Smart manufacturers are leveraging novel combinations of artificial intelligence, internet of things and extended reality — all connected by 5G networks — to enhance the efficiency of each stage in the production process.

Lumen Technologies Inc.’s connectivity platform, with one of the most powerful and far-reaching fiber-based networks in the world, is complemented by its cybersecurity capability to secure network workflows. The company’s edge computing capability covers 97% of U.S. business demand with five milliseconds of latency, making it a significant investment for the company, according to David Shacochis (pictured), vice president of product strategy and global head of managed services at Lumen.

“Lumen brings to bear a cybersecurity capability to secure all those network workflows,” Shacochis said. “We bring an edge computing capability that’s embedded inside that network to bring really tight proximity for within that network for workloads and software to run inside the network.”

Shacochis spoke with theCUBE industry analysts Lisa Martin and David Nicholson at VMware Explore 2023, during an exclusive broadcast on theCUBE, SiliconANGLE Media’s livestreaming studio. They discussed the importance of edge and cloud infrastructure in today’s digital transformation landscape, as well as Lumen’s secure access service edge solutions. (* Disclosure below.)

Phase shift in productivity

The convergence of generative artificial intelligence and IT requires low latency, high performance and the ability to move software and workloads closer to the data, highlighting the importance of edge computing in meeting these demands. The shift in the way offices operate is driving the need for network design changes to adapt to the evolving work models, according to Shacochis.

This is where Lumen’s Network-as-a-Service platform comes into play. It provides API-based and automated control, allowing for easier integration and management of different underlay network environments.

“Lumen’s NaaS is a dynamic ecosystem that empowers businesses with real-time, self-service control over their networks and applications,” Shacochis said. “This agility allows them to respond to critical demands instantly, increasing or reducing service levels as needed.”

Here’s the complete video interview with David Shacochis, part of SiliconANGLE’s and theCUBE’s coverage of VMware Explore 2023:

(* Disclosure: Lumen Technologies Inc. sponsored this segment of theCUBE. Neither Lumen nor other sponsors have editorial control over content on theCUBE or SiliconANGLE.)

Photo: SiliconANGLE