Introducing Cloudflare: Bridging Cost and Real-Time Solutions in the Era of Agentic AI

Hitachi Solutions, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and led by President Hidetoshi Morita, has entered into a distribution agreement with Cloudflare, Inc. based in the United States. This strategic partnership aims to provide Cloudflare's cutting-edge solutions starting June 22, to support comprehensive needs from AI agent development to operation, and advanced security measures like Zero Trust. In the age of agentic AI, businesses will benefit not only from suitable AI agent development but also from enhanced governance and optimization of their IT environments.

As digital transformation accelerates from management to the front lines, companies are grappling with an explosive increase in data derived from IoT devices and customer interactions. While development of AI agents progresses, traditional cloud-based architectures face significant challenges such as escalating data transfer costs, response time delays, and potential security vulnerabilities. Cloudflare offers an innovative edge architecture that allows for high-speed processing close to users, enabling companies to develop and execute AI effectively while also providing crucial security measures. The platform also supports natural language processing for AI development, addressing the specific risks associated with AI technology.

With Cloudflare, companies can leverage AI in real-time, minimize data transfer costs, and manage AI-specific security concerns efficiently—without the need for extensive infrastructure planning or design. Hitachi Solutions is committed to fostering a sustainable society through its concept of 'DX by AX toward SX,' creating new value for its clients.

Key Features of Cloudflare

1. Fast Response and Low-Cost Secure Development Environment
By developing AI agents close to the user across Cloudflare's expansive global network, companies can achieve significant cost reductions. The billing occurs only during the uptime of the AI agents, which minimizes expenses associated with data transfer. This approach also eliminates the need for complex infrastructure management, allowing rapid implementation from development to execution.

2. Comprehensive Security Measures Against AI and Cyber Threats
With protections against web application attacks, DDoS attacks, and bots, Cloudflare safeguards websites, applications, and APIs. The platform also monitors AI prompts and outputs to prevent prompt injection attacks and information leaks, contributing to a secure operational environment. Additional services include traffic visualization and access management, ensuring safe and effective AI utilization.

3. Detection of Shadow AI and Comprehensive Security Solutions
Incorporating Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) principles, Cloudflare provides a cohesive security approach. It ensures secure connections to internal systems and cloud-based environments, optimizing safety and flexibility for businesses employing AI agents in hybrid workplace models.

Future Developments

In addition to extensive security protocols, Hitachi Solutions will provide consulting on AI governance and a 'Confidential Information Classification Service' to assist companies in safely integrating AI technologies. The firm plans to continually expand its offerings to further support the internalization of AI agent development and strengthen security measures.

This comprehensive support aims to bolster safe AI usage, enhancing competitive advantage and fostering sustainable management.

Background Context

As generative AI evolves, businesses are transitioning from limited applications for tasks like document generation to employing AI agents capable of executing complex processes across various operations. Industries such as manufacturing, distribution, and social infrastructure are increasingly leveraging on-ground data while integrating with existing systems, advancing automation and operational sophistication.

However, traditional cloud-centric architectures have demonstrated inadequacies in addressing the challenges faced during the live operation of AI agents. The concentration of growing data in cloud systems causes higher transfer costs and latency issues, while vulnerabilities tied to security risks and increased operational burdens arise. AI-specific risks such as prompt injection attacks require a unified governance approach, further complicating management. Thus, a robust and efficient infrastructure that optimizes performance, cost, and security is urgently needed for any organization looking to fully utilize AI agents.

Recognizing these needs, Hitachi Solutions has integrated Cloudflare into its offering of generative AI solutions, helping to accelerate AI utilization for companies. Coupled with their expertise in data governance and AI deployment, this partnership aims to create a secure environment for organizations to confidently implement AI agents.

Endorsement from Cloudflare's Chief Partner Officer

Tom Evans, Cloudflare's Chief Partner Officer, expressed, "We’re excited to welcome Hitachi Solutions, Ltd. as an authorized Cloudflare Distributor. Their strong regional presence further strengthens our growing global partner ecosystem. Through this collaboration, we’re enhancing our ability to support partners with the tools, resources, and enablement they need to drive meaningful growth."

About Cloudflare

For more information about Cloudflare, visit Hitachi Solutions Cloudflare.

About Generative AI Utilization Support Solutions

Learn more about the Generative AI support solutions at Hitachi Solutions Generative AI.

About Hitachi Solutions

Hitachi Solutions focuses on co-creation with clients, providing advanced digital technology solutions for successful digital transformation. With a collaborative approach across offices in the Americas, Southeast Asia, and India, Hitachi Solutions is addressing global challenges, enhancing both safety and sustainability in society. For more details, please visit Hitachi Solutions.