SD‑WAN Vendors & Managed Service Providers (UK) - 2025 Comparison Matrix & Shortlist

BT - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

BT’s SD-WAN portfolio has been recognised by Vertical Systems Group. In the 2022 Global Provider Carrier Managed SD-WAN Leaderboard, BT Global Services climbed to fourth place, behind AT&T, Orange Business and Verizon. This ranking highlights BT’s strong share of global SD-WAN sites and its ability to support multinational customers. Source

BT partners with several SD-WAN technology vendors - Cisco Catalyst, Cisco Meraki, Nuage Networks VNS (Nokia), Palo Alto Prisma, Fortinet and VMware VeloCloud - allowing customers to choose the platform that best fits their requirements. These solutions come with integrated security, including next-generation firewalls, zero-trust network access, secure web gateways and cloud-access security broker functionality, so that traffic can be inspected and protected at the branch.

For businesses using cloud services, BT provides direct connectivity to AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud and supports multi-cloud architectures. The SD-WAN platform improves cost efficiency by reducing reliance on MPLS, enabling zero-touch deployment, and optimising application performance across diverse underlay connections. It also supports 4G/5G and LTE for branch or mobile connectivity, adding resilience and flexibility for remote sites and field workers.

Customers can choose from on-premises, hybrid or fully cloud-based deployment models, which makes it easy to align the WAN design with legacy systems or a cloud-first strategy. BT backs its service with strong service-level agreements - for example, its BTnet leased-line SLA targets 100% availability, with financial compensation if this isn’t met. Support includes 24/7 helpdesks, dedicated account managers and online training resources. The solutions cater to a wide range of sectors, from finance and healthcare to retail, manufacturing, education, government, technology, transportation, energy and telecommunications, reflecting the versatility of BT’s managed SD-WAN offerings.

Case Studies

Jaguar Land Rover ▼

Jaguar Land Rover (manufacturing) - The UK car maker rolled out BT’s SD-WAN across 600 sites worldwide. This large-scale deployment cut WAN costs by about 50% and improved performance for cloud-hosted applications. By consolidating multiple connectivity types under a single SD-WAN overlay, Jaguar Land Rover gained faster access to cloud services and a simpler network to manage. Source

Boots ▼

Boots (pharmaceutical retail) - Boots, one of the UK’s largest pharmacy chains, adopted BT’s managed SD-WAN to support more than 800 pharmacies. The solution included embedded security features, enabling rapid deployment of new digital services (such as online ordering and prescription apps) while maintaining strong data protection. The unified SD-WAN platform improved network performance and customer satisfaction across Boots’ nationwide footprint. Source · Corroborating reference

Aryaka - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Aryaka’s SD-WAN is managed via its SmartManage platform, offering real-time visibility and centralised policy control. Supports broadband, MPLS, LTE and satellite connections with optimised traffic steering via Aryaka’s proprietary SmartConnect service, which dynamically selects paths using real-time monitoring and application-aware routing. Includes built-in security such as a Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), Secure Web Gateway (SWG) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), whilst also supporting multiple VPNs per WAN connection for data segregation. Provides QoS with dynamic bandwidth allocation and prioritisation, with WAN optimisation, application acceleration and deep packet inspection.

Designed for enterprises of all sizes, Aryaka’s SD-WAN can scale to support large global deployments, especially those operating in the China region. Supports zero-touch provisioning (ZTP) and integrations for existing MPLS and security environments. Direct cloud connectivity with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud is available via Aryaka’s private backbone, supporting multi-cloud use cases. Aryaka provides sub-second failover, multi-path redundancy and continuous link health monitoring. Reduces reliance on MPLS by leveraging low-cost broadband, while Aryaka’s private backbone ensures performance and predictable costs.

