25 April 2024 9:04 am
MENA looks ahead to networking drive

MENA looks ahead to networking drive

Jan 3, 2024

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Computer Weekly‘s  FEATURE is all about networking and it implies in everyone’s life to not only join those with a good advance in the matter but above all serve its public requirements . . .

The above image is credit to WASIM ALNAHLAWI – STOCK.ADOBE.CO

MENA looks ahead to networking drive

The networking industry has been traditionally defined by generational advances in technology first deployed in markets such as North America, Europe and Asia Pacific – and before too long, the Middle East and North Africa region will be joining this club

By Joe O’Halloran, Computer Weekly

Published: 03 Jan 2024
Last year saw firms increasingly phase out multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) infrastructures, leading to the continued adoption of software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN), along with the commensurate rise of its next evolutionary step, secure access service edge (SASE).

Another key trend of 2023 was the arrival of artificial intelligence (AI) into networking services, including not only collaboration and contact centre environments to boost user and customer experiences, but also to act as an essential assistant in assessing networking management and observability.

Yet there was another important geographic trend in 2023, namely the increasing importance of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in networking. And this shift is set to gain more momentum in 2024 as the region’s major economies slug it out to gain technology leadership over the remainder of the decade.

The transition first gained traction over the course of the pandemic, with a hybrid workforce changing how modern IT and networking leaders ensure their business can cope by shifting to cloud services based on distributed, centralised management. And perhaps there was no region which better exemplified this trend than in the major MENA countries, notably the United Arab Emirates, where massive, accelerated investment in state-of-the-art networking infrastructures had come to the fore and was demonstrated clearly at the reconvened Gitex Global show in 2021.

The event at the Dubai World Trade Centre was a show of strength of how network technology had evolved. It displayed how the way enterprises changed in the wake of remote work, wanting specific expertise in building better experiences, leading to every business needing to orchestrate memorable moments that shape customer and employee engagement, satisfaction and loyalty.

Fast forward to 2023 and the 43rd edition of Gitex Global, centred at the World Trade Centre and breakout Expand North Star at Dubai Harbour, hosted more than 6,000 exhibitors for a combined total of 41 halls spanning 2.7 million ft2 of exhibition space, a 40% growth year on year (YoY), with 1,800 startups across both shows.

Comms technology and services firm Avaya unveiled a Generative CX concept showing how artificial intelligence can sit at the core of experience transformation. The plan will see the generative AI (GenAI) technology and capabilities integrated within the core Avaya Experience Platform (AXP) to help CX practitioners implement workflows and glean precise, actionable insights with the stroke of a keyboard.

Avaya said that its customers were looking to bring AI into their contact centres on a large scale, and in a way that brings AI to the core of their CX transformation. The launch was aimed at demonstrating how AI can also be extended to the heart of contact centres, creating workflows, reports and helping agents better serve customers.

As it was explaining the concept, the firm announced a number of key customer wins with global oil and lubricants company Motul, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, and renowned doctor Magdi Yacoub’s Heart Foundation. Weeks later, it announced a contract with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).

Another company keen to show off its MENA proposition at Gitex was comms giant Huawei. Explaining the range of opportunities that his firm saw in the locality, Alaa Elshimy, managing director and senior vice-president of Huawei’s enterprise business group in the Middle East and Central Asian region, said that the company’s presence was in line with its vision for a fully connected world and that it would work closely with MENA customers to make their experience unique.

In the enterprise sector, Elshimy made particular note of storage networking, data centre cloud software, optical connectivity, 5G and LTE, and that it would build a number of vertical solutions for different industries. In mining, for example, Huawei said it was looking to make dangerous operations almost completely autonomous to reduce the number of accidents. It was able to demonstrate to the MENA region how it could run autonomous vehicles using virtual reality and remote controls to drive trucks.

Another important local application of the core technology was in smart pipelines. Such deployments are intended to prevent interruptions to oil production and supply such as leakages and losses caused by deliberate damage to facilities. Huawei can lay down fibre cable next to the pipeline – as far as thousands of kilometres and powered passively – and then use smart cameras, acoustics and machine learning technology to detect any intrusion.

