#United States #Lafayette #EMA Research #Cloud Observability #Network Data

Introduction

In an ever-evolving technology landscape, understanding cloud traffic has become paramount for enterprises. A recent report by Enterprise Management Associates (EMA) emphasizes key strategies to enhance cloud traffic observability, crucial for ensuring both security and operational efficiency in hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

Key Findings from the Research

EMA's research involved a comprehensive survey of 250 IT and cybersecurity professionals, focusing on how organizations collect, store, and analyze network traffic data in public cloud settings. According to the findings, a staggering 49% of IT personnel regard network flow data as essential for effective monitoring and optimization of their cloud network. Surprisingly, only 29% expressed satisfaction with the tools currently in use for this purpose.

Essential Data Types

The report highlights that both packets and flows are vital sources of observability data that supplement the widely recognized metrics, logs, and traces (collectively known as MELT data). Shamus McGillicuddy, Vice President of Research for Network Infrastructure at EMA, states, “A unified approach to data collection and storage significantly improves observability across both cloud and on-premise networks.”

Effectiveness and Challenges

The report reveals that only 50% of enterprises effectively gather and analyze cloud network traffic. The primary benefits identified from analyzing this data include reduced security risks, enhanced operational efficiency, and the swift identification and resolution of security incidents. However, challenges persist. Top barriers include concerns about security risks, issues related to traffic encryption, and the quality of the collected data.

A striking 93% of respondents anticipate that the significance of packet data for cloud security operations will only increase in the coming two years, underscoring the urgency for enterprises to address these challenges.

Best Practices for Cloud Traffic Observability

The report outlines several best practices to assist companies in enhancing their cloud traffic observability:

1. Unified Data Collection: Companies should adopt a strategy that integrates data collection across cloud and on-premises networks to ensure high data quality and comprehensive visibility.
2. Prioritize Packet Analysis: Organizations should place an emphasis on analyzing packet data alongside flow data, recognizing their complementary roles in maintaining observability.
3. Invest in Modern Tools: It's imperative for enterprises to seek and implement more efficient tools for monitoring network traffic, as just over a quarter of respondents in the survey were satisfied with their existing solutions.
4. Address Security Challenges: Awareness and proactive measures against security risks and encryption-related challenges will be crucial as enterprises navigate public cloud environments.

Future Directions

To aid organizations in overcoming these barriers, EMA is hosting a live webinar on August 26, featuring key insights from this research. Attendees can expect practical recommendations on enhancing cloud traffic observability and operational performance.

Conclusion

As businesses continue to embrace hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, understanding and improving cloud traffic observability is fundamental for operational success and security. EMA's research provides invaluable insights and actionable strategies for enterprises aiming to bolster their cloud network monitoring and response capabilities.

For further details on this research, download the full report titled “Cloud Network Traffic Data Empowering Network and Security Operations in the Hybrid, Multi-Cloud Era” available on EMA's website.