Meta Networks Launches Channel Program to Drive NaaS Adoption

Meta Networks Ltd, a provider of a network-as-a-service (NaaS) offering that leverages data centers around the globe; this week launched a Meta NaaS Channel Partner Program.

The goal is to make it simpler for channel partners to deploy a zero-trust virtual private network (VPN) available that they or their end customer can manage via a console Meta Networks exposes as a cloud service, says Meta Networks CEO Etay Bogner.

Channel partners can either resell the service under the Meta Networks brand or deliver it as a white-label service they manage on behalf of their customers, says Bogner.

Meta Networks is essentially applying the same economic model that drives infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) to the network. Instead of having to build their own global network, Meta Networks developed a software-defined network (SDN) that it makes available in competition with traditional telecommunications carriers. Each customer is presented with their own isolated VPN running over a shared network underlay.

That network also makes extensive use of machine learning algorithms to provide a secure set of unified L2/L3 networking services, adds Bogner. Cybersecurity for the Meta NaaS is achieved using a combination of technologies from the Blue Coat Systems, an arm of Symantec, and Sygen, a provider of anti-malware software. Meta Networks also provides integration with the software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) platform developed by Talari Networks.

Elements of the three-tier channel partner program (Silver, Gold, and Platinum) include an indirect account management team to provide deployment and technical support. Additionally,  a dedicated services team to handles sales engineering questions and other pre- and post-sales enablement functions, incentive programs, and promotions, marketing, and public relations support and a 24x7x365 SLA-based support plan complete with first and second level support options.

Carriers to varying degree have been providing shared networking services for years. The Meta Networks approach differs in that it allows channel partners to deliver an on-demand VPN service at a lower cost that doesn’t require setting up a more complex network via channel relationship with a service provider they might also be competing against in the next deal they are involved in. In the case of many solution providers, that benefit alone is worth the price of admission.