9. The Rise Of Network-as-a-Service

Simply selling connectivity or even one-off networking products has become a thing of the past for forward-thinking solution providers. VARs and network integrators will need to transform this year into strategic service providers: independent trusted technology consultants driving business outcomes with an emphasis on cloud and managed services delivered via a recurring revenue model. Networking vendors big and small -- from Cisco Meraki and HPE's Aruba Networks to Aerohive Networks -- are going to create more Network as-a-Service (NaaS)-type offerings for channel partners as their expertise and skillsets will be needed more than ever with the rise of IoT, cloud-based solutions and security threats.

With the ability to solve business outcomes through data analytics, better visibility and enhanced monitoring, NaaS will provide networking solution providers the ability this year to get closer to their customers and drive recurring revenue unlike ever before.