In this whitepaper by SUSE and Edgenesis, the spotlight is on the intricate challenges and inherent value for end customers in connecting Industrial IoT (IIoT) devices at the edge. This comprehensive document explores the hurdles such as scalability, security, and interoperability that industries face, and underscores the importance of a strategic approach in overcoming these obstacles. It offers an in-depth look into how Kubernetes can play a crucial role in not just addressing these challenges, but also in driving significant value for end customers by ensuring efficient, secure, and scalable IIoT deployments. This whitepaper is an essential read for stakeholders looking to navigate the complexities of IIoT implementations and unlock the full potential of edge computing.

Problem Definition

We’ll start with confronting the challenges at the heart of integrating IIoT devices at the network’s edge. We explore critical issues such as interoperability across diverse devices, the complexity of managing a large-scale device network, and the imperative for robust security measures to ward off cyber threats. Additionally, we touch on the difficulties of scaling these systems efficiently and the challenges of integrating them with legacy systems for real-time data processing. This section lays the groundwork for understanding the pressing needs in IIoT deployments, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions for a more secure and efficient industrial future.

Connecting IoT devices at the edge:

• Interoperability
  • Industrial IoT devices often come from different manufacturers and may use various protocols, systems and data formats. This heterogeneity makes it difficult for these devices to communicate and work seamlessly together
• Management
  • Managing a large number of IoT devices, each with different configuration, updates and monitoring needs is complex
  • Complex onboarding processes can lead to extended deployment times, increased chances of errors, and higher initial setup costs
• Scaling
  • As the number of connected devices grows, the system must be able to scale without a drop in performance. This includes handling increased data volumes and maintaining communication efficiency
• Security
  • Each IoT devices could potentially be an entry point for cyber threats. Securing these devices, especially in a factory where they may not have been initially designed with strong security features is a significant challenge.
  • Devices with outdated kernels or software are at risk of being exploited by cyber attacks, which could lead to data breaches or operational disruptions.
• Integration
  • Integrating IoT devices with existing industrial systems (i.e. Legacy machines, ERP systems and more) and modern applications can be difficult due to differences in technology and standards.
• Architecture
  • Designing an architecture that can handle the demands of IIoT in a factory setting, such as real-time data processing, low latency and high reliability is complex
• AI and the Future
  • Technology, especially in the IoT domain, is evolving rapidly. Solutions implemented today must be adaptable and scalable to accommodate future technological advancements and changing industrial needs.

To address these challenges, solutions often involve the implementation of standardized protocols for interoperability, robust management and security systems, scalable architectures (like cloud or hybrid cloud environments), and integration platforms that can bridge the gap between different systems and technologies. The goal is to create a cohesive, secure, and efficient environment where IIoT devices can operate harmoniously and deliver the full range of their intended benefits.

Introducing Shifu

Shifu is a Kubernetes-native IoT platform. It extends Kubernetes’ into managing IoT devices as if they were native Kubernetes Pods. By virtualizing IoT devices into these Pods, Shifu encapsulates all the device-specific protocols and drivers into a containerized environment, enabling seamless management and deployment.

Shifu, Akri, Multus, RKE2 and SLE Micro integration

Multus: attaching multiple network interfaces to a pod

Akri: Device discovery (as an alternative to shifud)

Shifu: Deploy and manage connected deviceShifu inside Kubernetes cluster

SLE Micro: lightweight Linux OS at the edge

RKE2: Kubernetes runtime

Elemental: Edge onboarding and day 2 operations

Overall Architecture

Shifu + Akri sequence

1. Apply Akri configuration
   1. Broker
   2. Connection information
2. Once Akri agent discovers the device, it creates an Akri instance
3. Shifu controller detects Akri instance change, creates deviceShifu
   1. Listen to Akri event in Shifu Controller from Kube API server
   2. Deploys deviceShifu from Controller (Deployment, Service, EdgeDevice)
4. Connection established

Detailed architecture

Day 2 Operation

Benefits of this integration

1. Interoperability:
   1. Your use of Akri for device discovery allows for the identification of a wide range of devices using different protocols. Akri can be extended with various plugins to support new types of devices as they become available, promoting interoperability across heterogeneous devices.
   2. Shifu’s ability to deploy device/protocol pods ensures that each device can communicate with the cluster through a standardized interface, further enhancing interoperability.
2. Management:
   1. The combination of Akri and Shifu provides a streamlined process for device management. Akri discovers devices and informs Shifu, which then manages the lifecycle of the corresponding deviceShifu pods.
   2. This automation reduces the management overhead and the risk of human error, while also providing a clear and simplified management interface through the Kubernetes API.
   3. Elemental streamlines the entire lifecycle of edge computing nodes, from initial deployment (Day 0) to ongoing management and updates (Day 2), using a centralized Kubernetes-native OS management system for seamless scalability and maintenance.
3. Scaling:
   1. Kubernetes inherently supports scaling, and by integrating your IoT devices into the Kubernetes ecosystem using Shifu, you can leverage Kubernetes’ horizontal scaling capabilities.
   2. Multus allows you to attach multiple network interfaces to pods, which can help in scaling out your network architecture without being constrained by the limits of a single network interface.
4. Security:
   1. The Kubernetes platform itself provides several built-in security features, such as role-based access control (RBAC), secrets management, and network policies, which can be utilized to secure your IoT infrastructure.
   2. Additionally, by encapsulating devices within pods, you can apply Kubernetes’ security best practices to each IoT device, thus standardizing and potentially improving the security posture across all devices.
   3. Elemental enhances the security of edge computing infrastructures by providing a minimal OS layer specifically tailored for Kubernetes, ensuring that nodes are equipped with just the essential components to reduce the attack surface and facilitate secure, automated updates.
5. Integration:
   1. With deviceShifu, you can create custom resources in Kubernetes for each IoT device, which can then be managed and used like any other Kubernetes resource. This seamless integration into the Kubernetes ecosystem enables easier management and integration with other applications and services running in the cluster.
   2. SLE Micro as a Kubernetes runtime at the edge is optimized for lightweight and reliable operation, suitable for edge computing where resources might be limited.
6. Architecture:
   1. This solution is built on a microservices architecture, which is inherently modular and resilient. Each component (Akri, Multus, Shifu) plays a specialized role and can be updated independently, ensuring a flexible and maintainable system.
   2. The use of edge computing through SLE Micro allows for decentralized processing, reducing latency and bandwidth use by processing data closer to the source.
7. Need for AI and Future-Proofing:
   1. By integrating with Kubernetes and leveraging edge computing, you create an infrastructure that is well-suited for implementing AI and machine learning models directly at the edge, enabling real-time analytics and decision-making.
   2. The modular nature of this solution ensures that as your needs evolve or as new technologies emerge, you can adapt and extend your system with minimal disruption. The use of open-source components also helps in keeping up with the latest advancements and community support.