Offers AI-driven network insights, historical performance data and detailed application-level visibility. Provides REST APIs for automation and integrations with other systems and security platforms. Supports LTE and 5G for backup and primary connectivity in remote locations. Leverages AI-driven insights for routing, AI-automated policy adjustments and self-healing network capabilities to prevent downtime. Available as fully managed cloud-based SD-WAN, hybrid or on-premises solutions. Certified for ISO 27001, SOC 2 and GDPR compliance. Offers 24/7 global support, dedicated account managers and online training resources. Focuses on Finance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Education, Government, Technology, Transportation, Energy and Telecommunications markets.

Case Studies

Shipbroker ▼

Shipbroker (shipping brokerage) - The UK-headquartered global shipping broker migrated from MPLS to Aryaka’s SD-WAN, cutting WAN costs by about 55% and improving application performance. Source

Anite ▼

Anite (wireless test solutions) - UK-headquartered Anite reduced CIFS data usage by up to 76%, achieved 92% peak compression, and improved latency and stability across global offices after adopting Aryaka’s solution. Source

Fortinet - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Fortinet SD-WAN merges networking and security into a single operational model. UK teams that value consistency, compliance and faster deployment find this model appealing.

The core question is what matters more: consolidation or flexibility. If using one vendor simplifies your stack and your teams are aligned with that, Fortinet delivers. But if you need modularity or use bespoke tools, that choice may involve compromise.

This is not a question of capability. It is about architecture. Does your organisation need one system that works end to end? Or do you favour systems that fit together your way?

Case Studies

BT ▼

BT (managed SD-WAN) - BT’s managed SD-WAN service uses Fortinet at its core. Their teams can activate policies and deploy sites across the UK and Europe in hours. That speed helps them meet tight SLAs and audit cycles. Source · Source

Skyports ▼

Skyports (London-based) - Skyports, based in London, needed secure connectivity between sites from Europe to Asia. They use broadband, LTE and MPLS networks. Fortinet’s system gives them real-time path choice while making sure every packet is inspected. The outcome is faster traffic and tighter security with no local setup. Source · PDF

Cato Networks - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Cato Networks offers a fully cloud-native management application that provides real-time visibility, analytics and policy enforcement. It supports broadband, LTE, MPLS and satellite, using AI-driven analytics and continuous traffic monitoring to dynamically select the best path for applications, whilst multi-path capabilities ensure failover in the event of link downtime. Built-in security includes Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Advanced Threat Protection (ATP). Security is fully converged into the SD-WAN fabric, alongside support for multiple VPNs. Uses a range of QoS techniques, such as dynamic bandwidth allocation, application-aware routing, WAN optimisation and deep packet inspection, with significant benefits seen by cloud and SaaS applications.

Cloud-native architecture enables increased scalability compared to physical, with new sites added quickly through zero-touch provisioning and automated deployments, supporting both hybrid workforces and global operations. Provides direct cloud on-ramps to AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, amongst other major platforms, using a private backbone for optimised multi-cloud access. Offers sub-second failover with real-time link health monitoring and multi-path redundancy to provide high availability. Reduces reliance on expensive MPLS by leveraging low-cost broadband and consolidating security and networking functions into a single platform.

Provides AI-driven analytics delivering real-time network insights, historical trend analysis and detailed application-level visibility. Offers open APIs for automation and custom integrations. Fully supports LTE and 5G for primary or backup connectivity. Uses AI for predictive analytics, automated policy adjustments and self-healing capabilities. Offers cloud-native, hybrid and on-premises deployment models. Holds ISO 27001, SOC 2, PCI DSS and HIPAA certifications. Provides 24/7 support, dedicated account managers, online training and extensive documentation. Market focus includes Finance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Education, Government, Technology, Transportation, Energy and Telecommunications sectors.

