Enterprises operate in diverse network environments that require tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach and seek cloud-like, subscription-based consumption models for their network services.
While SD-WAN has traditionally been delivered through vendor-proprietary hardware, the option to host the solution as a virtual network function (VNF) on a universal CPE (uCPE)/virtual CPE (vCPE) allows Communication SPs to address the enterprise need for flexibility, agility, and operational simplicity at the enterprise edge.
The ability to automate operations is a critical requirement for enterprises and the more assistance that a managed SP (MSP) can offer, the more competitive it will be in the market.
The demand for integrated offerings in secure network service solutions is increasing, which covers three areas namely, software-defined networking (such as SD-WAN, SD-LAN, and flexible network core), virtual network services (such as vRouter, and vLoad balancer), and integrated security (such as firewall as a service [FWaaS], zero trust network access [ZTNA], and CASB).
IDC says vendors should pursue offering integrated solutions that cover all these key areas and provide it as a managed service.
"The Asia/Pacific region has witnessed a significant shift in software-defined networking, moving from SD-WAN to a more comprehensive range of secure virtual network services," said Nikhil Batra, Research Director, IDC Asia/Pacific Telecom Practice.
"This evolution is driven by the growing enterprise demand for flexible, reliable, and secure access to cloud-native applications and distributed workloads and address broader enterprise digital transformation initiatives."
Nikhil Batra
"To this end, comms SPs are offering a broader range of services, including SASE framework-driven solutions that combine networking and security capabilities. However, not all offerings are created equal, and various SPs are positioning themselves in different ways to stand out in a highly competitive market," concluded Batra.
Leading the pack
According to the IDC MarketScape: Asia/Pacific Communication SP Secure Virtual Network Services 2023 Vendor Assessment, NTT, Orange Business, Singtel and Tata Communications are identified (in alphabetical order) as “Leaders” among Communication SP Secure Virtual Network Service vendors, followed closely by "Major Players" in the market namely (in alphabetical order) AT&T, Telstra, Verizon and Vodafone.
