So far, systems management and data mining have been handled by statistical analysis. This approach relied heavily on real-life modeling, which was often difficult to quantify and translate into rigid mathematical terms. But neugents proved able to breeze past such roadblocks. They don't have any concept of cause and effect or why something happens. They only know that they've observed a certain cluster of actions which on average yields a certain cluster of results.
Analysts say the market for neugents is practically boundless.
The software can be applied in multibillion-dollar industries, ranging from chemicals and finance to entertainment. Their chores mainly include data gathering and network security, and they can manage anything from a single NT server to a companywide network. To be sure, this technology has been around for 15 years. But so far most applications have been just one-time projects for large clients like banks and handled by experts with Ph.D.s in white coats. Neugents are learning algorithms.