Case study

Summary

Edgenesis collaborated with a factory automation company managing around 100 different types of IoT devices. Previously, they struggled with the integration of these devices into their system due to a lack of infrastructure engineering expertise. By utilizing our proprietary solution, Shifu, we optimized their software infrastructure by abstracting the IoT connectivity layers, effectively decoupling their application from protocol and connectivity logistics. This partnership allowed the engineers to concentrate on automation application logic rather than infrastructure concerns. As a result, Edgenesis helped the company achieve a significant increase in efficiency:

• Transformed a device integration process that would have taken years into one requiring just one Full-Time Worker (FTW) for 2 months to complete, translating to a staggering increase in efficiency.
• Streamlined the development process and reduced time required, saving an estimated $1.2 million in labor and overhead costs over the initial projection. This enhancement not only accelerated development but also significantly cut costs and resources, marking a milestone in the company’s operational capabilities in the factory automation sector.

Challenges

Tight coupling limited system scalability and adaptability.

1. The device drivers and applications were tightly integrated, any update risked disrupting the entire ecosystem. Leading to a slow and laborious development cycle.
2. With over hundreds of different types of devices, each requiring unique communication protocols like RS485, OPC UA, MQTT, and RTSP, making standardization a formidable challenge.
3. The existing monolithic architecture lacked the necessary scalability, posing significant challenges when attempting to integrate new devices or scale up to meet increasing demands.

Edgenesis’ solution

1. Infrastructure-Business Logic Decoupling: Shifu decouples IoT management from business logic, allowing more agile application development and easier maintenance.
2. Enhanced Scalability: Able to scale to millions of devices. The new architecture was designed with scalability in mind, making it easier to add and integrate new devices into the system as the operational needs grow.
3. Shorter Release Cycles: By standardizing device communication through protocol abstraction, Shifu minimizes the complexity involved in device integration. This streamlined process results in significantly shorter release cycles, enabling quicker deployment of updates and new features.
4. Improved Security: With the ability to update the operating system and applications within a shorter release cycle, the solution effectively reduces the lifespan of any critical vulnerabilities (CVEs), thereby enhancing the system’s security and reliability over time.
5. Centralized Management: The application at the core of the RKE2 Cluster communicates with the various ‘deviceShifu’ modules via HTTP, centralizing device management and allowing for streamlined monitoring and control from a single point.

Conclusion

The integration of Shifu, Akri, Multus, RKE2 and SLE Micro represents a significant leap forward in managing IIoT devices at the edge. This synergy offers a more flexible, scalable, and cost-efficient approach to edge computing. Such a transformative shift in IIoT device management underscores the critical need for IT professionals to adopt Kubernetes-native solutions, designed with precision for edge environments. This whitepaper emphasizes the importance of embracing these innovations to enhance operational efficiencies and drive future advancements in industrial IoT.

Contact SUSE and Edgenesis today to unlock the potential of your industrial processes and secure a technology foundation that’s built for the future. Embrace the opportunity to simplify the complexities of IIoT and safeguard your infrastructure with confidence. Let’s chart a course towards a smarter, more efficient, and protected IIoT ecosystem together.

Authors:

Tom Qin, Co-Founder & Chief SRE at Edgenesis

Experienced software engineer with a proven track record at Veriflow Systems. Co-founder and Chief SRE at Edgenesis, designing Shifu (a Kubernetes-native IoT framework) and leading the engineering team. Passionate about technology and innovation.

Andrew Gracey, Lead Product Manager for Cloud Native Edge at SUSE

Passionate about making a positive impact on the world through technical and human process design. Andrew has 9+ years of experience in the tech industry serving in roles requiring fast-paced and creative design, a solid understanding of project’s fit in the market, and project management/expectation management skills.

In the ever-evolving technological landscape, cloud computing has emerged as a cornerstone for modern businesses, offering unparalleled flexibility, scalability, and efficiency in managing IT resources. At its core, cloud computing allows organizations to access and utilize computing services—such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the internet, enabling faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale. Among the various models of cloud computing, the public cloud stands out for its ability to provide vast computational resources on a shared infrastructure, making it an essential subject for businesses looking to harness the benefits of cloud technology.

Understanding the public cloud model is crucial for organizations aiming to optimize their operations and drive innovation. The public cloud definition encompasses a framework where cloud services are offered over the internet by third-party providers, making resources available to anyone willing to purchase or rent them. This model of public cloud infrastructure is designed to deliver IT automation, high-performance workloads, and cloud elasticity, ensuring that businesses can scale their resources up or down based on demand, while also prioritizing data privacy.

As we delve deeper into the realm of public cloud computing, it becomes apparent that its advantages extend beyond simple cost savings. It fosters an environment where businesses can thrive in a competitive market by leveraging IT automation for streamlined operations, ensuring data privacy amidst growing cyber threats, and accommodating high-performance workloads with ease. This introduction aims to shed light on the significance of public cloud computing, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of its workings, benefits, and considerations in the following sections.

Definition of Public Cloud

The public cloud is a paradigm in cloud computing that epitomizes efficiency, scalability, and accessibility in the digital age. It operates on a basic concept where computing services and infrastructure are hosted by third-party providers over the Internet, making them available to businesses and individuals on a pay-per-use or subscription basis. This model’s defining characteristics include its open nature, allowing multiple tenants to share the same resources while maintaining the privacy and security of their data and applications. Public cloud infrastructure is built on the principles of IT automation, ensuring that resources can be dynamically allocated and managed to support varying workloads, from everyday business applications to high-performance computing tasks.

When compared to private and hybrid clouds, the public cloud stands out for several reasons. A private cloud is dedicated to the needs and usage of a single organization, offering greater control and security at the expense of scalability and cost-efficiency. On the other hand, a hybrid cloud combines elements of both public and private clouds, providing businesses the flexibility to distribute their workloads across both environments based on their specific needs, such as compliance requirements or peak demand periods. This allows organizations to enjoy the scalability and cost-effectiveness of the public cloud while retaining critical workloads in a more controlled private cloud environment.

The public cloud’s essence lies in its ability to provide cloud elasticity, enabling businesses to scale their IT resources up or down with ease, depending on their current needs, without the upfront cost of building and maintaining their infrastructure. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for supporting high-performance workloads that require significant computational power temporarily. Furthermore, the public cloud model emphasizes data privacy, with providers implementing stringent security measures to protect sensitive information, even in a shared environment. By offering a blend of accessibility, resource efficiency, and robust security measures, the public cloud emerges as a compelling choice for businesses looking to leverage cloud computing’s full potential.

Public Cloud Services (IaaS, Paas, SaaS)

cloud stack combination of IaaS PaaS and SaaS Platform Infrastructure Software as a service vector

The public cloud ecosystem is rich with services designed to cater to a broad spectrum of IT needs, enabling businesses to focus on innovation and growth rather than the underlying infrastructure. These services can be broadly categorized into three main types: Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS).

