NaaS Providers Step Up to Meet Enterprise Cloudification Needs

For decades, enterprises have migrated applications, compute resources, and data storage to the cloud, yet networking has lagged behind. Historically, networking relied on costly, complex, on-premises infrastructure and management tools, making it the slowest sector of IT to adapt.

Many organizations clinging to outdated legacy networks face challenges integrating modern networking solutions. These systems often hinder efficiency, relying on slow provisioning and maintenance processes. As business demands for fast, secure, and efficient data movement escalate, particularly with the rise of AI and big data workloads, networking must finally embrace “cloudification” or, more aptly, the SaaS-ification of networks.

This shift enables enterprises to outsource network management to trusted providers, much like software solutions such as Salesforce and Workday. The transition is also accelerated by remote work trends and the need for connectivity across edge deployments and distributed offices.

The Importance of Rethinking Network Strategies

Choosing the right network approach is critical. Legacy systems, once limited to physical nodes and enterprise campuses, no longer meet the demands of today’s digital-first business landscape. Networks must now be scalable, resilient, and operationally efficient, ensuring uninterrupted customer service and employee productivity.

Enterprises evaluating their options for modernization often encounter two key players: traditional Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and emerging Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) specialists.

NaaS vs. MSP: Key Differences

Both NaaS and MSPs enable businesses to outsource network management, but they differ significantly in scope and delivery.

NaaS (Network-as-a-Service):

Focus: Offers networking services—like bandwidth, security, and management—on a subscription model, akin to cloud computing for networks.

Delivery: Fully cloud-managed, integrating tools like SD-WAN, zero-trust access, and AI-powered operations for seamless performance.

Scalability: Highly scalable, allowing on-demand adjustments to resources.

Efficiency: Covers the entire network lifecycle, with proactive troubleshooting and automated optimizations.

Cost: Predictable, subscription-based pricing classified as operating expenditure (OPEX).

MSPs (Managed Service Providers):

Focus: Provides a broader menu of IT services, including network management, cybersecurity, and support.

Delivery: Offers a mix of on-site, remote, or hybrid services.

Scalability: Less agile, often requiring manual intervention for scaling.

Control: Customers retain greater oversight, but this can slow response times and add complexity.

Cost: A mix of recurring fees and project-based charges, with less cost predictability.

Join Digital: A Leader in NaaS

Join Digital, a rapidly growing NaaS provider, has redefined network management by offering an entirely hands-off, SaaS-like experience. Its platform centralizes network intelligence in the cloud while automating key tasks, from design to ongoing performance optimization.

What Sets Join Digital Apart:

Hands-Free Management: Join takes full responsibility for managing and operating networks, eliminating the need for internal oversight.

Gradual Transition: Enterprises can continue operating legacy systems while scaling into a fully managed NaaS model.

AI-Powered Operations: Proactive troubleshooting and network self-healing ensure reliability and optimal performance, often resolving issues before customers notice.

Zero-Trust Security: Highest levels of security built into every layer of the platform.

Jayesh Patel, Join Digital’s Vice President of Business Development, explains:

“Our customers don’t need to manage dashboards or troubleshoot. We handle everything, so they can focus on their core business.”

The Benefits of SaaS-ification

The SaaS-ification of networks is more than just about simplifying management—it transforms how enterprises interact with their IT infrastructure:

Simplified Operations: Thin-edge, standardized deployments reduce on-premises complexity.

Future-Proofing: Networks evolve effortlessly with new technologies like AI and automated observability tools.

IT Burden Reduction: NaaS automates mundane tasks, freeing IT teams for strategic initiatives.

As enterprises face the dual challenges of growing IT complexity and resource shortages, the SaaS-ification of networks offers a transformative solution. Providers like Join Digital take the concept of NaaS beyond outsourcing, delivering seamless, scalable, and proactive network management.

By adopting a NaaS model, businesses can optimize their networks for the future while focusing on what matters most—their core mission. The era of “hands-free” networking has arrived, and it’s redefining the IT landscape.