Network as a Service (NaaS) takes network setup, upgrades, and maintenance and makes them simpler, often saving time and money. With the right setup, it can boost security, too. It’s the go-to for businesses looking to simplify operations without losing an ounce of performance.

Our post goes in-depth with NaaS, including:

• How it works
• Trends driving its early adoption
• Benefits, challenges, and solutions
• How to get your business started with NaaS
• Why Meter is the best all-in-one solution for your business

How Meter defines Network as a Service

What exactly is NaaS? At Meter, we define NaaS as one solution for your hardware, software, installation, and ongoing network management that is much more than just a subscription model. Meter’s NaaS package also covers network design for growth and reliable ongoing support.

NaaS provides the flexibility to scale network resources up or down based on demand. Providers like Meter offer tools and support for managing hardware, software, monitoring, and security, letting your IT team focus on what matters.

Traditional networking vs. NaaS for enterprises

Traditionally, businesses shell out big bucks for hardware and then dedicate a team to keep everything in check. That means hefty upfront costs, plus ongoing expenses for maintenance and upgrades.

NaaS rewrites the rules. Instead of buying and babysitting all that equipment, companies access managed network services on demand. This lets them skip the hardware investments and the upkeep while staying flexible as they grow.

The development of NaaS

NaaS got its start with the rise of cloud computing and virtualization. As businesses moved online, they needed networks that could scale up, stay flexible, and save money. Virtualization made it possible to create networks that change with the business, paving the way for simple, adaptable NaaS solutions that grow as you do.

The problems that Network as a Service solves

NaaS is a powerhouse solution for enterprise-level network challenges. Here are some of the biggest ongoing issues it helps tackle.

Hardware and maintenance costs

NaaS eliminates the costly cycle of constantly upgrading and fixing network equipment. Enterprises save on upfront costs and avoid the frustration of dealing with hardware that’s practically outdated the minute it’s set up. NaaS keeps your network running on modern infrastructure without the need to keep reinvesting.

Daily network management

Let’s be honest—network management isn’t the most thrilling part of IT. NaaS takes over the daily grind of enterprise network management, freeing up your IT team to focus on projects that drive real business value. Instead of constantly putting out network fires, your team can work on innovation and strategic planning.

Scaling without headaches

Growth is great—until your network can’t keep up. NaaS offers a flexible model that grows or shrinks as needed, so businesses can adjust network capacity without delays or huge costs. Enterprises can adapt fast to changes without the downtime that older setups would cause.

Security concerns

Enterprise networks face nonstop security threats, which can eat up time and resources. Meter’s NaaS includes smart monitoring features and regular updates—so your network stays in shape without extra hassle.

Adding Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) can give your network an extra layer of security that plays nice with NaaS. SASE mixes secure access controls with network optimization, giving users a safe, direct path to apps in the cloud, data centers, or even out on the edge.

Compliance and regulatory requirements

Following industry rules can be tricky, especially in fields like finance and healthcare that have strict data laws. Network as a Service providers like Meter help with compliance by managing data encryption, access controls, and audit trails. This takes a big load off your team and makes it simpler to stay up-to-date with changing regulations.

Complex integrations

Linking up systems across departments can make network management feel like a giant puzzle. NaaS makes it easier by offering support for compatibility and integration. With Meter’s NaaS, your network connects easily with other tools and software, so you don’t end up with messy, disconnected systems.

Uptime and reliability

Keeping networks steady is essential for business. Even small issues can hurt productivity and trust. NaaS boosts reliability with built-in backups, automated monitoring, and quick failover options. With Meter, companies enjoy a dependable network without having to manage these safety measures themselves.

Predictable costs for budgeting

NaaS makes it easier for large enterprises to keep network costs predictable and budget-friendly. Traditional networks come with surprise expenses for repairs, upgrades, or new equipment. With NaaS, companies pay a steady rate, so they can plan ahead and set aside funds for other priorities.

Trends driving NaaS adoption

The demand for NaaS is rising as businesses seek scalable, secure, and adaptable networks. Here are the trends fueling this shift.

