A rising number of businesses across Asia Pacific are turning to software-defined networking (SDN) to enhance operational flexibility, cut costs, and support cloud-driven digital strategies, according to a newly released study from Information Services Group (ISG), a global technology research and advisory organization.
The 2025 ISG Provider Lens® Network — Software-Defined Solutions and Services report highlights that organizations in the region are under increasing pressure from ongoing labor shortages, inflation, and global uncertainty—challenges that demand faster network responses and more agile infrastructure. This has made SDN, especially software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN), a top priority for many enterprises in emerging economies like India and Southeast Asia.
“As workloads increasingly shift to public and private cloud environments, we see a continued acceleration in digital transformation across the region,” said Michael Gale, ISG Partner and Regional Leader for Asia Pacific. “This move to software-defined networking is a critical step toward greater automation and, eventually, fully autonomous networks.”
To meet growing demand, businesses are investing in new networking equipment, cloud services, and management platforms. The rapid deployment of artificial intelligence is also influencing network design, with firms prioritizing high-speed, low-latency infrastructure to support AI workloads. Automated systems using machine learning are becoming essential in SDN environments, minimizing human error and reducing the need for manual oversight.
The shift to remote and hybrid work models, along with broader supply chain strategies, is driving additional demand for SDN solutions. These networks support seamless collaboration and secure access to cloud-based applications—key for enhancing productivity and encouraging innovation. As companies expand operations across India and Southeast Asia, flexible and scalable infrastructure is increasingly critical.
Network protection remains a top concern. A recent ISG study found that 75% of global firms operating in Asia Pacific cited security as their leading network infrastructure challenge. As a result, many large organizations are deploying SD-WAN as part of a broader secure access service edge (SASE) strategy. This approach combines networking and cybersecurity in a single framework, often delivered through fully managed services.
“Securing data and ensuring reliable access across multi-cloud environments is a priority,” said Yash Jethani, Principal Analyst at ISG and lead author of the report. “To meet these goals, businesses are increasingly relying on partners with deep knowledge in cloud architecture, AI, and modern networking.”
The report also notes increasing SDN adoption among small and mid-sized firms and growing reliance on 5G infrastructure across Asia Pacific. Together, these developments are laying the groundwork for more connected, resilient, and efficient digital ecosystems.
The 2025 ISG Provider Lens® report evaluated 46 technology service providers across Asia Pacific, focusing on their capabilities in four strategic networking areas. These include Managed SD-WAN Services, which offer organizations scalable, centrally controlled network infrastructure, and Network Transformation Services, covering consulting and implementation for businesses modernizing their network environments.
The report also assessed providers in Edge Technologies and Services, which encompass next-generation solutions like Private 5G that bring compute power closer to data sources, and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), a fast-growing area that combines network security with cloud-delivered infrastructure. Together, these categories reflect the region’s push toward agile, secure, and future-ready connectivity solutions.
Top-rated firms in all four categories include Accenture, Kyndryl, NTT DATA, Orange Business, Singtel, Telstra, and Verizon Business. BT ranked as a leader in three quadrants, while Tata Communications was recognized in two. Single-quadrant leaders included Capgemini, Fujitsu, Korea Telecom, SK Telecom, and Vodafone.
Companies such as GTT, TCS, Tech Mahindra, and Wipro were highlighted as Rising Stars, recognized for strong capabilities and growth potential. In customer satisfaction, HCLTech earned distinction as the ISG CX Star Performer for 2025, receiving the highest ratings in the ISG Voice of the Customer survey under the Star of Excellence™ program. The full 2025 ISG Provider Lens® Network — Software-Defined Solutions and Services report for Asia Pacific is available to subscribers or for individual purchase online.
ISG’s Provider Lens® series is a comprehensive evaluation tool combining data-based research with real-world insights from its global team of consultants. These reports guide businesses in selecting service providers across multiple global markets, helping them optimize sourcing decisions and accelerate digital outcomes.
Founded in 2006, ISG is a global technology advisory firm that serves more than 900 clients, including 75 of the world’s largest enterprises. With deep expertise in AI, cloud, and enterprise tech, ISG supports organizations worldwide in achieving transformation and long-term value.
