AI and HPC workloads are transforming data center networking by creating distinct front-end and back-end network domains, each with different performance, scalability, and operational requirements. While front-end networks connect users, applications, storage, and management systems, back-end networks provide the high-speed connectivity required among GPUs, accelerators, and compute nodes. This white paper examines the architectural and security considerations associated with these specialized networks and explains how data center operators can protect critical data and communications without compromising the performance demanded by distributed AI and HPC workloads.