Elshimy noted that the accuracy of the detection is about five metres and can be implemented across more than 50,000 kilometres of smart pipeline across the Middle East. The smart pipeline solutions complement other such smart tech deployed in MENA by governments, in smart cities and public services, education, healthcare and transportation. Sustainability was a key part of these solutions, Elshimy added, noting the energy efficient technology that it had deployed for the fabricated datacentre at Dubai airport.

Only a short flight away from the latter venue, Huawei was ramping up operations in a strategic, long-term move for the MENA region, potentially indicating where the smart money in smart tech will be heading. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 project is commonly associated with the futuristic NEOM megacity project, totally reimagining not only a city, but the country. For any of this to be realised, however, Saudi Arabia’s comms infrastructure and technological advancement has to be reimagined.

The 2023 launch of the Huawei Cloud Riyadh Region is seen by the comms tech giant as an achievement underscoring the cloud business’s “unwavering” dedication to supporting Vision 2030, aligned with the nation’s technological advancement, leadership and innovation goals.

In addition to the new Riyadh cloud region helping to promote digital-led economic growth in the country, Saudi Arabia will be Huawei Cloud’s focus in serving the Middle East, Central Asia and Africa. Through a 3AZ (availability zone) architecture, the new region is described as being built to provide reliable, secure and sustainable cloud services. It will offer full-stack cloud services, including infrastructure, databases, containers, big data and AI services to meet the requirements of various industries.

Orange Business also made significant steps to boost its Saudi presence, deploying its Smart City Platform to optimise user experience for citizens living and working in the prime location of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in the city of Riyadh. It said this would result in the location’s elevation to the next level of smart city that will optimise urban operations, making them better, faster and safer.

The KAFD deployment has seen Orange Business design, build and run a new end-to-end platform, integrating AI and data analytics into existing KAFD digital infrastructure. Orange Business is providing a range of digital master systems integration services, as well as orchestrating its partner ecosystem by working alongside company experts on systems integration for smart city systems compatible with a range of technologies.

Use cases include geolocation-based sentiment analysis of social media, analysing, collating and sharing contextual data in areas ranging from water supply to traffic situation awareness, and energy optimisation across commercial office buildings. Orange Business added that by integrating a digital twin with the Smart City Platform, architects and engineers will be able to analyse real-time data to optimise building design.

“The increasing wave of urbanisation across the world is set to uncover a $517bn market for smart city solutions, with an annual growth rate of 25%, a fact that plays into KAFD’s objectives of building a future-proof and business-friendly hub in Riyadh,” said Gautam Sashittal, CEO of King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC). “A major step in that direction, our partnership with Orange Business will further strengthen our drive to become a global pioneer in smart urban development.”

And there’s a massive ambition to build in Saudi. At the same time, it would be almost impossible to assume that the UAE and the city of Dubai in particular will let its current leadership position slip without a fight.

Gitex in Dubai is only to be bigger and better in 2024 and the show is ramping up its recent expansion to Africa as well as looking at Europe in 2025.

At the end of 2023, Bahrain’s leading telco provider announced a deal to implement 400G capacity optical network technology connectivity across the country, and operator Du revealed the successful conclusion of the UAE’s first 5G-Advanced 5G reduced capability (RedCap) trial over a commercial network.

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5G and Smart Cities

5G and Smart Cities

Dec 27, 2023

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5G and Smart Cities in Medium are all about all technological advances and their usage in the management of all existing and/or developing urban space.  What do Building Connected and Efficient Urban Spaces look like?  So here is:

5G and Smart Cities: Building Connected and Efficient Urban Spaces

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In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements, the fusion of 5G technology and the concept of smart cities emerges as a transformative force. As populations continue to gravitate toward urban areas, cities worldwide grapple with challenges such as traffic congestion, resource management, and infrastructure efficiency. However, the integration of 5G offers a beacon of hope, promising unprecedented connectivity and innovation. This article delves into the symbiotic relationship between 5G and smart cities, elucidating how this synergy paves the way for connected, efficient, and sustainable urban spaces.
  1. Understanding Smart Cities

Before diving into the role of 5G, it’s imperative to comprehend the essence of smart cities. At their core, smart cities leverage data-driven strategies to enhance urban living, encompassing sectors like transportation, energy, healthcare, and governance. Through the deployment of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, sensors, and advanced analytics, these cities optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve the quality of life for residents.

