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Netskope Research: AI has Increased Demands on Enterprise IT Infrastructure, with Legacy Technology Struggling with Resilience, Performance and Security

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New research from Netskope reveals thoughts from global I&O leaders about how well integrated AI and...

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AI Summary

Netskope's recent research indicates that a majority of IT leaders struggle with rising expectations and inadequate infrastructure to support AI demands. This highlights the growing importance of aligning tech teams with C-suite objectives, presenting an opportunity for Netskope to emphasize its solutions that bridge this gap in the cloud security landscape.

Sentiment Rationale

With rising expectations in AI readiness, Netskope is positioned to capture increased IT spending, potentially boosting its stock value. Previous instances, like increased IT budgets in response to cybersecurity threats, have led to similar bullish trends for firms in this space.

Trading Thesis

NTSK is positioned for growth; anticipate a price increase as AI demand rises.

Market-Moving

  • Only 38% of tech leaders feel prepared for AI infrastructure needs.
  • Increasing expectations may drive demand for Netskope’s solutions.
  • I&O leaders report a need to improve transparency in IT operations.
  • Low confidence in existing systems could lead to higher IT spending.

Key Facts

  • 80% of IT leaders reported rising expectations from senior leadership.
  • Only 38% believe current systems can handle AI demands.
  • Majority feel disconnected from strategic IT conversations.
  • 60% have a reactive mindset on IT infrastructure investments.
  • Netskope positions itself as a leader in AI readiness.

Companies Mentioned

  • Fortune 100 (N/A): Over 30% of these companies use Netskope solutions.

Industry News

This article falls under 'Industry News' as it highlights key insights into the evolving landscape of IT infrastructure and performance expectations, crucial for investors looking to understand the operational challenges that drive demand for cybersecurity solutions such as those offered by Netskope.

Netskope Research Highlights Challenges Facing IT Infrastructure Amid AI Demands

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Netskope (NASDAQ: NTSK), a leader in modern security and networking solutions, has released a new research report demonstrating the increasing challenges faced by infrastructure and operations (I&O) leaders in adapting to the demands of AI technology. Despite the rising expectations from senior leadership, only 38% of I&O leaders feel their current systems can meet these demands, while even fewer (18%) are confident in their team and budget to align with the new performance, resilience, and security standards.

Escalating Expectations in IT

The research indicates that a substantial 80% of I&O leaders regard their organization’s IT infrastructure as critical to achieving business objectives. Moreover, this same percentage has noted an increase in expectations from senior leadership over the past year. Currently, 83% of I&O leaders report feeling heightened pressure in their roles.

  • Soaring Expectations: 80% of I&O leaders acknowledge IT infrastructure's central role in core business goals.
  • Alignment Disconnect: 63% feel disconnected from key strategic discussions around IT decisions.
  • Mutual Barriers: 61% of I&O leaders recognize frustration from CEOs regarding the transparency of IT infrastructure.

Misaligned Objectives and Budget Constraints

Despite the growing importance of AI, many I&O leaders remain focused on long-standing issues such as network performance and security. The findings revealed that I&O leaders perceive a disconnect in priorities, with majorities believing C-suite expectations regarding performance (55%), resilience (58%), and security (59%) to be unrealistic based on current systems.

Furthermore, a significant 60% of I&O leaders acknowledge a reactive ‘if it ain’t broke’ mindset towards IT infrastructure investments, which could hinder the strategic implementation of advanced technologies.

AI Adoption and Infrastructure Challenges

Though AI conversations dominate C-suite discussions on digital transformation, many I&O leaders prioritize enhancing remote access security (43%) and improving network performance visibility (35%) over AI enablement (34%). This reality highlights a gap between I&O and executive leadership.

Mike Anderson, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Netskope, stated, “AI has increased demand on enterprise infrastructure at a pace that legacy systems were never built to support. Our research underscores the need for improved communication between senior leaders and I&O teams, which is essential for overcoming these challenges.”

Recommendations for Stronger C-Suite Alignment

To bridge the gap between I&O teams and C-suite executives, the research proposes five key recommendations:

  • Translate infrastructure decisions into business outcomes, emphasizing agility and risk reduction.
  • Engage proactively in strategic planning to prepare infrastructure for future needs.
  • Advocate for architectural simplicity and avoid reactive, temporary fixes.
  • Provide transparent reporting that creates visibility for senior leaders on IT operations.
  • Position I&O as a facilitator of safe and rapid AI adoption to build trust with executives.

About Netskope

Netskope (NASDAQ: NTSK) stands at the forefront of modern security and networking solutions for the cloud and AI era. With a trusted platform that includes its Zero Trust Engine and NewEdge network, Netskope enables organizations to achieve optimized access and real-time, context-based security across all operational environments.

For more insights, download the complete research report titled Crucial Conversations: Line of Sight, or visit netskope.com.

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