Enterprises scaling AI from pilots to core operations are running into data-center constraints: network bottlenecks, security risk, and legacy integration. This study argues Ethernet is the best-fit “AI fabric” versus InfiniBand for most enterprises because it’s cheaper, more interoperable, and easier to staff, while newer congestion-control approaches (e.g., RoCEv2 and emerging standards like UEC) narrow performance gaps. It predicts 2026+ needs—agentic/physical AI, ultra-low latency, massive east-west GPU traffic, sustainability pressure, and AI-driven ops (telemetry, predictive maintenance). The recommended approach: build unified, brownfield/greenfield-friendly Ethernet fabrics with real-time visibility, live patching/zero-downtime protections, and multilayer security (encryption, anomaly detection, RBAC/zero trust), supported by vendor ecosystem partnerships and reference architectures to future-proof investments.

Join for free to read