2. The Advent of 5G: A Game-Changer

5G, the fifth-generation wireless technology, transcends its predecessors by delivering unparalleled speed, ultra-low latency, and enhanced connectivity. Unlike 4G, which primarily catered to smartphones and basic IoT devices, 5G accommodates a myriad of devices, from autonomous vehicles to augmented reality applications. This leap in technology empowers smart cities to operate with unprecedented efficiency, responsiveness, and scalability.

3. Transforming Transportation and Mobility

One of the most palpable impacts of integrating 5G into smart cities lies in revolutionizing transportation and mobility. With ultra-low latency, 5G enables real-time data transmission, facilitating seamless communication between vehicles, traffic lights, and infrastructural elements. Consequently, cities can implement intelligent traffic management systems, reduce congestion, and enhance road safety. Furthermore, autonomous vehicles, powered by 5G connectivity, promise to redefine urban mobility, minimizing accidents and optimizing traffic flow.

4. Enhancing Public Safety and Security

In an increasingly interconnected world, public safety stands paramount. By harnessing the capabilities of 5G, smart cities can deploy advanced surveillance systems, intelligent monitoring, and emergency response mechanisms. High-definition cameras, sensors, and AI-driven analytics empower authorities to detect anomalies, respond swiftly to emergencies, and safeguard public spaces. Additionally, 5G facilitates the integration of drones for surveillance, disaster management, and search-and-rescue operations, augmenting city resilience and security.

5. Fostering Sustainable Infrastructure

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of modern urban planning. By amalgamating 5G and smart city initiatives, municipalities can monitor energy consumption, optimize resource allocation, and reduce environmental footprint. Smart grids, powered by 5G connectivity, enable efficient energy distribution, minimize wastage, and integrate renewable energy sources seamlessly. Moreover, sensor-driven waste management systems, intelligent water supply networks, and green infrastructure initiatives underscore the commitment to building eco-friendly, resilient urban ecosystems.

6. Empowering Citizens: The Human Element

Beyond technological advancements, the convergence of 5G and smart cities prioritizes citizen-centric solutions. By fostering community engagement, transparency, and inclusivity, municipalities can harness collective intelligence, address community needs, and foster social cohesion. Digital platforms, mobile applications, and interactive interfaces empower residents to participate in governance, access essential services, and shape the future of their communities. This democratization of urban planning ensures that smart cities remain equitable, accessible, and responsive to diverse population needs.

Conclusion

The integration of 5G and smart cities heralds a new era of urban innovation, connectivity, and efficiency. By leveraging the transformative potential of 5G technology, municipalities worldwide can navigate contemporary challenges, optimize resource utilization, and enhance the quality of life for billions. As cities continue to evolve, the symbiotic relationship between 5G and smart cities underscores the imperative of embracing technological innovation, fostering sustainability, and prioritizing citizen well-being. As we stand on the precipice of urban evolution, the fusion of 5G and smart cities beckons a future defined by connectivity, collaboration, and collective progress.

By embracing this paradigm shift, stakeholders, policymakers, and innovators can collaboratively sculpt a landscape where cities not only thrive but also serve as crucibles of innovation, resilience, and inclusivity. As we embark on this transformative journey, the promise of connected, efficient urban spaces fueled by 5G technology remains within reach, awaiting realization through visionary leadership, strategic investment, and unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter, sustainable future for generations to come.

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This simple and smart solution could solve cities’ extreme heat problem

This simple and smart solution could solve cities’ extreme heat problem

Sep 8, 2023

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In the MENA region, where shading, because of the prevailing climate, has been for millennia and still is one of the most important architectural elements for all built structures of the past, this simple and smart solution could solve cities’ extreme heat problem exposure.