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS): provides virtualized computing resources over the Internet. It offers the foundational elements of cloud computing, including virtual servers, storage, and networks, allowing businesses to build and manage their applications with unprecedented scalability and flexibility. IaaS enables organizations to rent infrastructure on an as-needed basis, reducing the need for significant capital investments in physical hardware.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS): delivers a framework for developers to build, test, deploy, and manage applications without worrying about the underlying infrastructure. This model facilitates the rapid development of applications, providing a suite of tools and services that streamline the development process. PaaS is ideal for developers seeking to minimize the complexities of server management and focus on coding.

Software-as-a-service (SaaS): offers access to application software and databases. SaaS providers host and maintain the software, handling any updates and infrastructure security. This service allows users to connect to and use cloud-based apps over the internet, simplifying application access and reducing the burden of software maintenance on end-users. SaaS is widely adopted for its ease of use, subscription-based pricing, and the ability to access powerful software from anywhere.

How Do Public Clouds Work?

The architecture and infrastructure of public clouds are designed to deliver a scalable, accessible, and secure computing environment to businesses and individuals across the globe. At the heart of a public cloud’s operation lies a network of data centers, equipped with high-capacity servers and storage systems, interconnected through a robust networking infrastructure. This setup ensures that resources such as computing power and storage are readily available to meet the demands of users, ranging from small startups to large enterprises.

Scalability is a fundamental characteristic of public clouds, allowing for the dynamic allocation of resources based on user demand. This elasticity ensures that applications can scale up resources during peak times and scale down when demand wanes, optimizing cost efficiency and performance. Accessibility is another critical feature, with services available over the internet, providing users the flexibility to access applications and data from anywhere, at any time.

The multi-tenancy environment of public clouds means that the same physical resources are shared among multiple users or organizations, with strict security and privacy controls in place to protect each user’s data and applications. This model maximizes the utilization of resources, contributing to the cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency of public cloud services. Through a combination of advanced virtualization technology, robust security measures, and comprehensive management tools, public clouds offer a powerful, flexible, and secure platform for hosting a wide range of applications and workloads.

Public Cloud vs. Private Cloud

When considering cloud computing solutions, businesses often weigh the benefits and drawbacks of public and private clouds to determine which best suits their needs. Public clouds are provided over the internet by third-party providers and offer scalable, flexible, and cost-effective resources shared across multiple organizations. The main advantages of public clouds include lower upfront costs, as there is no need to invest in and maintain physical hardware, and greater scalability, allowing businesses to adjust resources based on demand rapidly. However, concerns about data privacy and security in a shared environment are potential drawbacks.

Private clouds, on the other hand, are dedicated to a single organization, providing a more controlled and secure environment. They offer greater customization and are often preferred by businesses with strict regulatory compliance requirements or those needing advanced security features. The disadvantages include higher costs due to the need for companies to purchase, manage, and maintain their infrastructure, and potentially less scalability compared to public clouds.

Deciding which cloud model is better depends on the specific needs and priorities of a business. Public clouds are generally better suited for companies looking for cost efficiency, scalability, and flexibility without significant capital expenditures. Private clouds are ideal for organizations requiring stringent security measures, greater control over their environment, or those with predictable, consistent resource demand. Hybrid models, combining elements of both public and private clouds, offer a middle ground, providing the flexibility to choose the most appropriate environment for different workloads and data types.

Public Clouds in Hybrid Environments

A hybrid cloud is an integrated cloud service utilizing both private and public clouds to perform distinct functions within the same organization. This model offers businesses the flexibility to move workloads between cloud solutions as needs and costs fluctuate, providing a balance between the scalability and cost-effectiveness of public clouds with the control and security of private clouds.

Integrating public cloud services with private cloud or on-premises infrastructure allows organizations to leverage the best of both worlds. For example, a company can use a public cloud for high-demand, scalable applications or for deploying new applications quickly, while keeping sensitive operations, such as data storage or legacy applications, in a private cloud or on-premises due to regulatory, policy, or security considerations.

The benefits of a hybrid cloud setup include enhanced flexibility and operational efficiency, allowing businesses to scale resources on demand without significant capital expenditure. It also provides improved data privacy and security measures, as sensitive data can be kept on a private cloud or on-premises, while still enjoying the innovation and agility offered by public cloud services.

However, hybrid cloud environments come with their own set of challenges. These include the complexity of managing multiple cloud environments, the need for robust security measures across all platforms, and potential issues with data and application portability. Successfully navigating these challenges requires a strategic approach to cloud integration and the adoption of comprehensive management tools to ensure a seamless, secure, and efficient hybrid cloud environment.

Public Cloud Security

Security within public cloud services is a paramount concern for businesses and individuals alike, given the shared nature of the resources and the vast amounts of data processed and stored. Providers of public cloud services invest heavily in implementing robust security measures to protect their infrastructure and clients’ data from unauthorized access, breaches, and other cyber threats. This comprehensive security framework typically includes physical security measures at data centers, network security protocols, encryption of data in transit and at rest, and identity and access management (IAM) systems.

One key aspect of public cloud security is the shared responsibility model, which delineates the security obligations of the cloud provider and the customer. While the provider is responsible for securing the infrastructure and platform, customers must manage the security of their applications and data. This includes configuring access controls, monitoring activity for suspicious behavior, and ensuring that data is encrypted and backed up.

Moreover, public cloud services often comply with a wide range of international and industry-specific security standards and regulations, such as GDPR for data protection in Europe, HIPAA for healthcare data in the United States, and ISO 27001 for information security management. Compliance with these standards demonstrates a provider’s commitment to maintaining high levels of security and data protection.

Despite the robust security measures in place, customers must remain vigilant and proactive in managing their portion of the security responsibility. This includes regularly reviewing access permissions, using multi-factor authentication, and employing end-to-end encryption for sensitive data. By understanding and actively participating in the security processes, businesses can leverage the power of public cloud computing while minimizing risks to their data and applications.

How Can SUSE Help?

SUSE, a global leader in open source and cloud-native infrastructure management software, offers a comprehensive suite of cloud services and solutions designed to empower businesses in their transition to public and hybrid cloud environments. SUSE’s cloud solutions are built on the principles of flexibility, scalability, and security, providing enterprises with the tools they need to innovate and grow in the digital landscape. By leveraging SUSE’s expertise, businesses can seamlessly integrate their on-premises infrastructure with public cloud services, ensuring a smooth, secure, and efficient hybrid cloud setup.

The benefits of using SUSE for public and hybrid cloud environments include enhanced operational efficiency, reduced costs, and improved security compliance. SUSE solutions are engineered to support a wide range of workloads and applications, offering businesses the agility to adapt to market demands rapidly.

In today’s tech-driven economy, understanding cloud migration strategy is pivotal for businesses aiming to harness the power of digital transformation. Cloud computing, a revolutionary technology, offers computing services—servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the internet (“the cloud”) to provide faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale.

