Software-Defined Approaches Modernize U.S. Networks

Key Terms

software-defined networking technical

Software-defined networking is a way to control and manage computer networks using centralized software rather than relying on many individual hardware switches and routers. Think of it like replacing a room full of manual light switches with a single app that can rewire lighting patterns instantly. It matters to investors because it can cut costs, speed rollouts, improve security updates, and enable more flexible, scalable services that drive revenue and reduce capital spending.

sd-wans technical

A software-defined wide area network (SD‑WAN) is a technology that uses software to intelligently route and manage data across multiple internet and private connections, replacing or augmenting traditional hardware-based WANs. It matters to investors because SD‑WANs can lower networking costs, speed cloud and branch connectivity, and enable easier security and performance updates—factors that affect revenue, margins, and capital spending for firms that provide, use, or depend on network infrastructure.

secure access service edge technical

A secure access service edge (SASE) is a cloud-based approach that combines network connectivity and security services into a single, managed platform so users and branch offices connect safely to applications no matter where they are. Think of it as a remote traffic-control center that both routes digital traffic and checks credentials and content as it passes; for investors, SASE matters because it influences demand for cloud security and networking providers and can change operating costs and competitive positions across many industries.

sase technical

SASE, or Secure Access Service Edge, is a modern technology that combines network security and access management into a single, cloud-based service. It ensures that users can safely connect to company resources from anywhere, much like having a secure, virtual gatekeeper that protects digital information. For investors, SASE matters because it reflects how organizations are adopting advanced security measures to support flexible, remote work environments and protect valuable data.

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Cloud adoption accelerates network transformation for secure, resilient enterprise connectivity across distributed environments, ISG Provider Lens^® report says

STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- U.S. organizations are replacing conventional network architectures with software-defined environments that improve resilience, simplify management and support distributed operations, according to a new research report published today by Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm.

The 2026 ISG Provider Lens^® Network — Software-Defined Solutions and Services report for the U.S. finds that enterprises are expanding software-defined networking (SD-networking) as cloud adoption, remote and hybrid work and the needs of AI workloads change infrastructure requirements. The U.S. is the dominant market worldwide in terms of SD-networking innovation and adoption. Organizations in the U.S. increasingly require flexible networks that provide real-time access to applications and data across public, private and hybrid clouds while improving security and reducing costs.

“Enterprise networking is evolving from a supporting technology into a strategic business capability, especially in the U.S.,” said Leon Platts, partner and president, ISG Network and Software. “Organizations are adopting software-defined approaches to gain flexibility and prepare their infrastructure for future business needs without increasing complexity.”

As cloud adoption continues across the U.S., enterprises are implementing SD-networking to simplify connectivity among cloud environments and maintain consistent visibility over applications and data. Centralized, cloud-based management allows technical teams to configure and optimize networks more efficiently, reducing dependence on manual processes and physical infrastructure upgrades. SD-networking also lets companies maintain consistent network policies across all types of connectivity, improving business continuity.

Security modernization is becoming an equally important priority to protect increasingly distributed applications and users. Many organizations are adopting Security Service Edge and Secure Access Service Edge architectures that combine software-defined wide area networks (SD-WANs) with cloud-delivered security services. This integrated approach strengthens protection for enterprise data and applications while maintaining network performance. Many enterprises choose to implement SD-networking, integrated with these security architectures, as a managed or co-managed service to reduce operational burdens and costs.

“Many organizations are turning to managed and co-managed networking services as internal resources become harder to secure,” said Dr. Kenn Walters, lead author of the report. “Providers complement enterprise teams with specialized expertise while reducing operational demands.”

The report also explores other SD-networking trends in the U.S., including rising demand for SD-networking among small and midsize businesses and the growing importance of the technology to integrate new types of connectivity, such as enterprise 5G and satellites.

For more insights into the network-related challenges faced by enterprises in the U.S., along with ISG’s advice for addressing them, see the ISG Provider Lens Focal Points briefing here.

The report evaluates the capabilities of 37 providers across three quadrants: Managed SD-WAN Services, Edge Technologies and Services (including Private 5G) and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE).

It names Accenture, HCLTech, Orange Business and Verizon Business as Leaders in all three quadrants. Comcast Business, GTT, Kyndryl, Logicalis, Lumen Technologies, Microland and T-Mobile are named as Leaders in two quadrants each. Colt, NTT DATA, TCS and Wipro are named as Leaders in one quadrant each.

In addition, Colt, NTT DATA and Tech Mahindra are named as Rising Stars — companies with a “promising portfolio” and “high future potential” by ISG’s definition — in one quadrant each.

In the area of customer experience, Deutsche Telekom is named the global ISG CX Star Performer for 2026 among software-defined network service and solution providers. Deutsche Telekom earned the highest customer satisfaction scores in ISG's Voice of the Customer survey, part of the ISG Star of Excellence™ program, the premier quality recognition for the technology and business services industry.

The 2026 ISG Provider Lens Network — Software-Defined Solutions and Services report for the U.S. is available to subscribers or for one-time purchase on this webpage.

About ISG

ISG (Nasdaq: III) is a global AI-centered technology research and advisory firm. A trusted partner to more than 900 clients, including 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is a long-time leader in technology and business services that is now at the forefront of leveraging AI to help organizations achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm, founded in 2006, is known for its proprietary market data and research, in-depth knowledge and governance of provider ecosystems, and the expertise of its 1,500 professionals worldwide working together to help clients maximize the value of their technology investments.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260721873669/en/

Press Contacts:

Laura Hupprich, ISG
+1 203-517-3132
laura.hupprich@isg-one.com

Erik Arvidson, Matter Communications for ISG
+1 978-518-4542
isg@matternow.com

Source: Information Services Group, Inc.