Exploring the Role of Network Automation in Enterprise Network Scalability and Efficiency

Abstract

Network automation has emerged as a critical enabler for addressing the growing complexity and scalability challenges of modern enterprise networks. This study explores the role of network automation in enhancing network scalability, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness through a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis and qualitative insights. Key metrics such as network provisioning time, device support capacity, manual intervention, troubleshooting time, and cost savings were evaluated before and after the implementation of automation tools. The results demonstrate significant improvements, including an 83.33% reduction in provisioning time, a 200% increase in device support, and a 75% decrease in manual intervention. Cost savings were also notable, with operational expenditure (OpEx) and capital expenditure (CapEx) decreasing by 40% and 30%, respectively. Qualitative data from interviews and case studies highlighted additional benefits, such as improved agility, reduced human error, and enhanced compliance. Regression analysis revealed a strong correlation between automation adoption and improvements in scalability, efficiency, and cost reduction, with R² values of 0.85, 0.88, and 0.78, respectively. Despite these benefits, challenges such as implementation complexity, security concerns, and skill gaps were identified as barriers to adoption. The study concludes that network automation is a transformative force for enterprise networks, enabling organizations to achieve greater scalability, efficiency, and cost savings. Future research should focus on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enable predictive and self-healing networks, as well as the potential of hyperautomation to drive end-to-end operational excellence.