At the heart of this evolution is the strategic imperative for cloud migration, a process that involves moving data, applications, and other business elements to a cloud computing environment. The significance of cloud migration in the modern business landscape cannot be overstated. It enables organizations to become more efficient, secure, and flexible, empowering them to meet the demands of a rapidly changing market.

A cloud migration strategy is a comprehensive plan that outlines how an organization will transition its digital assets to the cloud. This strategy is crucial for minimizing risks, reducing downtime, and ensuring a seamless transition that aligns with business goals. It involves selecting the right cloud provider, deciding on a cloud environment (public, private, or hybrid), and determining the most effective migration tools and services.

For businesses, the adoption of a cloud migration strategy offers numerous benefits, including improved scalability, enhanced performance, reduced IT costs, and better disaster recovery capabilities. In the context of an ever-increasing reliance on digital technologies, formulating and executing a well-thought-out cloud migration strategy is not just advantageous—it’s essential for staying competitive in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Understanding Cloud Migration

Cloud migration represents a strategic shift for businesses aiming to leverage the power of cloud computing to enhance their digital infrastructure. It involves the transition of data, applications, IT processes, and databases from on-premises hardware or between cloud environments. This move is driven by the desire to capitalize on the cloud’s scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency.

Several key drivers motivate organizations to migrate to the cloud. Cost reduction is a primary factor, as the cloud minimizes the need for physical hardware and its associated maintenance expenses. Scalability is another critical benefit, allowing businesses to adjust resources in response to fluctuating demands seamlessly. Moreover, cloud migration offers enhanced performance, superior disaster recovery capabilities, and the opportunity to utilize advanced technologies like AI and ML for insightful data analysis. The growing trend towards remote work further accentuates the importance of the cloud’s anywhere, anytime data and application access.

SUSE, a leader in open source software, plays a pivotal role in facilitating cloud migration through its comprehensive suite of solutions. SUSE’s offerings are designed to support businesses at every stage of their cloud journey, emphasizing reliability, performance, and security.

The cloud services landscape is categorized into three main models, catering to various business needs:

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): SUSE’s collaboration with major public cloud providers, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP), ensures that businesses have the robust infrastructure required for their operations, including virtual servers, networks, and storage solutions.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS): SUSE/Rancher Cloud Application Deployment Platform simplifies application development and deployment by providing a PaaS environment that streamlines the lifecycle of cloud-native and containerized applications. This allows developers to focus on innovation without the overhead of managing underlying infrastructure.
• Software as a Service (SaaS): While SUSE primarily focuses on infrastructure and platform solutions, its ecosystem includes partnerships that facilitate access to SaaS applications, enabling businesses to leverage software over the internet efficiently.

Incorporating SUSE solutions into a cloud migration strategy enables businesses to navigate their digital transformation with confidence. By choosing between IaaS and PaaS offerings from SUSE, organizations can tailor their cloud environment to meet specific operational needs, technical capabilities, and strategic goals, all while benefiting from the open source leader’s expertise in making cloud transitions seamless and secure.

The Cloud Migration Strategy Explained

Embarking on a cloud migration journey involves a strategic framework designed to guide businesses through the transition of their IT infrastructure, applications, and services to the cloud. A well-defined cloud migration strategy not only ensures a smooth transition but also aligns with the business objectives, maximizes ROI, and enhances operational efficiency. SUSE, as a leader in open source and cloud-native solutions for cloud infrastructure and application delivery, offers valuable insights and tools for each step of this process.

Assessing Your Needs

The first step in a cloud migration strategy is to thoroughly assess your organization’s needs.

• Identifying Business Objectives: Understanding what you aim to achieve through cloud migration is crucial. Objectives may include cost reduction, improved scalability, enhanced performance, or fostering innovation. SUSE solutions, designed for efficiency and adaptability, can help meet these varied objectives by providing a solid foundation for your cloud environment.
• Assessing Current IT Infrastructure: Evaluate your existing infrastructure to determine what can be moved to the cloud and what may need to be updated or replaced. SUSE open and cloud-native infrastructure solutions offer the flexibility to support a wide range of applications and workloads, making it easier to plan a migration that aligns with current capabilities and future growth.

Understanding Application Dependencies: Mapping out how your applications interact and depend on each other is vital. This understanding helps in planning the migration sequence to ensure business continuity. SUSE application delivery solutions can simplify this process by providing tools for managing and deploying applications across various environments seamlessly.

Planning Cloud Migration

Once the assessment phase is complete, the next step is to plan the migration.

• Choosing the Right Cloud Service Model: Considering the adoption of  IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS depends on your business needs. SUSE offers robust IaaS and PaaS solutions that cater to businesses looking for control over their infrastructure or those seeking to streamline application development and deployment.
• Selecting the Cloud Provider: Choose a provider that aligns with your technical requirements, budget, and business goals. SUSE’s partnerships with leading cloud providers ensure that businesses have the flexibility to select the best environment for their needs while benefiting from SUSE’s reliability and security features.
• Creating a Migration Plan and Timeline: Develop a detailed migration plan that includes a timeline, milestones, and a clear sequence of moving applications and data. Utilizing SUSE tools and services can help in creating a structured approach to migration, minimizing downtime, and reducing risks.
• Budget Considerations: Estimate the costs associated with cloud migration, including the expenses for cloud services, potential upgrades, and training. SUSE’s cost-effective solutions and the ability to choose between different service models can help businesses manage their budgets effectively.

Types of Cloud Migration Strategies

Understanding the various approaches to cloud migration is essential for selecting the strategy that best fits your organization’s needs. The 6 R’s provide a framework for considering different migration strategies:

• Rehosting (Lift-and-Shift): Moving applications to the cloud without modifications. SUSE supports rehosting by ensuring that existing applications run smoothly on cloud infrastructure.
• Replatforming: Making minor adjustments to applications to capitalize on cloud capabilities without overhauling the core architecture. SUSE’s flexible platform solutions facilitate re-platforming by making it easier to adapt applications for cloud environments.
• Repurchasing (Move to SaaS): Switching to a cloud-based application instead of hosting on-premises. While SUSE focuses on IaaS and PaaS, its ecosystem supports seamless integration with SaaS solutions.
• Refactoring/Rearchitecting: Redesigning applications to fully utilize cloud-native features. SUSE provides open, secure, and cloud-native Kubernetes/container management solutions necessary for businesses looking to refactor their applications and workloads for optimal performance in the cloud.
• Retiring: Identifying and decommissioning obsolete or unused applications to optimize resource allocation. SUSE solutions can help identify which parts of the IT portfolio are no longer needed, streamlining the migration process.
• Retaining: Choosing not to migrate certain applications or data to the cloud, either due to compliance issues, technical limitations, or strategic reasons. SUSE supports hybrid cloud environments, allowing for the retention of some resources on-premises while migrating others to the cloud.

