Magic Quadrant for Global WAN Services
Gartner defines global WAN services as POP-based services supporting multiregional corporate networks. These services address enterprise challenges such as hybrid working practices, accelerating digital and cloud transformations and improving enterprise network agility. Providers own and operate their own global core networks and sell directly to the client. Services include transport-centric/unmanaged, managed, co-managed network services, or network as a service via a monthly fixed or usage-based fee model. Core transport services are often complemented by ancillary services like carrier-based cloud interconnect, SD-WAN, SASE or managed services. Services are measurable and consumable through web-based customer interfaces via portals and programmable APIs.
Vendors must, among other requirements:
A: This research evaluates global WAN service providers based on their ability to deliver comprehensive network services portfolios including MPLS, internet services (DIA and broadband), managed SD-WAN, SASE, carrier-based cloud interconnect, and network virtualization capabilities. The evaluation covers providers' network infrastructure, geographic coverage across North America, Europe, Asia/Pacific and other regions, service quality, SLAs, customer portals and APIs, pricing, sales execution, innovation roadmaps, and customer experience. The report includes analysis of 9 vendors positioned across the Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries, and Niche Players quadrants.
A: Infrastructure and Operations (I&O) leaders responsible for enterprise WAN strategy and vendor selection should use this research to: (1) Evaluate and compare global WAN service providers based on their execution capabilities and strategic vision, (2) Identify providers best suited for their organization's specific requirements in terms of geographic coverage, service breadth, technology innovation, and vertical industry focus, (3) Understand market trends including the shift toward SD-WAN, SASE, cloud connectivity, and network automation, (4) Assess provider strengths and cautions to inform RFP processes and contract negotiations, (5) Develop sourcing strategies that balance single-vendor vs. multi-vendor approaches across regions, and (6) Make informed decisions about managed vs. co-managed service models and traditional vs. emerging network architectures.
A: Vendors must offer: (1) Global internet services including DIA and broadband/DSL with provider-owned POPs; (2) Global MPLS services with provider-owned network equipment and POPs; (3) WAN services portals and APIs for network status and performance visibility; (4) Carrier-based cloud interconnect (CBCI) to major cloud providers globally; (5) Managed SD-WAN services with network-based gateways and security capabilities as part of SASE adoption; (6) Global coverage in North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific at minimum with services generally available, not one-off or limited to specific countries.
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A: Ability to Execute evaluates current operational performance including product breadth, quality, delivery capabilities, sales effectiveness, customer experience, and operational efficiency. It measures how well vendors perform today in executing their services and meeting customer needs. Completeness of Vision assesses strategic direction and future plans, including market understanding, innovation roadmap, product strategy, geographic expansion plans, and ability to influence market direction. It measures the vendor's forward-looking vision and strategic positioning for future market leadership.