ISG Initiates AI-Focused Study on Software-Defined Networking Services for Enhanced Network Management

ISG Launches Comprehensive Study on AI-Enhanced Software-Defined Networking Services

Information Services Group (ISG), a leading global technology research and advisory firm headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, is undertaking a significant research initiative to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of software-defined networking (SDN) services. This study particularly focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing network performance. As organizations increasingly adopt SDN solutions to enhance their network management capabilities, ISG aims to provide valuable insights through a series of reports titled Network – Software-Defined Solutions and Services, scheduled for release in June 2025.

The research will encompass an extensive evaluation of various SDN service providers, assessing offerings in critical areas such as managed SD-WAN services, SD network transformation, edge technologies—including private 5G—and secure access service edge (SASE) solutions. By surveying over 160 providers within the global SDN market, ISG plans to categorize SDN services that enterprises typically procure across four main quadrants: Managed SD-WAN Services, SDN Transformation Services, Edge Technologies and Services, and Secure Access Service Edge. This structured approach is designed to aid enterprise buyers in evaluating vendor relationships and discovering potential new solutions that align with their network management strategies.

Heiko Henkes, director and principal analyst at ISG Research, highlights the growing trend of enterprises centralizing the management of their distributed network assets. This shift not only enhances operational flexibility but also drives cost reductions and facilitates AI-driven optimization of network performance. By providing a comprehensive framework for understanding SDN services, ISG’s research will empower organizations to navigate the complexities of modern networking, ultimately streamlining their strategies for managing distributed networks and addressing the challenges posed by increasing connectivity demands.

In addition to evaluating service providers, ISG's research will also explore transformational consulting, implementation, and support services offered by SD-WAN providers. The study will examine the role of edge technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and software-defined local area networks (SD-LAN), in shaping the future of enterprise networking.

This initiative underscores ISG's commitment to delivering actionable insights that assist enterprises in making informed decisions about their network infrastructures. As the demand for reliable and efficient networking solutions continues to rise, the findings from this research are poised to play a crucial role in guiding organizations through the evolving landscape of software-defined networking.