NAAS: THE FUTURE OF NETWORKS

This cloud-based networking paradigm is here to stay and transform modern IT, enhancing flexibility, security, and efficiency for businesses globally

- LT GEN DR S P KOCHHAR

Network as a Service (NaaS) is a cloud-based service model that enables users to easily operate the network and achieve the outcomes they expect from it without owning, building or maintaining their infrastructure. NaaS represents a paradigm shift in networking, providing organisations with a powerful tool to address challenges such as recurring capital costs, staffing and skills shortages, and the increased complexity associated with securing remote access for employees and managing multi-cloud environments.

It brings software-defined networking (SDN), programmable networking, and API-based operation to WAN services, transport, hybrid cloud, multi-cloud, Private Network Interconnect and Internet exchange points. NaaS is capable of replacing several legacy network configurations such as multi-protocol label switching or MPLS and virtual private networks or VPNs, as well as on-premises networking hardware like firewall hardware and load balancers.

NaaS providers enable their customers to set up their networks without hardware, instead, using software delivered over the Internet. NaaS services can range from managed software-defined WAN and network access including wireless to security, unified communications services and more.

WHY DO WE NEED NAAS?