Implementing a cloud migration strategy with SUSE ensures businesses have the support, tools, and flexibility needed to transition to the cloud efficiently and effectively. By carefully assessing needs, planning the migration, and understanding the types of strategies available, organizations can navigate their cloud migration journey successfully.

Cloud Migration Best Practices

When embarking on a cloud migration journey, adhering to best practices ensures a seamless, secure, and efficient transition. Leveraging SUSE’s expertise in open source and cloud-native solutions can help organizations navigate the complexities of cloud migration while aligning with these best practices.

Ensuring Security and Compliance

Security and compliance are paramount in any cloud migration strategy. SUSE’s commitment to security is evident in its robust digital trust solutions that incorporate security features designed to protect data and applications in the cloud. Organizations should conduct thorough risk assessments and choose cloud services that comply with industry standards and regulations. SUSE’ solutions, known for their security and reliability, provide a solid foundation for building a compliant and secure cloud environment.

Managing Data and Application Migration

Effective management of data and application migration is crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring a smooth transition. SUSE enterprise Kubernetes/container management and security solutions offer powerful tools for managing the lifecycle of applications and services across different environments. By leveraging these tools, organizations can streamline the migration process, ensure data integrity, and maintain application performance.

Minimizing Downtime

Minimizing downtime during migration is essential to maintain business continuity. SUSE’s high-availability solutions are designed to ensure that applications remain accessible during the migration process. Planning migrations during low-usage periods and utilizing SUSE’s live migration features can further reduce the impact on business operations.

Training and Support for Staff

Preparing your team for the cloud environment is critical for a successful migration. SUSE provides comprehensive training and support resources to help staff understand new tools and technologies. Investing in training and leveraging SUSE’s expert support ensures that your team is equipped to manage the cloud environment effectively, fostering a smooth transition and ongoing operational efficiency.

By following these best practices and utilizing the SUSE suite of solutions, organizations can achieve a secure, efficient, and successful cloud migration, positioning themselves for future growth and innovation in the cloud era.

Tools and Technologies for Cloud Migration

The landscape of cloud migration is rich with tools and technologies designed to streamline the transition of business operations to the cloud. SUSE, as a leader in open source software, offers a suite of solutions that complement these tools, ensuring that migrations are efficient, secure, and aligned with business goals.

Overview of Popular Cloud Migration Tools

The market offers a variety of cloud migration tools, each catering to different aspects of the migration process. Tools such as AWS Migration Hub, Azure Migrate, and Google Cloud Migration Services provide platforms for assessing, planning, and executing migrations. These tools are complemented by SUSE open, secure, and cloud-native solutions, designed to ensure compatibility and performance in cloud environments. SUSE business critical infrastructure and cloud-native management solutions, such as SUSE Linux Enterprise Server and SUSE Rancher Prime, offer customers powerful platforms for deploying and managing enterprise workloads in a multi-cloud environment, facilitating a seamless migration.

Automation in Cloud Migration

Automation plays a crucial role in simplifying the cloud migration process. It reduces manual effort, minimizes errors, and accelerates the transition. The SUSE container and Kubernetes management and security products, like SUSE NeuVector Prime and SUSE Rancher Prime, automate the deployment, scaling, securing, and management of containerized workloads, making the migration process more simple, efficient, and reliable.

Challenges and Solutions in Cloud Migration

Common Challenges:

• Compatibility and Performance Issues: Migrating existing applications to the cloud can reveal compatibility and performance challenges.
• Security and Compliance Concerns: Ensuring data security and regulatory compliance during and after migration.
• Downtime and Disruption: Minimizing downtime and operational disruption during the migration.

Strategies to Overcome These Challenges:

• Leveraging SUSE Compatibility Solutions: SUSE technologies ensure that applications and workloads run seamlessly in cloud environments, addressing compatibility and performance issues.
• Implementing SUSE Security Features: SUSE’s commitment to security provides a suite of features designed to protect data and applications, helping organizations meet their security and compliance requirements.
• Utilizing SUSE High Availability Solutions: SUSE offers solutions that ensure minimal downtime and disruption during the migration process, enabling businesses to maintain continuity.

The SUSE ecosystem provides a comprehensive set of tools and technologies that support cloud migration. From assessment and planning through execution, SUSE’s solutions enhance the effectiveness of popular cloud migration tools, automate processes to reduce complexity, and offer strategies to overcome common challenges. By integrating SUSE solutions into their cloud migration strategy, organizations can navigate the transition with confidence, ensuring a successful move to the cloud.

The Future of Cloud Migration

As cloud computing continues to evolve, the future of cloud migration is shaped by emerging trends that promise to redefine the way businesses leverage technology. SUSE, at the forefront of open source innovation, is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in this evolution.

Emerging Trends in Cloud Computing:

• Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Strategies: Businesses are increasingly adopting hybrid and multi-cloud environments to optimize their operations and enhance flexibility. SUSE solutions support this trend by facilitating seamless integration across various cloud platforms and on-premises environments.
• Containerization and Kubernetes Management: The use of containers for deploying applications is on the rise, with Kubernetes becoming the standard for orchestrating these containers. SUSE Rancher Prime simplifies the management and operations of Kubernetes clusters, making it easier for businesses to adopt containerization as part of their cloud migration strategy.
• Edge Computing: As data processing needs become more decentralized, edge computing emerges as a crucial component of cloud strategies. SUSE edge solutions enable businesses to deploy and manage applications closer to the data source, reducing latency and improving performance.

How Cloud Migration Will Evolve:

Cloud migration will continue to become more streamlined, secure, and efficient. Automation will play a significant role in reducing manual efforts and speeding up the migration process. SUSE’s commitment to innovation and its comprehensive suite of cloud solutions ensure that businesses can navigate the future of cloud migration with confidence. As cloud technologies advance, the SUSE adaptive and scalable solutions will empower organizations to stay ahead in the rapidly changing digital landscape, ensuring that they can leverage the full potential of cloud computing.

Conclusion: Navigating Cloud Migration with SUSE

In wrapping up our exploration of cloud migration, the criticality of a well-structured cloud migration strategy cannot be overstated. Such a strategy is foundational in harnessing the transformative power of cloud computing, enabling businesses to achieve scalability, flexibility, and innovation. With its comprehensive suite of open source solutions, SUSE stands as a beacon for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of cloud migration.

The journey to the cloud, while promising significant benefits, demands meticulous planning, execution, and continuous optimization. A partnership with SUSE equips businesses with the necessary tools, technologies, and expertise to ensure a smooth transition. From assessing needs and planning migration to selecting the right tools and overcoming challenges, SUSE solutions offer a pathway to successful cloud adoption.

As we look towards the future, the evolution of cloud migration strategies will continue to align with emerging trends in cloud computing. The emphasis will increasingly be on automation, security, multi-cloud and hybrid environments, and the integration of advanced technologies. Preparing for a successful cloud migration involves not just technological readiness but also a strategic vision that SUSE is uniquely positioned to support.

