise, securing long-term data with quantum-resistant cryptography is becoming urgent.
What happened: Highlights from AusNOG 2025 on automation, complexity and geopolitics
At AusNOG 2025, Geoff Huston examined the current state of network management, from the evolution of network operation tools to the future challenges of BGP and quantum cryptography. A major highlight was the adoption of automation across hyperscaler networks. Amazon, for instance, remediates 96% of network events automatically, reflecting an era where human intervention in network troubleshooting is increasingly limited.
Huston also pointed out the growing complexity in network management as routers evolve from simple devices to those running hundreds of millions of lines of code. This evolution, while offering more capabilities, also introduces increased risks of failure. To counter this, simpler, more efficient single-chip switches are being explored, promising improved performance and lower costs.
The geopolitical challenges around submarine cables also took centre stage. The rise of hyperscalers has shifted submarine cable ownership from consortium models to fully owned systems by tech giants like Alphabet, Meta, and AWS. This shift has sparked debates over the security risks posed by Chinese companies like Huawei, particularly in contested areas like the South China Sea.
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Why it’s important
The rapid scaling of networks, as seen with companies like Amazon, is forcing the industry to rethink its operational models. Hyperscalers are leading the way in automation, but this could eventually lead to complex systems that may be difficult to manage without AI assistance.
The race for quantum computing could disrupt traditional cryptographic systems. With the possibility of quantum computers breaking today’s encryption algorithms in the near future, there is an urgent push for quantum-resistant cryptography. While this remains an early-stage concern, the push to implement post-quantum cryptographic algorithms is becoming more urgent, especially in sectors that require long-term data integrity.
