Biden signs Executive Order to push AI-ready infrastructure

US President Joe Biden has signed an Executive Order to facilitate the development of AI-ready infrastructure. The initiative will see the establishment of cutting-edge AI data centres and clean power resources, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and scalable computing power. This aligns with a global effort to ensure that network infrastructures are capable of supporting the rapidly evolving AI technologies.

Ivo Ivanov, CEO of the global internet exchange operator DE-CIX, commented on the growing concerns over AI network infrastructure, emphasising the necessity of synthesising advanced data centres, network infrastructure, and high-performance Internet and Cloud Exchanges. Such integration, he noted, is crucial to realising AI's potential and revolutionising the economy. Ivanov further highlighted the importance of a sustainable approach, noting that America's energy-conscious developments would serve as an important milestone in achieving next-generation, AI-ready connectivity.

Parallel to the United States' initiative, the United Kingdom has introduced its 'AI Action Plan' to expedite AI deployments across various governmental departments. The move is seen as an effort to boost the UK's economy through AI-driven innovations, indicating a shared global vision for AI's role in future economic landscapes.

In the realm of cybersecurity, President Biden's executive mandate seeks to bolster the United States' defence against emerging digital threats. The order encompasses a wide range of security concerns, including those related to supply chains, ransomware incidents, and AI implementations.

Karl Mattson, Chief Information Security Officer at Endor Labs, noted the executive order's emphasis on software security, aligning with existing private sector trends. The order advocates for improved software development practices focusing on transparency and accountability, which Mattson describes as crucial to countering potential cyber risks.

Further analysis from Cory Michal, Chief Security Officer at AppOmni, outlined the executive order's establishment of critical cybersecurity measures for businesses and government agencies. The requirements mandate the adoption of secure software development practices and the implementation of phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication. This is part of a broader strategy to enhance cloud security and ensure robust defences are in place across federal systems.

However, some challenges have been highlighted, particularly around compliance. Michal stressed that smaller vendors might find attesting to secure software practices demanding, due to resource constraints. He also pointed out the potential resistance from agencies regarding real-time telemetry data sharing, citing operational disruption and concerns over sensitive data handling.

Jonathan Gill, CEO at Panaseer, acknowledged the significance of the executive order's call for evidence-based cybersecurity practices, recognising it as an issue of national security. Gill remarked that many organisations would struggle to provide the necessary evidence due to the complexity of existing IT environments, despite often having the requisite data.

The announcement will come with considerable implications for data centres, software security, and government agencies.