What's Happening?
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are evolving their strategies to offer more than traditional circuit transport by integrating managed overlays and consumption-based models. This shift is driven by the need to accommodate modern enterprise demands for
hybrid WAN solutions. The traditional MPLS, known for its reliability, is now being complemented by SD-WAN for flexibility, MPN for wireless edge access, and NaaS for agile service delivery. MNOs are transitioning from being mere connectivity providers to 'connectivity-plus' platforms, integrating underlay, overlay, and wireless capabilities into programmable, service-based offerings. This change is in response to the growing deployment of private mobile networks and the need for cloud-native connectivity models.
Why It's Important?
The shift in MNO strategies is significant as it reflects the changing landscape of enterprise connectivity. As businesses increasingly rely on cloud and edge computing, the demand for flexible, scalable, and integrated network solutions grows. This evolution allows enterprises to blend various connectivity types to optimize performance, agility, and cost. For MNOs, this transition presents an opportunity to capture new value by offering tailored solutions to specific industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and IoT. The ability to provide a comprehensive, hybrid connectivity solution positions MNOs as indispensable partners in the digital transformation journey of enterprises.
What's Next?
MNOs are expected to continue developing their 'connectivity-plus' platforms, focusing on integrating SD-WAN, MPN, and NaaS into cohesive offerings. This will involve creating open APIs, automation frameworks, and orchestration layers to deliver connectivity as a programmable network service. As enterprises seek more integrated and flexible solutions, MNOs that can manage hybrid architectures end-to-end will likely gain a competitive edge. The focus will be on providing seamless orchestration across mixed underlays, wireless extensions, and cloud on-ramps, ensuring that enterprises can efficiently manage their digital-first operations.
Beyond the Headlines
The transition to hybrid WAN models and the integration of NaaS reflect a broader shift in enterprise IT consumption patterns, moving towards cloud-like, on-demand services. This change not only impacts the technical architecture of enterprise networks but also influences business models and service delivery approaches. MNOs must navigate the complexities of offering programmable, service-rich network platforms while maintaining the reliability and performance of traditional connectivity solutions. The success of this transition will depend on MNOs' ability to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of their enterprise customers.