The above-featured image is for illustration and is credit to TENSILE FABRIC SHADE

 

This simple and smart solution could solve cities’ extreme heat problem

Gensler spent three years researching how to mitigate extreme heat in vulnerable communities.
[Photo: courtesy Gensler]
BY ELISSAVETA M. BRANDON

Three years ago, the community impact team at the global design, architecture and planning firm Gensler set out to find answers to a question that rises to the very top of every architect’s mind when a heat wave sweeps over a city: What is the fastest, cheapest way to cool down our cities? Or as Amanda Stone, Gensler’s research manager and community impact specialist, put it: “How can we design a design process to create solutions for the built environment that would combat extreme heat?”

The answer Gensler came up with—an adaptable shading structure that can be configured to fit different kinds of public spaces—is by no means a silver bullet that will help cool cities everywhere in the world. But it is worth dwelling on the process that informed it, which could (and should) become a blueprint for any designer or urban planner working with local communities.

[Image: courtesy Gensler]

After receiving three internal research grants to more deeply explore the question, the Gensler team got to work, but it found that answering Stone’s original prompt—which puts an emphasis on the process, not the output—was too broad and complex to come from only one team. And so, it was circulated across Gensler’s broader network of designers and researchers, who then tapped into their own networks in search of community partners who may want to participate.

One of those communities was in the Costa Rican city of Curridabat, which has been suffering the consequences of climate change for years. Paula Badilla, sustainability specialist at Gensler’s Costa Rica office and regional resilience leader for Latin America, explains that Curridabat already had a strong climate action plan and had been measuring things like its heat vulnerability index, urban heat island effects and flood risk across the municipality. But the team didn’t simply rely on those datapoints to inform the design process—they actually asked residents where they felt the hottest.

[Photo: courtesy Gensler]

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the heat maps and residents’ responses didn’t always match, so in Curridabat, the community chose the final three locations based on their own experiences of the city: right outside a human development center, close to a sports field, and in a skatepark with one lone tree.

[Photo: courtesy Gensler]

In those three locations, the team developed a brief for a shading structure, which they turned into an internal competition to design what it would look like. More than 80 people participated across Gensler’s Latin American offices. The winning design ticked all the boxes: it was modular and could therefore be accommodated to fit all tree locations; it was easy enough for the community to build it (and feel a sense of ownership in the process); and it could be made with pretty much any locally found materials—in this case bamboo, rope and canvas. As a bonus, it could also provide more than just shade: residents could use the canvas as a projection screen, or replace it altogether with art, or a trellis for ivy.

https://images.fastcompany.net/image/upload/w_596,c_limit,q_auto:best,f_webm/wp-cms/uploads/2023/09/i-1-90947083-costa-rica-heat.gif

[Image: courtesy Gensler]

To measure the impact the structure will have on the community and how they experience heat, the team is planning to install humidity and temperature trackers on all three structures, then will monitor them over the next three months. They’re also hoping to install CCTV-like cameras to understand who is using the structures (children? teens? parents?) and what they’re using them for. They could, of course, survey residents in a few months, but as project manager Ana Thomas notes: “When you ask people, they tell you things you want to hear, but we need the right information about how they really feel.”

Either way, the findings will not only inform future iterations, but also serve as validation for the community. “The one good thing that I have seen in terms of what really works is knowledge sharing,” says Stone. “It’s gathering the data, gathering the best practices, and sharing those with community members, not keeping it insular.”

Are we smart enough for smart cities?

Are we smart enough for smart cities?

Aug 29, 2023

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The above-featured image is for illustration and is credit to 6gworld.com.

“One of the biggest threats is smart cities’ vulnerability to cyberattacks. This is because using large and connected networks gives cybercriminals more entry points and the perfect opportunity to jump from one exposed system to the next.

Are we smart enough for smart cities?

