The Gartner IOCS 2024 (IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies) Conference in Las Vegas was an electrifying convergence of thought leadership, groundbreaking technologies, and forward-thinking strategies. This year’s focus on AI and automation in network operations reflected a transformative period for IT infrastructure, showcasing how the industry is rapidly adapting to tackle its toughest challenges.
Gartner IOCS continues to set the stage for what’s next in IT operations. This year’s theme centered on resilience, innovation, and automation, with AI emerging as the key enabler for addressing network complexity, driving efficiency, and enhancing operational reliability. From topics like generative AI for Day 0 to Day 2 operations, to addressing the challenges of hybrid and multi-cloud environments, the conference made one thing clear: the IT landscape is no longer just about keeping the lights on, it’s about staying ahead.
This year marked my first time attending Gartner IOCS, and I was blown away by the energy, insights, and sheer scale of the conference. As a first-time attendee, I approached the event with curiosity and a desire to explore how the broader industry is addressing challenges in network operations. Here’s what stood out to me:
Attending sessions on AI and network automation felt like stepping into the future of IT operations. From Gartner analysts outlining the transformative power of generative AI to thought leaders presenting real-world examples, I gained a clear picture of how organizations are already leveraging these technologies to solve critical problems. For example, discussions around digital twins emphasized their role in creating accurate, actionable network models, which resonates deeply with what we at NetBrain have been doing for years.
One particularly thought-provoking Gartner session explored how AI is being adopted incrementally for Day 0 (network design), Day 1 (setup), and Day 2 (troubleshooting). It affirmed how far ahead NetBrain is in this journey, with our automation capabilities already delivering predictive troubleshooting and incident prevention.
I made it a point to visit our competitors’ booths to get a sense of how they’re positioning themselves in the AI and automation space. Companies like Aviatrix and IP Fabric emphasized their strengths, but I came away feeling even more confident about how NetBrain stands out. While competitors focused on specific aspects of network visibility or cloud integration, NetBrain’s comprehensive approach to automation, application assurance, and hybrid-cloud visibility offers unmatched value.
For example, IP Fabric’s focus on discovering network unknowns and Aviatrix’s cloud networking pitch underscored niche solutions, whereas NetBrain provides a unified, no-code platform that not only maps the network but automates troubleshooting and change management with ease. Walking the floor gave me clarity on where the gaps lie and how NetBrain fills them better.
The Gartner sessions on AI in network operations were invaluable. Hearing from analysts about the trends driving change; like multi-cloud complexity, skills gaps, and technical debt management, validated many of the challenges our customers face. It was clear that AI-powered solutions are no longer optional but essential for staying competitive.
I particularly appreciated the emphasis on building resilient and predictive networks, as highlighted in sessions by vendors and analysts alike. As NetBrain has pioneered these capabilities for years, I left feeling proud of how we are leading the charge in predictive, intent-based automation.
Some of my favorite moments were the spontaneous conversations with attendees, both at sessions and on the show floor. Hearing their stories about network challenges and aspirations underscored why events like this matter. One highlight was a VP who attended Ryan Couch’s session, initially skeptical of our claim to be “five years ahead” of the competition. After visiting the NetBrain booth and seeing a live demo, the VP left convinced, saying, “Wow—he was right, and I’m delighted!”
As a first-time attendee, I gained a new appreciation for how Gartner conferences are more than just sessions and booths; they’re platforms for learning, connection, and inspiration. This event gave me a better understanding of where the industry is heading and how NetBrain can continue to innovate and lead.
I also walked away with a deeper sense of urgency. The demand for solutions that simplify complexity and reduce downtime is only growing. Customers are hungry for tools that deliver immediate, actionable insights, and NetBrain’s ability to integrate AI with automation makes us uniquely positioned to meet that demand.
This experience was not only informative but empowering. It showed me just how much the industry is evolving and how NetBrain’s vision for automation-driven networks aligns with where IT leaders want to go. As I left the conference, I felt energized about the work we’re doing and optimistic about the future of networking.
This conference left me feeling optimistic about the direction of our industry. The conversations about AI and automation were not just theoretical, they were actionable, tangible, and designed to solve real-world challenges. It’s clear that organizations are seeking solutions that not only keep their networks running but also make them smarter, faster, and more reliable.
For NetBrain, the conference reinforced why we lead in network automation and why our solutions stand out. As we continue to innovate and collaborate with our customers, events like Gartner IOCS are invaluable in driving meaningful conversations about the future.
Thank you, Gartner, for an incredible week of learning, connecting, and pushing boundaries. Here’s to shaping the future of network operations together!