In conclusion, leveraging SUSE’s innovative and reliable solutions paves the way for a seamless and effective transition to the cloud, ensuring that businesses remain competitive and agile in the digital age.

Get ready for the first-ever global SUSE Choice Awards! We’re thrilled to kick off this new global program at SUSECON 2024, showcasing customers who’ve harnessed the power of our solutions to redefine industries, achieve superb business results and impact society. Submissions are officially open – let the excitement begin!

From innovators to industry leaders – we want to hear your story. We invite customers across the globe to share their transformation journeys – be it a technological revolution, business excellence, sustainability initiatives, advocacy efforts, or industry leadership. This is your moment to inspire others, and we can’t wait to hear how SUSE has been a driving force behind your success.

You can nominate your organization in any of the following six categories:

Digital Trendsetter: recognizes customers at the forefront of digital innovation, setting trends with at least one of our solutions.

Excellence in Business Transformation: honors customers with exceptional mastery in business transformation, showcasing measurable business outcomes.

Sustainability Hero: celebrates organizations positively impacting the planet and society through sustainable practices and initiatives.

Industry Leader: acknowledges customers that stand out as leaders in their respective industries, making significant contributions and setting benchmarks.

Open Source Champion: awarding a customer who has actively contributed to the improvement or innovation of open source software through valuable feedback and suggestions.

Advocate of the Year: recognizes a top advocate from SUSE Collective, our customer advocacy program.

Save the date on your calendars – finalists will be announced on June 18 at SUSECON 2024 in Berlin. Winners will be recognized at the event in front of peers, the open source community and SUSE executives. In addition, exciting prizes will be at stake – a trip to SUSECON 2024, a personalized trophy, and more.

We want to hear about the extraordinary work that you do. 

• Start your submission here. Submissions close on March 7 at 5 p.m. PT.
• Have more questions about the awards? Email customermarketing@suse.com.

Good luck!

Cloud Computing vs. Edge Computing: What’s the Difference?

In the dynamic world of digital technology, Cloud Computing and Edge Computing have emerged as pivotal paradigms, reshaping how businesses approach data and application management. While they might appear similar at first glance, these two technologies serve different purposes, offering unique advantages. SUSE, a global leader in open source software, including Linux products, plays a significant role in this technological shift, offering solutions that cater to both cloud and edge computing needs. Understanding the distinctions between Cloud Computing and Edge Computing is crucial for businesses, especially those looking to leverage these technologies for enhanced operational efficiency.

The Role of Cloud Computing

Cloud Computing solutions, a cornerstone of modern IT infrastructure, involve processing and storing data on remote servers accessed via the Internet. This approach offers remarkable scalability and flexibility, allowing businesses to handle vast data volumes without the need for substantial physical infrastructure. Cloud services like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform exemplify this model. SUSE complements this ecosystem with its public cloud solutions, providing a secure, scalable, and open source platform that integrates seamlessly with major cloud providers.

The Emergence of Edge Computing

Edge Computing, in contrast, processes data closer to where it is generated, reducing latency and enhancing real-time data processing capabilities. This technology is vital in applications requiring immediate data analysis, such as IoT devices and smart city infrastructure. SUSE acknowledges the importance of Edge Computing, offering tailored Linux-based solutions that facilitate local data processing, ensuring speed and efficiency in data-sensitive operations.

Synergistic Approach

It’s essential to recognize that Cloud and Edge Computing are not mutually exclusive but often work in tandem. Many enterprises use a hybrid model, employing the cloud for extensive data processing and storage, while utilizing edge computing for real-time, localized tasks. SUSE supports this hybrid approach with its range of products, ensuring businesses can leverage both technologies for a comprehensive, efficient IT infrastructure.

What is the Difference Between Edge and Cloud Computing?

While both Edge and Cloud Computing are integral to modern technology infrastructure, they serve distinct purposes and operate on different principles. Their differences lie primarily in how and where data processing occurs, their latency, and their application in various scenarios.

Location of Data Processing

The most significant difference between Cloud and Edge Computing is the location of data processing. In Cloud Computing, data is sent to and processed in remote servers, often located far from the data source. This centralized processing can handle massive amounts of data, making it ideal for complex computations and large-scale data analysis.

Edge Computing, in contrast, processes data close to where it is generated. Devices at the “edge” of the network, like smartphones, industrial machines, or sensors, perform the processing. This proximity reduces the need to send data across long distances, thereby minimizing latency.

Latency and Speed

Latency is another critical differentiator. Cloud Computing can sometimes experience higher latency due to the time taken for data to travel to and from distant servers. This delay, although often minimal, can be critical in applications requiring real-time data processing, such as in autonomous vehicles or emergency response systems.

Edge Computing significantly reduces latency by processing data locally. This immediacy is crucial in time-sensitive applications where even a small delay can have significant consequences.

Application Scenarios

Cloud Computing is best suited for applications that require significant processing power and storage capacity but are less sensitive to latency. It’s ideal for big data analytics, web-based services, and extensive database management.

Edge Computing, on the other hand, is tailored for scenarios where immediate data processing is vital. It’s used in IoT devices, smart cities, healthcare monitoring systems, and real-time data processing tasks.

In summary, while Cloud Computing excels in centralized, large-scale data processing, Edge Computing stands out in localized, real-time data handling. Businesses often leverage both to maximize efficiency, security, and performance in their digital operations.

What Are the Advantages of Edge Computing over Cloud Computing?

Edge Computing, while not a replacement for Cloud Computing, offers unique advantages in specific contexts. Its benefits are particularly pronounced in scenarios where speed, bandwidth, and data locality are of paramount importance. As a leader in open source software solutions, SUSE recognizes these advantages and integrates them into its products, ensuring businesses can leverage the best of Edge Computing in their operations.

Reduced Latency

The most significant advantage of Edge Computing is its ability to drastically reduce latency. By processing data near its source, edge devices deliver faster response times, essential for applications like autonomous vehicles, real-time analytics, and industrial automation. SUSE’s edge solutions are designed to support these low-latency requirements, enabling real-time decision-making and improved operational efficiency.

Bandwidth Optimization

Edge Computing minimizes the data that needs to be transferred over the network, reducing bandwidth usage and associated costs. This is particularly beneficial for businesses operating in bandwidth-constrained environments. SUSE’s edge-focused products enhance this efficiency, ensuring seamless operation even with limited bandwidth.

Enhanced Security

By processing data locally, Edge Computing can also offer enhanced security. SUSE’s edge solutions capitalize on this by providing robust security features, ensuring data integrity and protection against external threats, especially in sensitive industries like healthcare and finance.

Improved Reliability

Edge Computing provides improved reliability, especially in situations where constant connectivity to a central cloud server is challenging. SUSE’s edge solutions are engineered to maintain functionality even in disconnected or intermittently connected environments, ensuring continuous operation.

Customization and Flexibility

SUSE’s approach to Edge Computing emphasizes customization and flexibility. Their Linux-based edge solutions can be tailored to specific industry needs, allowing businesses to optimize their edge infrastructure in alignment with their unique operational requirements.

