Businesses of all shapes and sizes today are looking for flexible, scalable, and affordable networking solutions to keep up with the rapidly changing digital environment. Networking as a Service (NaaS) is emerging as a game-changer, offering businesses a flexible way to manage their networks without the complexities (and resource-drowning needs) of traditional infrastructure.

But what exactly is NaaS, and how does it compare to conventional networking?

Let’s dive in.

What is NaaS?

Networking as a Service (NaaS) is a cloud-based model that allows businesses to consume networking services on a subscription basis. Instead of purchasing and maintaining costly network hardware, organisations can leverage NaaS services to access networking infrastructure and services through a managed service provider like Blue Connections IT.

NaaS networking solutions such as HPE GreenLake for Networking delivers Wi-Fi, security, bandwidth management, and monitoring as a fully managed service. This means businesses can shift their networking costs from capital expenditures (CapEx) to operating expenditures (OpEx), aligning expenses with actual usage while reducing IT workload.

NaaS has been gaining traction worldwide as businesses seek more efficient ways to manage networking infrastructure. Companies like HPE Aruba Networking are taking it one step further, innovating the space by offering NaaS solutions that integrate Zero Trust Networking and automated lifecycle management.

Key differences from traditional networking

Many businesses are still reliant on traditional networking models that require purchasing, maintaining, and upgrading hardware like switches, routers, and firewalls.

Here’s how NaaS differs:
Feature Traditional networking Networking-as-a-Service (NaaS)
Infrastructure ownership Businesses own and manage physical hardware Service provider owns and maintains infrastructure
Cost model High upfront CapEx; unpredictable maintenance costs Subscription-based OpEx with predictable pricing
Scalability Hardware upgrades needed for expansion On-demand scalability via software and cloud services
Maintenance IT teams responsible for monitoring and updates Managed service provider handles all maintenance
Security Requires in-house security policies and tools Built-in security with continuous updates and compliance

By choosing a NaaS service such as HPE GreenLake for Networking through a managed service provider like Blue Connections IT, businesses can get the best of both words. A scalable, enterprise-grade network on demand plus all the networking expertise you need to get the most from your service. In turn, eliminating the headaches of network maintenance, security management, and infrastructure scalability, and allowing your IT team to focus on strategic initiatives.

7 key benefits of switching to NaaS

Here’s 7 reasons many businesses are making the NaaS switch

1

Cost-efficiency and flexible pricing

With NaaS, businesses avoid hefty upfront costs for network hardware. Instead, you pay only for what you use, reducing waste and aligning expenses with actual demand. This OpEx model enables better budgeting and cash flow management.

2

Seamless scalability

Expanding a traditional network often requires costly upgrades and long deployment cycles. With NaaS, businesses can scale up or down instantly based on their needs, making it ideal for organisations with fluctuating demand or multiple office locations.

3

Reduced IT workload

IT teams are already stretched thin managing multiple technology initiatives. NaaS outsources network management, freeing up IT professionals to focus on innovation, digital transformation, and core business goals. As services are provided through managed services providers like Blue Connections IT, you also get access to networking experts when you need them.

4

Enhanced security and compliance

Cyber threats are increasing, and maintaining network security is a challenge. HPE Aruba Networking NaaS services offer built-in security features such as Zero Trust Architecture, AI-driven threat detection, and advanced firewalls, ensuring data protection and regulatory compliance.

NaaS services also automate patches and updates, with all updates made through software. This ensures you have the latest security updates quickly.

5

Improved network performance and reliability

Traditional networks often suffer from downtime and performance bottlenecks due to outdated hardware. NaaS provides proactive monitoring, AI-powered automation, and real-time analytics, ensuring optimal network performance and uptime.

As an example, leading US home improvement retailer The Home Depot leveraged HPE GreenLake for Networking to enhance agility and flexibility across its over 2,300 U.S. stores. This implementation enabled advanced customer and associate experiences, streamlining operations and improving service delivery.

6

Faster deployment and time-to-market

Deploying traditional networks can take weeks or even months. With NaaS, businesses can get up and running quickly, as services are delivered via cloud-based solutions without the need for extensive on-site installations.

7

Sustainability and reduced environmental impact

By eliminating the need for frequent hardware replacements and excessive power consumption, NaaS helps businesses achieve sustainability goals. It also optimises energy usage, reducing carbon footprints in line with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitments.

Choosing NaaS partners such as HPE Aruba Networking and Blue Connections IT, you can also access leading lifecycle management and e-waste programs and enhanced ESG reporting.

Use cases for NaaS

While NaaS is being adopted by industries across the globe, here’s three very real applications we’re seeing for NaaS services.

  • Retail Retailers need high-performance networks to support point-of-sale systems, digital signage, and omnichannel experiences. NaaS ensures reliable connectivity and centralised network management across multiple locations.
  • Healthcare Hospitals and clinics require secure, high-speed networking for electronic health records (EHR), telehealth, and IoT medical devices. NaaS enhances network performance while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.
  • Manufacturing Factories rely on automation, IoT sensors, and AI-powered predictive maintenance. NaaS provides low-latency, secure networking to support smart manufacturing.

Is NaaS right for your business?

If your organisation is struggling with high networking costs, outdated infrastructure, or IT resource constraints, it may be time to explore Networking-as-a-Service. But how do you assess what’s right for your needs?

To help you navigate the NaaS space, we’ve created a simple application guide alongside networking expert HPE Aruba Networking.

Stay ahead of the curve with Blue Connections IT and HPE Aruba Networking – your trusted NaaS partners.