The Metaverse has been a huge conversation topic in 2022, but there is still very little knowledge on what it is and how it will impact our lives and technological landscape. This is partially because it doesn’t quite exist yet and will take years to develop into its final form (as all technology does). The internet, for example, has existed since the 70’s but it looks and is used completely different than was ever imagined.
What we do know is that all data, cloud, and internet related items require infrastructure to operate. Your cloud photo library might seem like it’s floating in space, but it’s actually stored on a server owned by a large company. The Metaverse will be no different, except that it will require upwards of 1000 times the amount of computing power, speed, and storage than we are currently using today. So, what does this mean for IT Infrastructure? Let’s dive into it.
As we mentioned above, we don’t really know exactly what the metaverse will look like in the future. From a work perspective it could be used as a highly realistic (and potentially uncomfortable) video conferencing tool where everyone is virtually sitting around a conference table together. It could be used for highly immersive gaming experiences like virtual reality. It could be used by shoppers to try on clothes or purchase any retail item by simulating an in person buying experience. It is essentially opening the door to having in person experiences, virtually.
While our current virtual reality systems have come a long way, the metaverse has the potential to evolve into feeling like the real world. The metaverse will open the door to changes in how we work, shop, spend money, and make money. Enough about the metaverse itself, how will this impact IT infrastructure?
As IT infrastructure experts, we think about the foundation of these new shiny technological advancements. The data center, bandwidth, cybersecurity, and cabling that will be required to enable the Metaverse to operate is going to be massive. These changes will be gradual as all things are, but they are coming sooner than you think. We already witnessed huge changes over the past 3 years when working and learning remotely became the norm. Businesses of all sizes had to upgrade their IT infrastructure to support UCaaS solutions, video conferencing, VPN, and cloud usage.
The Metaverse is going to open a new form of virtual connectivity between personal and work lives that we haven’t seen before. The biggest challenge will be computing power, scalability, and interoperability between discrete metaverses. As with any advancement in technology, new doors will open for hackers and cyber-attacks. It is not too soon for businesses to begin preparing their networks, bandwidth, and cybersecurity protocols for the future.
We would love to hear your perspective on the Metaverse and how you think it will change business, IT infrastructure, and the global market. Reach out to use at ContactUs@Matrix-NDI.com or call 763-475-5500.