What Role Does Cloud Computing Play in Edge AI?

Cloud Computing and Edge AI (Artificial Intelligence) are two technological trends that are rapidly converging, each playing a pivotal role in the evolution of the other. This synergy is especially apparent in the solutions offered by SUSE, a leader in open source software, which has been instrumental in integrating Cloud Computing with Edge AI applications.

Complementary Technologies

In the realm of Edge AI, Cloud Computing serves as a complementary technology. It provides the substantial computational power and storage capacity necessary for training complex AI models. These models, once trained in the cloud, can be deployed at the edge, where they perform real-time data processing and decision-making. This approach leverages the cloud’s robustness and the edge’s immediacy, making for an efficient, scalable AI solution.

SUSE’s Edge AI Support

SUSE has recognized this interplay and offers specialized Edge AI support that integrates seamlessly with cloud environments. SUSE’s range of Cloud Native solutions, with its Linux offerings, provides optimal support for the execution of AI workloads at the Edge.

Data Management and Analytics

Cloud Computing also plays a crucial role in managing and analyzing the vast amounts of data generated by Edge AI devices. SUSE’s cloud solutions facilitate the aggregation, storage, and analysis of this data, providing valuable insights that can be used to further refine AI models and improve edge device performance. This continuous cycle of data flow between the edge and the cloud enhances the overall effectiveness and accuracy of Edge AI applications.

Enhanced Security and Scalability

Security and scalability are critical in Edge AI, and Cloud Computing addresses these concerns effectively. SUSE’s cloud and edge solutions offer robust security features, safeguarding data as it moves between the edge and the cloud. Additionally, the scalability of cloud infrastructure ensures that as the number of edge devices grows, the system can adapt and manage the increased data load and processing demands without compromising performance.

Collaboration for Innovation

SUSE fosters a collaborative ecosystem where Cloud Computing and Edge AI coexist and complement each other. By utilizing open source technologies, SUSE encourages innovation, allowing businesses to customize and scale their solutions according to their specific needs. This flexibility is vital for companies looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape, where the integration of Cloud Computing and Edge AI is becoming increasingly crucial.

How SUSE Can Help

In the ever-changing landscape of digital technology, businesses face the challenge of adopting and integrating complex computing paradigms like Cloud Computing and Edge Computing. SUSE, as a leading provider of open source software solutions, stands at the forefront of this technological revolution, offering a suite of products and services designed to help businesses navigate and leverage these technologies effectively. SUSE’s Edge solution is a key component of this suite, specifically tailored to address the unique demands of Edge Computing.

Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs

SUSE understands that each business has unique requirements and challenges. To address this, SUSE offers a range of tailored solutions, including SUSE Linux Enterprise, Rancher Prime, and SUSE Edge. These products are designed to cater to different aspects of both Cloud and Edge Computing, ensuring that businesses of all sizes and sectors can find a solution that fits their specific needs.

SUSE Linux Enterprise

SUSE Linux Enterprise is a versatile and robust platform that provides the foundation for both cloud and edge environments. It offers exceptional security, scalability, and reliability, making it ideal for businesses looking to build and manage their cloud infrastructure or deploy applications at the edge.

SLE Micro

SLE Micro, a key offering in this suite, is a lightweight and secure operating system optimized for edge computing environments. It is designed to provide a minimal footprint, which is crucial for edge devices with limited resources. SLE Micro’s robust security features, including secure boot and transactional updates, ensure high reliability and stability, which are essential in the edge’s often challenging operational environments. This makes SLE Micro an ideal choice for businesses looking to deploy applications in edge locations, where resources are constrained and robustness is key.

Rancher Prime

Rancher Prime is an open source container management platform that simplifies the deployment and management of Kubernetes at scale. With Rancher, businesses can efficiently manage their containerized applications across both cloud and edge environments, ensuring seamless operation and integration.

SUSE Edge

SUSE Edge is specifically designed for edge computing scenarios. It provides a lightweight, secure, and easy-to-manage platform, perfect for edge devices and applications. SUSE Edge supports a range of architectures and is optimized for performance in low-bandwidth or disconnected environments.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

In today’s digital world, security and compliance are top priorities. SUSE’s solutions are built with security at their core, offering features like regular updates, security patches, and compliance tools. These features ensure that businesses can protect their data and infrastructure against the latest threats and meet regulatory standards.

Open Source Flexibility and Innovation

As an advocate of open source technology, SUSE offers unparalleled flexibility and access to innovation. Businesses using SUSE products can benefit from the collaborative and innovative nature of the open source community. This access to a broad pool of resources and expertise allows for rapid adaptation to new technologies and market demands.

Scalability and Reliability

SUSE’s solutions are designed to be scalable and reliable, ensuring that businesses can grow and adapt without worrying about their infrastructure. Whether scaling up cloud resources or expanding edge deployments, SUSE’s products provide a stable and scalable foundation.

Expert Support and Services

SUSE offers comprehensive support and services to assist businesses at every step of their technology journey. From initial consultation and deployment to ongoing management and optimization, SUSE’s team of experts is available to provide guidance and support. This service ensures that businesses can maximize the value of their investment in SUSE products.

Empowering Digital Transformation

By choosing SUSE, businesses position themselves at the cutting edge of digital transformation. SUSE’s solutions enable seamless integration of cloud and edge computing, facilitating new capabilities like real-time analytics, IoT, and AI-driven applications. This integration drives efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage.

In conclusion, SUSE’s range of products and services offers businesses the tools they need to effectively embrace and integrate Cloud and Edge Computing into their operations. With SUSE, businesses gain a partner equipped to help them navigate the complexities of modern technology, ensuring they stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

It is beautiful in June, in Berlin!

I am very excited about the upcoming SUSECON 2024, to be held at the Estrel Congress Center in Berlin, 17-19 June. 

Featuring our theme Choice Happens, our annual global event brings customers, partners, and the entire community together to discuss business and technical opportunities and how to successfully leverage the right open source solutions – both today and in the future. 

We are planning two and a half days of great content, including in-depth technical tutorials, hands-on labs, free certification testing and customers sharing first-hand experiences. 

From innovations of individual products all the way to complete solutions, we have so much to share. What better time to bring together technology experts, practitioners and decision makers to showcase innovations and successful projects and learn from each other as part of the broad SUSE community.

We would love to see you there and there are plenty of ways to get involved in this year’s show outside of traditional attendance. 

• Call for Papers: Submit your ideas to host a session; we especially welcome collaborations with customers or partners; open until 23 February
• Sponsorship Prospectus: Become a sponsor; open until 20 May
• Customer Awards: For the first time this year we’re excited to launch our SUSE Choice Awards, celebrating customers who use our solutions to not only drive business success but also create positive impacts on the economy, environment, and society. Apply today; nominations are open until March 7. 