Increased digital transformation initiatives

As digital tools expand, NaaS keeps networks agile. Companies can scale up or down as they need, avoiding frequent network upgrades. NaaS supports data-heavy apps and remote work without adding extra maintenance.

Remote work demand

With remote work now the norm for many, networks need to handle connections from all sorts of places:

• Home offices
• Cafes
• Remote cabins
• Plenty of other places

NaaS steps in as a flexible option, offering secure, location-agnostic network access that keeps companies connected without big tech changes. Instead of IT teams juggling endless security updates, NaaS keeps the network protected and ready for wherever teams choose to log in. It’s a low-maintenance way to support the modern, distributed workforce and help everyone stay productive.

IoT expansion

IoT devices are everywhere—tracking products in factories, monitoring patients in healthcare, and more. Each one sends and receives a constant stream of data, which can quickly overwhelm networks. NaaS steps in with the flexibility to handle all this traffic, no network overhaul needed.

With NaaS, companies get the bandwidth and speed to process data in real time across all devices. It’s like adding extra lanes to a highway when traffic builds up, keeping everything moving without slowing down. It lets businesses focus on using IoT data instead of worrying if their network can handle it.

Cloud migration

Companies shifting to the cloud need networks that can handle it without extra stress. NaaS makes this easy, giving them cloud-friendly connections designed to fit right in. No need for constant adjustments. It's like a network that’s ready for the cloud from day one, so teams can avoid the fuss and get to what matters.

Edge computing

Edge computing processes data right at the source, reducing delays. NaaS supports this by managing local connections, making it great for real-time needs like:

• Inventory tracking in stores
• Healthcare monitoring
• Self-driving cars
• Smart city traffic control

Companies can add more edge capabilities without needing to overhaul their networks. NaaS keeps these systems running fast and reliably, even as demands grow.

Cybersecurity focus

Early adopters are jumping on NaaS because it takes a load off their security worries. NaaS includes powerful tools, which save companies from constantly patching and updating on their own like:

• Threat monitoring
• Encryption
• Automatic updates

NaaS is a great fit for industries like finance and healthcare, where enterprise-grade security is a top priority. It keeps their data safe without adding extra work for IT teams.

The challenges that NaaS can bring and their solutions

While NaaS offers plenty of perks, it’s not without its hurdles. Here’s a breakdown of common issues and what you can do to solve them.

Data security

Keeping data safe in the cloud is no small feat, especially with sensitive information on the line. A secure NaaS setup doesn't just lock the digital doors—it catches threats before they even knock.

Solid data security includes:

• Encryption like AES-256 acts as a first line of defense and scrambles data so it stays private.
• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) constantly watch network traffic and block anything suspicious before it causes trouble.
• Routine checks spot any weaknesses to keep the network up-to-date and in line with compliance needs.

Measures like these keep data protected without adding too much work to the team. As a result, the company is left to focus more on growth than on handling security concerns.

Network performance monitoring

Nothing slows things down like a poor network response. Keeping performance consistent can be tricky in a NaaS setup. This is even more evident in unpredictable network demand.

To stay on top of network demand:

• Use automated monitoring to track key metrics like latency and packet loss.
• Set up custom alerts to catch and respond to performance issues immediately.
• Conduct regular performance reviews to spot trends and adjust configurations as needed.

Now your business can keep network performance consistent, reduce disruptions, and make sure its NaaS investment pays off.

Avoiding vendor lock-in

Relying too heavily on a single NaaS provider can cause more issues than it solves. When business needs shift or a provider’s services no longer fit, you’ll wish you had chosen a more flexible option.

Here’s how to avoid putting all of your eggs into a single digital basket:

• Pick a Network as a Service provider that uses open standards, making it simpler to add new tools and systems in the future.
• Prepare a clear exit plan with steps for moving data and reviewing contracts to keep any future transitions straightforward.
• Spread network assets across various compatible services to stay flexible and avoid depending too heavily on one provider.

Remain flexible is the mantra to remember. Keep the power in your hands so that your business is able to adjust as it evolves.

