Automation and AI in EMEA Enterprise Networks

This IDC Market Perspective shows how AI and networking are becoming increasingly interdependent in EMEA's digital future. AI-for-networking enables smarter operations, while robust, sovereign network fabrics underpin AI workloads. Local regulatory environments emphasize trust, sovereignty, and sustainability. Strategic alignment with efforts such as the EU's Gaia-X initiative, automation paired with sustainability metrics, and unified national/regional strategies offer the path to digital sovereignty and competitive positioning in the GenAI era."AI is not just reshaping how networks operate - it is redefining EMEA's networking fabric. As organizations embrace AI-driven automation and high-performance infrastructure, the convergence of AI and networking will help drive digital sovereignty, operational efficiency, and sustainable innovation. Vendors, service providers, and enterprises that prioritize AI-ready networks and align with EMEA's regulatory and sustainability goals will be best positioned to thrive in this transformative era," said Len Padilla, senior research director, IDC's European Networking and Life-Cycle Services.