How AI-powered cybersecurity takes quality of experience to the next level

We understand the top challenges that telecoms operators are facing right now. You want to reduce churn, all while providing more value-added services and repeatable revenue opportunities. And today’s cybersecurity needs are evolving rapidly too, so relying solely on traditional methods is no longer sufficient.

 

Traditional cybersecurity approaches, like core DNS servers, static firewalls and signature-based antivirus, react to threats only after they occur. A lot like basic alarm systems that alert you only after a break-in… not very helpful.

 

So what’s needed now?

What’s needed now are solutions that offer continuous monitoring and proactive threat response. AI-powered cybersecurity that integrates with operator hardware is one of the most effective ways for ISPs to introduce a proactive, predictive approach that transforms how they manage their networks and enhance the quality of experience (QoE) for their subscribers.

 

The challenges facing ISPs

Telecom operators grapple with various challenges, including:

• Complex customer base: Managing diverse customers across mobile and broadband subscribers
• Multiple tariffs: Integrating security services across different pricing plans
• Legacy hardware: Balancing new technology rollouts with existing infrastructure

 

These hurdles are compounded by increasing customer expectations for seamless and secure online experiences. Operators are now expected to provide robust cybersecurity services as part of their standard offerings, making it crucial to innovate and adapt quickly.

 

 

 

 

What is AI-powered cybersecurity?

AI-powered cybersecurity leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse vast amounts of data in real-time. This allows for the detection of patterns and anomalies that might indicate potential threats. Unlike traditional methods that react to known threats based on predefined signatures, AI can predict and prevent new, unknown threats before they cause harm. This shift from reactive to proactive security is a game-changer for ISPs.

 

Enhancing QoE with AI-powered cybersecurity

Quality of experience (QoE) is a critical factor for customer satisfaction and retention. Here’s how AI-powered cybersecurity can significantly enhance QoE for ISPs:

Predictive threat detection

AI algorithms analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that signal potential threats. This predictive capability allows operators to address issues before they impact users, ensuring a smoother and more secure online experience

Seamless integration

AI-powered solutions, such as those provided by BlackDice and Mercku, integrate seamlessly with existing hardware. This minimises disruption and allows for quick deployment, enhancing both operational efficiency and user satisfaction

Comprehensive network visibility

AI provides operators with a complete view of network performance, highlighting areas that need attention. This visibility helps in optimising network resources and improving service delivery, which translates to better QoE for subscribers

 

BlackDice and Mercku collaboration

We’ve collaborated with Mercku, a leading designer and manufacturer of smart Wi-fi devices, and have embedded their latest smart routers with BlackDice software.

The collaboration brings together cutting-edge AI-powered cybersecurity software and advanced router hardware, offering ISPs a powerful out-of-the-box solution to enhance their network security and QoE, through:

• Continuous monitoring: Unlike traditional core DNS servers that act like basic alarm systems alerting you after a break-in, AI-powered cybersecurity offers continuous monitoring and proactive threat response
• Enhanced security: The combination of hardware and AI-driven software provides robust security features integrated with your existing infrastructure
• Scalability and efficiency: The solution scales easily with your network, offering high efficiency with minimal disruption
• Proactive protection: Stay ahead of evolving cyber threats with agile, data-driven insights that keep your network secure and your subscribers protected

 

Why focus on AI-powered routers?

Cybersecurity is more effective when applied to the one thing that’s always on: routers. Software-powered routers provide operators with the agility, data insights, and proactive protection required to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. This keeps your network secure and the people and businesses who use it protected.

 

Key takeaways for ISPs

 

For product managers:

• Integrate advanced cybersecurity with existing services: Leverage AI to enhance your current offerings without overhauling your entire infrastructure
• Scale security across device and network landscapes: Ensure comprehensive protection across all connected devices
• Speed up time-to-market for new services: Quickly deploy new value-added services with minimal disruption

 

For commercial/CX leaders:

• Differentiate your offerings in a crowded market: Stand out with top-tier security and value-added features
• Reduce churn and enhance QoE: Offer superior protection and service quality to retain customers
• Boost average revenue per user (ARPU): Leverage cybersecurity as a premium service to increase revenues

 

For CTOs and security specialists:

• Balance robust security with smooth network performance: Maintain high security standards without compromising network speed or reliability
• Integrate new security features with existing SOC tools: Seamlessly add advanced protection to your current security operations centre (SOC)
• Advanced threat detection and automated remediation: Use AI to detect and neutralise threats automatically, ensuring continuous protection

 

By embracing AI-powered cybersecurity, ISPs can not only tackle current challenges but also unlock new opportunities for growth and customer satisfaction. The combination of BlackDice’s software and Mercku’s hardware provides a robust, scalable solution that meets the evolving needs of telecoms operators and their diverse subscriber base.

 

---

Ready to transform your network security and QoE?

Now’s your chance to participate in our exclusive Proof of Value (PoV) programme, and experience the power of AI-driven cybersecurity with data intelligence technology embedded directly into Mercku’s state-of-the-art routers.

If you’re ready to join the ranks of forward-thinking telecom operators, then register your interest in our PoV programme. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the powerful combination of hardware and software to increase your security posture and improve data intelligence.

---