In a recent interview with SiGMA News, Juan Aguirre, Chief Commercial Officer of the Irish technology firm Ilkari, shared insights on the evolving role of cloud gaming within the gaming and technology sectors. With a background rooted in data sovereignty and the protection of user information, Aguirre brought a unique perspective to cloud gaming’s challenges and the growing necessity to safeguard data privacy.
According to Aguirre, cloud technology enables scalability and data sovereignty while supporting the industry’s need for compliance and security. “The last two years and the next five years are actually a turning point for this industry,” he observed, pointing out that gaming now faces decisions similar to those in other sectors like fintech and finance, such as managing vast quantities of user data under stringent regulations.
Aguirre stressed the challenge that iGaming companies face in handling sensitive player data: “The iGaming industry is fairly similar to other industries. It’s global, it needs to scale, it has data sovereignty requirements, and it has data privacy issues.” In this high-stakes environment, cloud solutions that prioritise data control are increasingly sought after, he added.
Navigating regulatory complexities in global markets
Aguirre discussed the industry’s shift toward regulation as governments tighten data requirements worldwide. Ilkari, which has recently expanded to South America, aims to address these challenges head-on with a newly opened data centre in Colombia. “Whenever a market becomes regulated, strong local regulations follow,” he explained. As regulatory demands vary across regions, the need for customised solutions grows—a demand that Aguirre and his company are keen to fulfil.
In these regions, Aguirre noted, operators must establish adaptable IT infrastructure that complies with local data sovereignty standards while remaining scalable. “Some are thinking ahead, building infrastructure in a way that is ready for whatever regulation throws at them,” he added. The result is a proactive approach to regulatory compliance, allowing operators to remain agile in a rapidly evolving market, Aguirre argued.
The growing importance of data control
Data control is another pressing issue for iGaming operators, particularly those who have relied on major public cloud providers and are now reconsidering their options. According to Aguirre, “Some customers leaned heavily towards the big hyperscalers and suddenly realised they didn’t know where their data was, and that costs were skyrocketing.” He emphasised the shift in customer priorities as more gaming operators opt to invest in private infrastructure, which helps them mitigate risks and achieve cost control.
The advantages of cloud gaming go beyond cost savings; the infrastructure also promises lower downtime and higher security standards, similar to the needs of financial institutions. As Aguirre observed, “You can’t afford downtime. You need super-high reliability, stringent security, and privacy.”
Ilkari’s bet on the iGaming sector: the new acquisition of Okens Domains
During the interview, Aguirre announced that Ilkari is set to acquire Okens Domains, a leading domain registrar specialising in gaming. This acquisition will offer iGaming companies expanded options for digital protection and domain management, including strong cybersecurity measures against cybersquatting and impersonation.
“Domains are a key entry point into many verticals,” he explained, adding that the acquisition will allow Ilkari to bring its data centre expertise and private cloud offerings to Dawkins’ clientele, making it a valuable addition to the company’s portfolio.
Ilkari’s strategy, Aguirre explained, is to meet the growing demand for privacy-focused, sustainable, and secure cloud solutions in gaming—a vision closely aligned with industry trends and the rising expectations of players and operators alike.
Educating the industry and building awareness
Decision-makers within gaming companies are now well aware of the benefits and risks associated with cloud technology, Aguirre noted. “The industry, along with events like those held by SiGMA, has done a good job of educating the client base,” he said. However, he noted that some smaller companies may still underestimate the challenges of going fully cloud-based.
“Players, on the other hand, want something that works and is 100 percent reliable, or they’ll move on to the next platform,” Aguirre stated, explaining that their focus isn’t on what happens to their data – yet. Today’s players expect uninterrupted service, but Aguirre suggested that the industry should also educate players on the sustainability of their data practices. With the iGaming sector being a heavy consumer of data and processing power, sustainability is becoming a priority. He added, “Our latest data centre now sources 70 percent of its energy from renewable sources.”
Tackling data security challenges in cloud gaming
When asked about potential cybersecurity concerns, Aguirre discussed how Ilkari is aligning its standards with global best practices. “From a security aspect, privacy is paramount,” he said, underlining the importance of safeguarding online domains. As Aguirre pointed out, cybercriminals can exploit minor vulnerabilities to compromise entire IT infrastructures. “We help our customers understand these vulnerabilities. It’s a constant battle.”
The increasing complexity of AI technology adds a layer to this challenge. The incorporation of AI in gaming presents heightened security risks and significant power requirements, which cloud providers must consider when setting up IT infrastructure, noted Aguirre. “The whole technology stack becomes very interesting,” Aguirre said. “We have to do it in a responsible and sustainable manner as well.”
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