All of this combined with leadership keynotes, content specifically curated for business decision makers, and an expo hall with a myriad of demos, makes me believe that it is indeed going to be a beautiful June in Berlin! Registration will open on March 5. 

The benefits of Generative AI are real and evolving. Businesses and people can level up their game by saving time, accessing expertise, finding new ideas, and expressing creativity across new mediums. I find it very exciting to be in IT right now, as we get to not just experience, but also drive ourselves the impact of computing as a utility in our world. Just imagine when everyone has access to a Jarvis-like assistant as Tony Stark does in the Avengers!

Having access to billions of inputs in a dynamic platform is life changing – however, it is increasingly clear that knowing the source of those billions of inputs is just as important. In order for AI to fully reach maturity, it needs to be clear to people who use it where information and output generated by AI come from, and what inherited burdens exist, so it can be used with confidence. Traceability, security by design and accountability are vital to help organizations manage those risks. 

Open source & AI

Open source is obviously a natural partner and platform to help solve many of these issues. A recent Deep Dive: AI report from the Open Source Initiative (OSI) highlights three crucial areas of AI policy setting that would benefit from being driven by the open source perspective and ethos: open data sets, regulatory guardrails and legal frameworks for ethical AI. To me this means community led development, engagement and rule-setting; collaborative working and problem-solving. How these could interface with AI will be some of the many areas of discussion at the EU Open Source Policy Summit in Brussels this week – where SUSE will have a presence, participating in the discussion.

Our customers are already grappling with what to do with AI – and equally what not to do. For example – how to incorporate AI into high performance workloads while preserving quality and efficiency. How to run AI on open source, and how to incorporate Open Source into AI environments. How to make the most of the benefits of AI while keeping legal security and certainty, in as transparent a way as possible. This will be particularly vital as legislative attention on AI increases globally, and which we anticipate will result in regulation requiring traceability and accountability for GenAI outputs.  

SUSE’s approach

These are questions we too are therefore trying to answer. We are of course like countless other organizations a beneficiary of AI technology, but we also have a more specific role to play here too. We’re heavily invested into the development of open source policy as a leading and long time vendor of open source technology to enterprise. We are committed to contributing to the development of community-based standards for safe, secure use of generative AI in commercial products. Our customers expect us to continuously balance innovation, usability and security in the products and services we provide.  The approach to AI is no different.  As such, we’re currently testing generative AI tools in controlled environments to help us assess how we can deploy them safely on an enterprise basis. 

Our customers are also looking to us to balance automation capabilities with the huge continuing value in human capital. Whilst there is undoubtedly great potential in the capabilities of AI, at SUSE, we want to harness and leverage that capability whilst continuing to invest in, and maximize, the depth of skill and expertise of our people. For us, we see great benefit in developing the potential of AI and our people in a complementary way. 

We will use the outcomes of our ongoing testing with AI to inform both how we operate as a company, and to pass on the benefit of our experiences to customers to help them navigate this new reality.We’re already seeing quite a variety in cost/benefit/risk across differing use cases. Guiding the broader development community on when to use AI, and equally when not to use AI, will be critical. 

As an open source organization that is part of a wider ecosystem, we want to be transparent in how we participate. For over 30 years, our customers have been able to benefit from the rapid pace of innovation in open source without having had to take on the risk and burden of trying to do this themselves. We’ll continue to help our customers embrace the rewards and navigate the risks of this latest milestone in that journey – AI. 

How about you?

This is our approach – I’m keen to hear how you are exploring AI use cases in open source. Do reach out to start a conversation.

Using NeuVector to Reduce Risk in Kubernetes

Kubernetes has become the de-facto standard for container orchestration platforms and is widely used in business-critical infrastructure in enterprises of all sizes. With this popularity comes an increase in focus for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities and misconfigurations in Kubernetes clusters. The orchestration layer system resources, as well as the application workloads running on it, are all prime targets for attackers.

The non-profit organization OWASP, famous for its OWASP Top 10 web application attacks, recently published its initial draft of the OWASP Kubernetes Top 10 outlining Kubernetes’ top 10 security risks.

The summary table below describes each risk and how the NeuVector open source container security platform can mitigate possible exploits. For a complete description of each risk vector and the NeuVector security control, download the complete guide.

What’s Next?

The risk of attackers gaining access to critical resources continues to grow, especially for new cloud technologies such as containers and Kubernetes. In addition to the traditional zero-day application attacks, exploits of misconfigured Kubernetes systems or workload configurations are a real threat to business continuity. A layered security strategy is always the best way to mitigate risk. Security should have several layers through which attackers must penetrate before being able to access critical resources and data. However, as seen in the summary above, the NeuVector container security platform provides many of the controls and layers required to detect and prevent exploits.

Download the complete guide for a complete description of each risk vector and the NeuVector security control.

I’m pleased to share that G2, the world’s largest and most trusted tech marketplace, has recognized our solutions in its 2024 Winter Report. We received 29 badges across our business units for Rancher Prime, Longhorn, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) and SUSE Manager – as well as one badge for the openSUSE community with Tumbleweed.

We continue to build on the momentum of hitting 30 years of service to our customers, partners and the open source communities last year. Receiving 30 badges this quarter – double the badge count from this time last year – reinforces the depth and breadth of our strong product portfolio and the dedication our team provides for our customers.

G2 awarded Rancher seven badges, including Leader in the EMEA – DevOps, Leader, Enterprise Europe – DevOps, Enterprise – Container Management and Container Management categories.

Longhorn made the list for the first time with a badge for High Performer – Cloud Platform as a Service.

SLES received Leader badges for SAP Store, Server Virtualization and Infrastructure as a Service. G2 also recognized SLES for Best Support, Enterprise Relationship Index – Server Virtualization and Best Support, Mid Market Relationships Index – Server Virtualization as well as Easiest To Do Business With, Enterprise Relationship Index – Server Virtualization.  

SUSE Manager (SUMA) received two Leader badges: EMEA – Patch Management and Patch Management.

Here’s what some of our customers said in their reviews on G2:

Rancher

“Rancher is a great product for professional entry into the Kubernetes environment.”

“Rancher [is] the complete orchestration stack.”

Longhorn

“Pretty awesome. It provides you with the ability to secure, provision and back up your storage across Kubernetes cluster.”

“Delivers simplified, easy to deploy and upgrade, 100% open source, cloud-native persistent block storage without the cost overhead of open core or proprietary alternatives.”

“An affordable Kubernetes storage. Longhorn is one of the best options when it comes to selecting persistent storage for Kubernetes.”

SUSE Manager:

“Great management tool! You can consolidate and save a lot of time and effort to manage Linux environments.”

“Powerful and reliable. I can manage a variety of Linux distributions from one tool. The API is well documented, so it is easy to script and automate.”

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server

“SLES [is] the best [for] SAP environments.”

“Dependable Linux Enterprise Distribution”

What’s Next?

Visit G2 to read reviews and share your review of SUSE solutions.