NETWORK AS A SERVICE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: In an era of heightened connectivity, network as a service offers the potential to enhance the daily user experience.

Network as a Service

• About: NaaS is a cloud service model where customers lease networking services from a cloud provider instead of managing their own network infrastructure.
• Infrastructure: Similar to other cloud services, NaaS operates networking functions via software, eliminating the need for physical hardware, as long as there's internet connectivity.
• Flexibility and Scalability: NaaS offers organizations flexibility by allowing them to adjust network resources according to their needs, making it both scalable and cost-effective.
• Replacement: NaaS can supplant traditional networking systems like VPNs and MPLS, offering greater agility and ease of management.
• Features:

o By adopting NaaS, users can delegate network management to the provider, who often offers integrated security services, reducing the need for on-premise security appliances.

o NaaS providers typically offer a range of service models, including managed services, rented hardware, and full NaaS, catering to diverse customer needs and preferences.