Understanding the Future of Technology Through Predictions from Leaseweb’s CEO
Recent advancements in technology and shifting paradigms in computing are ushering in a new era for businesses. Drawing insights from Richard Copeland, CEO of Leaseweb USA, we dive into three key predictions that shape how organizations will harness technology, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing.
Trusted Execution Environment Technology: The Game Changer for Security
One of the most exciting areas of development is the rise of Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) technologies. These secure zones within a system memory are designed to protect data and ensure that computations are conducted safely, isolated from potentially harmful intrusions.
Copeland predicts that by 2026, TEE will transition from being an intriguing concept to a pivotal element in cybersecurity strategies. “Organizations will be able to secure memory and hardware in ways that were previously unfeasible,” he states. This means a significant shift in how companies manage their data across various cloud platforms, boosting resilience by allowing workloads to be diversified rather than confined to a single hyperscaler.
Importantly, this transition is driven not by financial constraints but by a fundamental shift in organizational behavior. Businesses are starting to focus more on securing their applications and systems based on their actual needs, rather than just who controls the data center. As a result, companies can explore innovative architectures for emerging technologies, including blockchain and AI, gaining the confidence to mitigate risks without compromising security.
AI Takes on New Roles: Beyond Optimizing to Replacing Tasks
Copeland also sheds light on the evolution of AI, specifically around the concept of agentic AI—intelligent systems capable of performing tasks with minimal human intervention. He foresees a leap in AI’s capabilities, stating, “In 2026, agentic AI will start replacing complete workflows.” This advancement signifies that AI will not merely complement human work; rather, it will liberate individuals from monotonous tasks, enabling them to focus on more impactful contributions.
This shift has implications beyond technical efficiency. Companies that embrace agentic AI will outpace competitors who resist change as they learn to utilize AI for real decision-making. Moreover, as businesses increasingly integrate AI into everyday operations, they will notice a trend of cloud repatriation—moving services away from major hyperscalers due to challenges like outages and complex billing structures. The simplified infrastructure needed for effective AI operations will encourage this shift toward regional providers better tailored for AI workloads.
The Growing Importance of GPU Optimization and Security
A critical aspect of technological advancement is maximizing GPU utilization. Copeland highlights that most organizations currently make use of only around 60% of the GPU power they’re paying for, which is a substantial inefficiency. By 2026, he predicts that new optimization software will emerge to change this scenario dramatically, enabling businesses to extract full value from their GPU infrastructure.
This evolution is vital, especially for organizations deploying AI, where reliable model performance can be the difference between success and failure. With decreased wastage in compute power and improved performance, businesses can maintain a competitive edge in the AI landscape.
However, rising cyber threats complicate this landscape. As criminals employ AI to enhance their attacks, larger cloud environments become prime targets. The multitude of tenants in these systems amplifies the potential vulnerabilities. Consequently, Copeland suggests that companies will gravitate towards regional cloud providers, which often present a more secure environment, offering rigorous vetting processes and fewer chances for breaches from outside threats.
Navigating the Future with Strategic Adaptations
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, organizations must remain vigilant and adaptive. The insights provided by Richard Copeland highlight the imperative nature of embracing these advancements not just for operational efficiency, but also for securing data and fostering innovation. By focusing on TEE technologies, leveraging agentic AI, and optimizing GPU performance, businesses can create robust, flexible frameworks to thrive in the face of growing technological demands and cyber threats. The future promises potential, but it will require a proactive and informed approach to harness it effectively.