Consistency and reliability

A reliable network is necessary to maintain smooth business operations. Even a short outage can throw workflows off balance and leave customers frustrated.

To keep your network reliable:

• Look for providers with clear standards for network performance and availability—no surprises when it comes to uptime.
• Include redundancy through backup connections and failover paths to cut the risk of disruptions.
• Perform regular systems backup tests to guarantee they’re ready when needed.

Each step helps keep the network resilient against unexpected interruptions.

How to get started with NaaS

Thinking about moving to managed network services with NaaS? You’re not alone! More businesses are discovering the benefits of NaaS, and it’s a smart move that can save time and resources. Follow these steps to get started.

Take stock of your network’s current state

Starting with NaaS works best when you know where things stand. Think of it as a network checkup that gives you a clear picture of what's working and what's not.

Look at:

• Speed
• Reliability
• Security
• Scalability

Are there any areas where your network lags behind or can't keep up with demand? Running a few tests on traffic flow and pinpointing where things slow down is a good start.

Pick a provider you can rely on

A reliable NaaS provider makes network management feel more doable—so you can leave the stress for something else. A few signs that a provider is worth considering?

Look for:

• Great reviews
• A history of dependable service
• Clear commitments to performance

Go beyond the marketing—find out if they deliver on their promises.

Checking for SLAs is wise, as they outline what you can expect in terms of uptime, support, and response times. SLAs help avoid surprises by setting firm performance standards.

Reliability counts, so don’t settle for the first option without a little digging. Comparing a few providers and, if possible, chatting with some current clients can provide valuable insight into what you’ll get from day one.

Create a transition plan

Switching to NaaS is a big step, so it’s smart to take things gradually. A phased transition helps ease everyone in and keeps your team from feeling overwhelmed.

Start by deciding which parts of the network should go first—often, non-critical parts are easier to test out before moving core functions. Set realistic timelines for each phase and keep backup plans in place, just in case.

It’s like plotting out a road trip: You’ve got your main stops, but you also want a few rest areas if something unexpected pops up. Clear milestones and steps keep everyone on track, making the move to NaaS feel manageable instead of a complete upheaval.

Monitor and optimize as you go

Once the NaaS setup is live, monitoring becomes your best friend. Tools that track network health help you keep tabs on uptime, speed, and any unusual security activity. These insights let you catch minor issues before they turn into major ones.

Routine check-ins allow you to see if the NaaS solution is adapting well to changing needs. As business demands shift, these reviews make sure the network keeps pace, and they also give you a chance to tweak settings for improved performance.

Ensure compatibility with existing systems

One of the big wins with NaaS is how it fits right into your current network setup. Still, it’s smart to make sure everything plays nicely together.

Verify that the NaaS solution connects easily with existing applications, databases, and any in-house tools. Good integration keeps performance steady and avoids those frustrating moments that come from systems not talking to each other.

Look out for any small quirks during setup—sometimes even the best tools need a few adjustments. Taking the time to iron out these details means a smooth experience for your team and fewer calls to IT.

Train your team for effective use

A network’s value comes from the people who use it well, so get your team up to speed. Begin with a few hands-on sessions where team members can get comfortable navigating the system, using dashboards, and handling any monitoring tools. Showing them what to look for in terms of early warning signs—like unusual spikes in network activity—can make a huge difference in day-to-day operations.

Training doesn’t have to be dry. You can mix in some real-life scenarios or even a few “what-not-to-do” moments to keep things engaging and memorable. When your team feels confident using NaaS, they’ll be quicker to handle minor issues on their own and much more likely to take full advantage of the system’s capabilities.

Training should involve:

• Understanding how NaaS adapts to changing needs without big hardware upgrades
• Knowing how to monitor and interpret performance data to spot issues early
• Learning the basics of network security features like encryption and access control
• Familiarizing with the NaaS provider’s dashboard and tools for real-time insights
• Being ready to scale services up or down as the organization’s needs change

Set up security protocols

You can’t afford to cut corners with network security—especially in a cloud environment. Firewalls, access controls, and encryption are essential defenses.