By Muhammad Yahya Patel

29 August 2023

Research indicates that by 2024, the number of network connections is projected to surpass 1.3 billion. – REUTERSPIC

SMART cities are becoming a reality rather than a concept, and integrating technology into everyday infrastructure has become a norm.

They present local authorities with a vast number of opportunities, including data-driven decision-making, enhanced engagement between citizens and the government and a reduced environmental footprint.

 

As with any new technology, there are risks to consider when developing smart cities.

One of the biggest threats is their vulnerability to cyberattacks. This is because using large and connected networks will give cybercriminals more entry points and the perfect opportunity to jump from one exposed system to the next.

While we should not let fear get in the way of innovation, it is essential that we adequately prepare ourselves with robust security protocols.

Challenges facing smart cities

Smart cities face unique challenges when it comes to cyber security. Networks are used by public and private entities, individuals and thousands of IoT (Internet of Things) devices each day.

The massive amount of data exchanged across these networks require a stringent security strategy. Some of the main challenges include:

Connected devices: A multitude of IoT devices that control everything from CCTV and traffic light management to organisations’ personal and financial data can be connected to a network at any one time. In theory, this sounds ideal for seamless communication and management, but in practice, they offer hackers thousands of potential entry points to launch an attack.

Automation of infrastructure operations: Automation offers numerous advantages across various functions within smart cities, reducing the need for direct human control over such operational systems. However, the proliferation of sensors can result in a greater number of connections to oversee and regulate. These connections can become vulnerable points susceptible to compromise.

Sub-standard data management processes: Data is at the heart of any smart city and is critical to everyday operations. However, many lack the correct processes to ensure this information is managed safely and securely. If a database is not policed correctly, it can be simple for hackers to target, which can lead to sensitive data being leaked, stolen or compromised.

 

Risks from ICT supply chain and vendors: We know the risks posed by supply chains and third parties. These were particularly evident during the recent zero-day vulnerability found in file transfer software MOVEit, which was subsequently exploited as part of a large-scale ransomware attack. Hackers continue to attack the weakest links, making smart infrastructure systems an appealing and lucrative target for them. To combat this, we need to adopt and adhere to secure-by-design and default practices to minimise these risks.

Outdated technology: Many cities have infrastructure and networks built on outdated technology, which leaves them susceptible to cyberattacks. Ensure systems are up to date with the latest software updates and security patches. Technology is central to the success of any smart city, and having resilient systems is a priority.

Inefficient security: Being linked directly to outdated technology, having inefficient security protocols in place can expose smart cities to malicious threats. This can leave individuals and organisations vulnerable to data breaches, identity theft and loss of sensitive information. Protecting existing infrastructure with robust security measures can prevent a potentially disastrous breach.

How do we ensure that the safety, security and privacy of those who live and work in smart cities are not compromised?

Build cyber resilience

Research indicates that by 2024, the number of wide-area network smart city connections is projected to surpass 1.3 billion. The level of complexity within these digital infrastructures is only increasing, which means any digital services implemented by a government or organisation are vulnerable to cyberattacks.

To realise their potential, smart cities need to find an effective balance between managing risk and enabling growth.

Building resilience to protect a smart city against these attacks is key. The starting point should be developing a cyber security strategy that maps out the broader objective of the smart city. This will help mitigate risks arising from the interconnectedness of processes and systems.

Part of any effective strategy should be to assess current data, systems and cyber defences to help give an idea of the current posture and quality of infrastructure.

Creating a formal relationship between cyber security personnel and those in governance of data is also vital. This will create an agreed approach to cyber security between all parties.

This means all stakeholders should work together to ensure that data that is being exchanged is secure across the networks. The policies put in place will mature alongside a city’s cyber strategy and add transparency to processes.

Finally, building strategic partnerships to help address the cyber security skills shortage is key to any successful security strategy. This is a good way to develop skills and increase the knowledge base, which in turn will bolster the overall security posture and resilience.

Get smart and be proactive

Smart city technologies need to adopt a proactive methodology to ensure cyber security risks are at the forefront of the planning and design of technologies.

