As businesses evolve and seek more efficient ways to manage their infrastructure, the concept of Network as a Service (NaaS) has become a popular solution. In this post, we’ll explore what NaaS is, how it’s being implemented across different industries, and how FullCtl approaches it. This is a practical and insightful guide to help you understand the growing relevance of NaaS in today’s tech landscape.
What is Network as a Service (NaaS)?
In simple terms, Network as a Service (NaaS) is a model where networking functions are outsourced to a third-party provider. Instead of managing your own hardware, configurations, and network operations, you pay for a service that handles these for you. It’s similar to cloud services, where companies outsource computing or storage, but in this case, it’s networking.
As Chris Grundemann from FullCtl often points out, NaaS is essentially about specialization, allowing businesses to delegate network infrastructure management so they can focus on their core operations.
Key NaaS Offerings
NaaS solutions can vary in scope, and over the past decade, several types have emerged. These range from Software-Defined Wide Area Networks (SD-WAN) to more comprehensive WAN solutions provided by companies like PacketFabric and Megaport. These companies offer connectivity and interconnection services on a pay-as-you-go basis, making it easier for businesses to manage their wide-area networks without maintaining a complex physical infrastructure.
Some companies, like Meter, even provide campus LAN networks as a service, offering a full stack of hardware and software. These providers often manage everything, from hardware installation to ongoing software support. This approach simplifies networking for the customer, allowing them to focus on other areas of their business.
How NaaS Works
When you engage with a NaaS provider, you’re typically buying a complete package that includes hardware, software, and operational management. And it’s usually somewhat of a “black box” — you’re paying someone else to ensure everything works seamlessly without needing to dive into the technical details.
For many businesses, this approach can be beneficial. You no longer need to worry about updating equipment or ensuring your network runs smoothly — the provider does that for you. Moreover, this often involves not just technology but also people. Providers manage the network infrastructure, often owning the hardware, which allows for smoother, more consistent operation.
The FullCtl Approach to NaaS
FullCtl has taken a unique approach to NaaS, focusing on flexibility and transparency. Unlike some providers that offer NaaS as a complete black-box solution, FullCtl allows customers full visibility and control over their network. Also, FullCtl’s approach doesn’t force clients to rip and replace existing hardware, making it a more flexible (and cost effective) solution.
FullCtl offers two primary services:
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Network Automation as a Service – FullCtl deploys and integrates automation tools into the client’s existing network. The client’s team can continue operating the network using these tools, while FullCtl ensures the management system is always up to date and maintained.
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Network Operations as a Service – In addition to providing the automation tools, FullCtl takes over the operational management of the network. This service is ideal for smaller organizations that lack a large in-house networking team, allowing FullCtl to fully manage and operate the network on their behalf.
Cost and Flexibility
One of the significant advantages of FullCtl’s model is that customers don’t have to invest in expensive new hardware. This not only saves money but also preserves flexibility. Service providers, for example, can keep their margins high by controlling hardware costs, as they’re not locked into a single vendor’s hardware ecosystem.
For businesses that require 24/7 network support, FullCtl’s NaaS can be a cost-effective alternative to hiring in-house staff or working with consultants. It’s often possible to have our entire dedicated team managing your network all the time at the same or even a lower cost than relying on current part-time consultants.
Benefits Beyond Cost Savings
While cost savings and ease of management are common reasons companies adopt NaaS, the benefits often go beyond these initial expectations. Many businesses find that once their network is automated and professionally managed, they can quickly adapt to new opportunities. For example, adding a new data center or deploying new services can be done much faster with an agile and automated network.
Additionally, the ability to view and control every aspect of the network through FullCtl’s platform gives customers the strategic advantage of using their network to enable new revenue streams or services. In this way, the network becomes an enabler of growth, not just a necessary expense.
Conclusion
Network as a Service is rapidly becoming the future for many organizations. As businesses continue to specialize, outsourcing networking tasks to companies like FullCtl allows them to focus on what makes their business unique, while ensuring their network is robust, flexible, and scalable. Whether you need automation tools, full network management, or simply want to explore how NaaS can benefit your organization, FullCtl’s flexible approach offers a solution that can grow and adapt with you.
If networking isn’t your core business, why not let experts handle it, so you can concentrate on what makes your company stand out?