Follow these steps:

• Set up firewalls to filter incoming traffic and block unwanted data
• Use access controls to limit network areas to authorized users only
• Encrypt data in transit and at rest to protect it from unauthorized access
• Schedule regular updates for security protocols to keep up with new threats
• Perform periodic security check-ups to catch and fix potential vulnerabilities

These steps create a strong security foundation. But don’t stop there! Treat your security setup like a plant—water it with routine updates and checkups to keep it growing strong.

Check for compliance with industry regulations

Staying compliant with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA is non-negotiable. Working with a NaaS provider means checking that their practices align with these legal standards. Ask for documentation that proves their security methods meet regulatory requirements, which includes:

• Data protection
• User privacy
• Secure handling protocols

Regular audits are helpful too. They verify ongoing compliance and make sure the network adapts to any new regulations. It’s wise to have a set schedule for these checks to avoid surprises and stay on the right side of the law.

Plan for future growth

A big perk of NaaS is how easily it grows with you, so it’s worth planning for. Look for a provider who can expand services as your needs evolve—whether you’re adding more bandwidth, users, or even locations.

Thinking ahead with NaaS means you avoid constant overhauls, saving time and avoiding the trouble of re-evaluating your network setup year after year. Scalability is the long-term investment here, giving you room to grow without disrupting the network.

Track performance with clear benchmarks

Setting benchmarks allows you to track metrics such as uptime, response time, and user feedback. Doing so will give a clear view of how well the network supports your goals. Check-ins with set intervals will keep you tuned in to the network’s performance. You’ll be able to see if your network is hitting targets or needs a few tweaks.

Measuring success with benchmarks also helps justify your investment. You can see the network’s impact on operations, whether it’s reducing downtime, speeding up processes, or just making life easier for the team.

Or, you can just let Meter handle it all.

How Meter’s NaaS works

Meter’s NaaS is designed to make network setup and management a whole lot simpler. It breaks down the process into clear steps that guide businesses from planning to ongoing support. Each step is designed to save your team time and effort, making it simpler to create a strong network.

Before Installation

Before anything gets installed, Meter works with your team to understand what your network needs. We figure out what your current setup looks like and what problems you're facing. This helps us create a tailored plan that covers everything from where to put access points to how to connect your software. The purpose is to make sure the network can grow with your business.

During Installation

When it’s time to install, we at Meter handle it all. Our team takes care of the hardware setup—routers, switches, and more—so your crew can focus on what they do best. After everything is in place, we check that all connections are solid and verify that security measures are functioning properly.

When your team starts using the network, it's ready for action, allowing you to dive right into your work without complication. We believe in making things simple so you can enjoy the benefits without the challenges.

After Installation

Once the network is up and running, Meter provides ongoing support to keep everything in top shape. Our automated tools continuously monitor the network to catch any issues before they snowball into major problems. If something does go awry, we’re on it quickly, ensuring that fixes happen before they disrupt your operations.

What sets Meter apart from other Network as a Service providers?

Meter’s NaaS shines with a complete, end-to-end enterprise network management model designed for flexibility and ease. From setup to daily management, we handle every aspect, allowing businesses to tap into secure, high-performance networks without burdening their IT teams.

Many providers offer similar services, but Meter adds value with tailored NaaS solutions, dedicated support, and a proactive approach to monitoring. Our goal is to free your IT staff to focus on strategic projects instead of getting bogged down with network issues.

Here’s what makes Meter stand out:

• Complete package: We cover everything from custom hardware—like access points and switches—to software and network management.
• Adaptability: Our services scale with your business needs, offering flexible network capacity and technology that keeps pace with change.
• Enterprise-grade security: Strong encryption, intrusion detection, and regular audits keep your network safe and sound.
• User-friendly dashboard: The Meter dashboard simplifies management with real-time monitoring and easy configurations.
• End-to-end support: From initial network design to ongoing maintenance, we handle all aspects, giving your team more time for what really matters.
• Future-proof technology: Our setup is ready for the future, with easy integrations for new devices and apps so you stay ready for what’s next.

Ready to see the difference? Try out Meter’s NaaS with our trial program and experience how we can support your business.