Network operators using the cloud to reduce testing costs

Network operators using the cloud to reduce testing costs

Service providers are increasingly turning to the cloud for testing and monitoring in order to reduce costs, new research has suggested.

The Heavy Reading Insider report – entitled Cloud Adds a Silver Lining to Testing & Monitoring Solutions – examines the cloud testing and monitoring market, including analysing the key drivers and challenges in this area, as well as the most lucrative verticals.

It finds that service providers are using cloud testing and monitoring as a way to minimise their testing costs as they develop and launch an increasing number of new products.

One of the report’s key findings is that IP, MPLS and IMS have well-developed network architectures that are driving the delivery of distributed applications in key regions. It also found that pay-as-you-go options are making cloud monitoring and testing a particularly attractive option.

The report states, "Cloud-delivered services will drive the need for new, differentiated services offerings that are based on advanced application-aware networks and SLAs." However, one potential challenge for the cloud testing and monitoring industry could be a lack of consistent standards, the research finds.

Denise Culver, research analyst with Heavy Reading Insider and author of the report, commented, "Cloud testing and monitoring gives many of the same benefits that cloud services provide across the board, especially in terms of reduced costs and improved flexibility."

She added, "Cloud testing and monitoring services all but eliminate the need for costly capex outlays, one of the biggest reasons that so many service providers and enterprises failed to adequately test and maintain their networks in the past."

The report is available as part of an annual single-user subscription or under a single-user licence.

Businesses looking to move services into the cloud, should evaluate the performance of their existing network and consider setting up a leased line or MPLS network.