Being “secure by design” is strongly recommended as a defence-in-depth approach. There may be some legacy infrastructure connecting to the smart infrastructure, and this may require a redesign to make secure connectivity and integration possible.

Hackers will continue to exploit vulnerabilities. An overwhelming number of cyberattacks against businesses can be avoided if supply chains and third-party security are taken seriously.

Attackers are quick to exploit vulnerabilities in well-known products. Invest in resources to help combat the everyday struggle of security patches and updates.

Operational resilience is the cornerstone of smart city technology implementation. To make sure organisations are well prepared, contingencies should be put in place for different types of incidents, which can have operational impact or cause disruption.

Autonomous functionality and isolation tools should exist to help minimise disruption.

Risk, privacy and legality all play an important role in smart cities, making sure data that is collected, stored and processed are in accordance with regulations.

Leaders, developers and business owners think that securing cyber risk within their smart city is a one-time objective. However, it is an ongoing and evolving process that can make a difference between a major breach or major growth.

The writer is the lead security engineer at Check Point Software Technologies.

Read more on The Sundaily.my.

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How European Smart Cities are Tackling Climate Change

How European Smart Cities are Tackling Climate Change

Jul 11, 2023

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By Anna Singh  in Fagen Wasanni 11 July 2023 
The above-featured image is for illustration and is credit to The Times 

The Green Revolution: How European Smart Cities are Tackling Climate Change

The Green Revolution is in full swing across Europe as smart cities rise to the challenge of tackling climate change. These urban areas, equipped with advanced technology and innovative solutions, are leading the charge in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable living.

In the heart of Europe, cities are harnessing the power of technology to create a more sustainable future. They are integrating digital technology into urban infrastructure to improve the quality of life for their residents while simultaneously reducing their environmental impact. This is achieved through a variety of methods, including the use of renewable energy sources, efficient waste management systems, and advanced transportation solutions.

One of the most notable examples of this green revolution is Copenhagen, Denmark. The city has set an ambitious goal to become carbon neutral by 2025. To achieve this, Copenhagen has implemented a wide range of initiatives, such as the installation of wind turbines, the promotion of cycling as a primary mode of transportation, and the creation of green roofs to absorb rainwater and reduce heat.

Similarly, Stockholm, Sweden, is making strides in its quest to become fossil fuel-free by 2040. The city has invested heavily in renewable energy, particularly in the form of biofuels generated from waste. Stockholm also boasts an extensive public transportation system that runs largely on renewable energy, further reducing the city’s carbon footprint.

In Spain, the city of Barcelona is leveraging the power of technology to create a more sustainable urban environment. The city has implemented a smart grid system that allows for more efficient energy use and distribution. Additionally, Barcelona has introduced a comprehensive waste management system that includes the use of sensors to monitor waste levels and optimize collection routes.

Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, the city of Amsterdam is pioneering the use of electric vehicles. The city has installed numerous electric vehicle charging stations and offers incentives for residents to switch to electric cars. Amsterdam also encourages the use of bicycles and public transportation, reducing the reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

These European smart cities are not only reducing their own carbon emissions but also setting an example for other cities worldwide. They demonstrate that it is possible to integrate advanced technology into urban infrastructure in a way that improves the quality of life for residents while also reducing environmental impact.

However, the green revolution is not without its challenges. Implementing these changes requires significant investment and planning. Cities must also work to ensure that these advancements are accessible to all residents, regardless of income level. Despite these hurdles, the progress made by these European smart cities is promising.

The green revolution in European smart cities is a testament to the power of innovation and technology in the fight against climate change. By harnessing renewable energy, promoting sustainable transportation, and implementing efficient waste management systems, these cities are making significant strides towards a more sustainable future. As the world continues to grapple with the realities of climate change, the lessons learned from these smart cities will be invaluable in shaping our global response.

In conclusion, the green revolution is transforming cities across Europe, turning them into bastions of sustainability and innovation. These smart cities are leading the way in the fight against climate change, proving that with the right technology and forward-thinking policies, a sustainable future is within our grasp.

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