Cloud computing is becoming increasingly attractive for mobile operators.
Capex reductions, the ability to access applications from virtually anywhere, scalability, and increased reliability provide compelling benefits for operators, as they already do for IT managers.
However, unlike pure IT, not all types of network functionalities are suitable for a cloud architecture. Mobile data optimization is one example.
Optimization has many different functions that need special consideration in order to reap the greatest benefits from both data savings and quality of experience. These functions include TCP optimization, image compression, buffer tuning, HTTP optimization, web caching and others.
The good news is that taking data optimization to the cloud does not have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. The decision on how to implement optimization should be based on trade-offs between efficient use of network resources, which is an inherent benefit of cloud architecture, comprehensive reporting, and user quality of experience.
When considering implementing optimization for 3G and 4G networks, it is worth analyzing all the options and then striking a balance between risks and rewards before deciding what and how to migrate to the cloud.