Network administration: Extreme wants to reduce manual tasks by 90 percent

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In many cases, traditional network management no longer covers the constantly changing conditions in networks. Extreme Networks has introduced Platform ONE, a new, integrated network platform that is designed to centrally map network operation, security and lifecycle management. Of course, agent-based AI is also a must. 265 companies are already using the public cloud service as pilot customers.

The aim of the platform is to massively reduce complexity in network environments while significantly increasing efficiency through automation and support from AI agents. Extreme integrates wired and wireless networks paired with security functions. Conversational AI in combination with AI agents is expected to reduce manual tasks by up to 90 percent – according to Extreme.

Zero touch and zero trust

A central element of the platform is the so-called Zero-Touch Fabric in conjunction with Universal Zero Trust Network Access (UZTNA). The latter enables a ready-to-use network structure with integrated segmentation. The fabric functions can be fully visualized and controlled via the cloud. This is supplemented by NAC (Network Access Control) via encrypted connections such as RadSec or IPSec, as well as MDM integrations.

The entire wired and wireless network can not only be managed, but also visualized with its network topology based on real-time data. The platform also includes alarm management. Wireless security functions such as Wireless Intrusion Prevention (WIPS) provide additional protection by automatically detecting and blocking unwanted devices.

More than just network management

The platform now also offers license, contract and asset management. This is intended to reduce the admin's workload by making it easier for him to keep track of these increasingly complex tasks in the network environment and to keep an eye on his subscriptions as well as product and software lifecycles. Reports with graphs and PDF exports can also be created. Other manufacturers previously had separate portals for network management, subscription management, license and lifecycle management.

The conversational AI agent can, for example, make recommendations and carry out firmware updates. Both public and proprietary data sources, such as documentation, technical articles and telemetry data from the network, serve as data sources. Like other manufacturers, Extreme relies on the "Human in the Loop" approach, which requires human approval. For Extreme Works customers, it should be possible to open a Global Technical Assistance Center (GTAC) ticket directly from a conversation.

Licensing

Extreme Platform ONE is offered exclusively as a subscription model and comprises four licensing levels (Tiers A to D) for the various wireless and wired devices. TAC services with different support levels can also be combined with the subscription. More details can be found in the provider's announcement.

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