Gartner Research

Critical Capabilities for Network Services, Global

Published: 22 February 2023

Summary

When choosing providers for WAN services, I&O leaders focus on performance, cost optimization and agility. I&O leaders should assess providers’ WAN services; cloud interconnect; managed, software-defined WAN; and network function virtualization and universal customer premises equipment products.

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Overview

Key Findings
  • The service providers in this research offer carrier-based cloud interconnect solutions from their own facilities; however, many rely on external entities to extend their geographical reach.

  • Eleven of the 12 providers support at least three software-defined WAN vendors and, at a minimum, support routing, security and optimization virtual network functions.

  • All providers in this research have expanded their internet-based transport options by introducing more local internet service provider partners, and six out of 12 providers have introduced enhanced internet services, as well as increased peering with cloud providers.

  • All providers have improved their security services, and most have launched managed, secure

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  • AT&T
  • BT
  • Colt Technology Services
  • Comcast
  • Deutsche Telekom
  • GTT Communications
  • Lumen
  • NTT
  • Orange Business Services
  • Tata Communications
  • Verizon
  • Vodafone
  • MPLS Services, North America
  • MPLS Services, Latin America
  • MPLS Services, Europe
  • MPLS Services, Asia/Pacific
  • MPLS Services, Global
  • Carrier-Based Cloud Interconnect
  • Managed SD-WAN
  • uCPE/NFV Services
  • Network on Demand
  • Internet Services, North America
  • Internet Services, Latin America
  • Internet Services, Europe
  • Internet Services, Asia/Pacific
  • Internet Services, Global
  • Intra-North America Network
  • Intra-Latin America Network
  • Intra-Europe Network
  • Intra-Asia/Pacific Network
  • Global Network

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Critical Capabilities: A deeper look into provider offerings

How does a Critical Capabilities report work?

As a companion to the Magic Quadrant™, a Critical Capabilities report scores competing products and services against a set of meaningful differentiators. It reveals which options are the best fit in various use cases to help you focus on the vendors best suited to your needs.

A Critical Capabilities report is more than just a diagram. You also get:

Sharper focus

Narrow down the product and service criteria most important to you.

Individualized use cases

Use interactive features to customize usage scenarios based on your organization’s unique needs.

Faster decision making

Use data to speed up provider selection and accelerate the procurement process.

A Gartner Critical Capabilities report is just one of our many offerings.

We provide actionable, objective insight to help organizations make smarter, faster technology decisions to stay ahead of disruption and accelerate growth.

Pick the right provider with confidence

We use a Critical Capabilities report, the Magic Quadrant and more to ensure you select the best-fit provider to avoid the costly repercussions of a poor decision.

Align deal structures and optimize spend

We benchmark pricing against the market so you avoid unnecessary charges.

Reduce complexity and risk

We analyze contract terms and conditions to protect you against future price increases and unanticipated costs.

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