Magic Quadrant for Managed Network Services
The managed network services (MNS) market focuses on externally provided, network operations center (NOC) functionality, as well as relevant network and security life cycle services that deliver current and emerging requirements to end users. Gartner defines the MNS market as globally capable providers of remote service management functions for the network and security operations of enterprise networks, including: Managed LAN services (MNS for LAN), Managed WAN services (MNS for WAN), and Managed security (MNS for security) functions.
Vendors must, among other requirements:
A: This research covers globally capable providers of managed network services (MNS) for enterprise networks, including managed LAN services, managed WAN services, and managed security services. It evaluates vendors on their service delivery platforms, automation capabilities, customer experience, pricing, and ability to support diverse network and security technologies. The research includes analysis of 18 vendors across the Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries, and Niche Players quadrants, with detailed strengths and cautions for each vendor.
A: This research should be used by Infrastructure and Operations (I&O) leaders responsible for network and security operations who are evaluating managed network service providers. It helps organizations balance expense optimization with service quality, identify AI/ML-enabled providers for improved automation, navigate vendor selection for LAN/WAN/security management needs, and understand market trends including SASE convergence, pricing dynamics, and automation capabilities. The research is particularly valuable for enterprises seeking to reduce operational complexity, improve service quality, and optimize costs through standardized managed services rather than custom IT outsourcing or DIY approaches.
A: Mandatory features for vendors in the MNS market include: (1) A service delivery platform (SDP) with integrated application architecture and enabling technologies for standardized, scalable delivery; (2) Service management covering the entirety of life cycle activities with tool-based workflows, automation and customer support mechanisms delivered by internal employees; and (3) Operations automation including automation of tasks and activities related to the SDP, service management functions, and customer experience management to achieve consistent service delivery quality.
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A: Ability to Execute evaluates vendors on the quality and efficacy of their processes, systems, methods and procedures that enable MNS providers' performance to be competitive, efficient and effective, and to positively affect revenue, retention and reputation. It focuses on current execution and operational capabilities. Completeness of Vision evaluates vendors on their ability to convincingly articulate logical statements about current and future market direction, innovation, customer needs and competitive forces, and how well they map to Gartner's view of the market. It focuses on strategic vision and future direction.