Navigating the Future: Insights from the 2025 SASE and SD-WAN AvidThink Report
In an era of cloud-first strategies, hybrid workforces, and an evolving cyber threat landscape, the 2025 SASE and SD-WAN Report from Research firm AvidThink provides essential guidance for enterprises and service providers navigating these complexities. Below, we unpack the top findings and actionable recommendations from this comprehensive report.
Five Key Findings: The SASE Landscape in 2025
- Market Momentum
The SASE market is projected to grow substantially, with estimates ranging between $16B and $25B by 2027-2028. This growth underscores its role as a critical enabler for secure, cloud-driven connectivity. - Zero Trust Becomes Table Stakes
Zero Trust and Zero Trust Network Access are surging as organizations prioritize identity-based access controls to protect against unauthorized access. - AI-Powered Security and Networking
Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving advancements in network performance and security, enabling smarter incident response, enhanced visibility, and dynamic application control. - Multi-Cloud Networking: The New Normal
As enterprises adopt multi-cloud environments, MCN solutions are evolving into a foundational component of SASE, ensuring seamless and secure connectivity across diverse platforms. - The Managed Services Opportunity
Providers offering managed services and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are uniquely positioned to capitalize on SASE’s growth by offering tailored solutions that combine connectivity with robust security capabilities.
Five Actionable Recommendations
- Prioritize Unified SASE Solutions
The complexity of fragmented tools calls for unified platforms that integrate SD-WAN, SSE, and ZTNA. Enterprises should look for solutions that provide seamless management and visibility. - Embrace AI to Enhance Security
AI capabilities should be leveraged for predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and policy enforcement. However, organizations must also prepare for AI-powered cyber threats by investing in advanced defense mechanisms. - Adopt Zero Trust Frameworks Strategically
Implement Zero Trust principles incrementally, focusing on areas of highest impact first. For example, prioritize identity-based access for sensitive applications and resources. - Expand Multi-Cloud Networking
Ensure your SASE strategy includes robust MCN capabilities to optimize performance and maintain security across cloud environments. - Leverage Managed Services
Consider managed SASE solutions to address talent shortages and reduce operational complexity. However, strong oversight must be maintained to ensure transparency and compliance.
One BIG Emerging Trend to Watch
The AvidThink report (click here to download the full version) points out a few trends, but I want to highlight one that stands out: AI and GenAI’s role in networking. AI is reshaping the Secure Connectivity ecosystem from predictive troubleshooting to enhanced data protection.
At Aryaka, we see our role as enabling companies to unlock, secure, and understand the usage and benefits of AI. You can read about our products and plans here, here and here and we will soon have more news to share.
The shift towards a Unified SASE-driven future represents a transformative opportunity for enterprises. By aligning with the report’s insights and recommendations, organizations can build resilient, agile, and secure networks capable of supporting modern business demands.
Ready to future-proof your secure networking strategy? Watch our three-part video series to learn more about the research report’s top findings, looking at the top IT complexities and challenges, navigating network and security challenges, and how Aryaka simplifies networking and security with Unified SASE as a Service.