Businesses are looking for smarter and more flexible networks to support their digital transformation initiatives, stimulated by the trend for cloud, mobile, big data and the internet of things (IoT). The network needs to evolve to a Network as a Service (NaaS) mode to answer these needs with efficiency, flexibility and security.
As a first step in its NaaS strategy, Orange Business Services has launched Easy Go Network, which provides fully-virtualised network functions (VNF) using SDN technology. Extensively tested in a year-long trial with customers, the service will be available in 75 countries by the end of 2016.
Network as a Service designed for branch offices all over the world
Easy Go Network allows enterprises to instantly provision virtual network functions (VNF) for branch offices with full digital self-service ordering, customer care and reporting functions via a user-friendly portal. The service includes a plug-and-play router on site, eliminating truck rolls for more flexibility and rapid deployment. Network functions will now be available in minutes at any site.
This virtual approach allows CIOs to worry less about the network and focus more on end-user experience. Easy Go Network enables them to introduce new digital services faster in a more automated way and deliver a consistent end-user experience on a global basis. Offered under a month to-month contract, the service is truly on-demand and fully flexible with no upfront investment and no minimum revenue commitment.
Typical customers for Easy Go Network include multinational retailers that need to quickly and affordably open new sites, such as concessions or pop-up stores. Easy Go Network allows them to add additional sites or optional virtualised services in less than five minutes. Enterprises gain full visibility over network usage and one-click security policy enforcement for all sites. And their employees are connected to their tools and ready to engage with end-customers.
At launch, Orange is offering application awareness running on a virtual, adaptive enterprise firewall based on Fortinet Security Fabric technology. The collaboration with Fortinet enables Easy Go Network to offer comprehensive, virtualised security functions, including unified application control, intrusion prevention, web content filtering, spyware prevention and malware defense.
Additional virtualised functions from selected vendors, including application optimisation and WiFi management, are slated for launch in 2017.
“Easy Go Network is an evolution of our enhanced hybrid network strategy. It is designed to help businesses anticipate and address their digital needs fast and within budget. We are using an open-standards based approach to develop our SDN and NFV strategy, and we are planning to launch a universal CPE for larger sites next year. Our ultimate goal is an adaptive network, which we will bring to our customers within the next three years,” said Pierre-Louis Biaggi, vice president, Connectivity Business Unit at Orange Business Services.
Orange Business Services, the Orange branch dedicated to B2B services, is a telecom operator and an IT solutions integrator and applications developer around the world. Its 20,000 employees support companies in all areas of their digital transformation: mobile and collaborative workspaces; IT/cloud infrastructure; fixed and mobile connectivity; private and hybrid networks; applications for Internet of Things, 360° customer experience and Big Data analytics; and cybersecurity.
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