Case Studies

Kensington Mortgages ▼

Kensington Mortgages (UK financial services) - Adopted Cato SASE Cloud to simplify network and security management across offices. Gained consistent policy enforcement and reduced reliance on legacy MPLS links. Source

DP World London Gateway ▼

DP World London Gateway (UK logistics) - Leveraged Cato Networks to securely connect distributed sites and provide direct, reliable access to cloud resources while improving security visibility and control. Source

Virgin Media O2 - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Virgin Media Business has partnered with Versa Networks, Fortinet and Cisco Meraki to deliver managed SD-WAN services. Their solutions include integrated security features such as stateful and next-generation firewalls, DNS filtering, URL filtering and antivirus protection. The platform also supports cloud and multi-cloud integration, offering seamless connectivity to major cloud providers including Azure and AWS. To improve cost efficiency, Virgin Media uses a hybrid network model that combines private and public networks, optimising connectivity while reducing reliance on expensive circuits.

The service supports LTE connectivity, adding redundancy and enabling both remote and mobile workforces. Deployment options include on-premises, hybrid and fully cloud-based models, giving organisations flexibility to align with their infrastructure strategy. Virgin Media provides service level agreements (SLAs) tailored to the infrastructure and needs of each company, ensuring guaranteed levels of performance and availability.

Support and training options include 24/7 monitoring and management, alongside access to consultants, engineers, project leaders and service managers. Virgin Media’s SD-WAN services are suited to a wide range of sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, education, government, technology, transportation, energy and telecommunications.

Case Studies

Norfolk Community Health & Care NHS Trust ▼

Norfolk Community Health & Care NHS Trust (public health) - The shift to a cloud-based SD-WAN approach meant a full digital transformation across the trust’s system and beyond, including a roll-out expansion to the integrated care system and more than 150 GP surgeries. With the support of Virgin Media Business, the cloud-based connectivity solution has delivered a tenfold improvement in network speed and resilience, with P1 outages reduced to just one a year and significant cost savings. Source [oai_citation:0‡Digital Health](https://www.digitalhealth.net/2024/10/norfolk-community-trust-makes-smooth-transition-to-the-cloud-with-virgin-media-o2-business/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Surrey & Sussex Police ▼

Surrey & Sussex Police (law enforcement) - Virgin Media Business deployed SD-WAN infrastructure across 106 sites and 176 circuits, enabling migration of many operational services to the cloud. The project delivered up to ten times greater bandwidth on its network and faster speeds, helping create a better everyday experience for officers, as well as built-in network resilience for this critical blue light service. Source [oai_citation:1‡virginmediabusiness.co.uk](https://www.virginmediabusiness.co.uk/customer-stories/surrey-and-sussex-police/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

GTT Communications - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Partnered SD-WAN Vendors - GTT Communications partners with Fortinet, HPE Aruba EdgeConnect and VMware VeloCloud. Integrated Security Features - GTT's SD-WAN integrates security measures such as unified firewall capabilities. Cloud and Multi-Cloud Integration - GTT's SD-WAN solution supports integration with leading cloud platforms such as Azure, AWS and Google Cloud.

Cost Efficiency - GTT's SD-WAN leverages broadband, VPN and MPLS, to optimise connectivity and scalability, reducing reliance on expensive MPLS circuits and simplifying infrastructure requirements. Support for Cellular Connectivity - GTT Communications' managed SD-WAN services support both LTE and 5G connectivity options. Deployment Models Supported - GTT offers flexible deployment options, including on-premises, hybrid and fully cloud-based SD-WAN solutions.

Performance Guarantees or SLAs - GTT provides 99.999% availability SLAs, with a ≤0.1% frame/packet loss ratio and frame jitter guaranteed to be ≤2ms. Support and Training Options - GTT offers ongoing local support from certified experts and basic strategic guidance for optimising SD-WAN deployment. Target-Market Customers - GTT's SD-WAN solutions are suitable for various sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, education, government, technology, transportation, energy and telecommunications.

Case Studies

Mitsubishi Electric UK ▼

Mitsubishi Electric UK (manufacturing) - GTT supported Mitsubishi Electric UK with the transition from MPLS WAN to SD-WAN, delivering a managed service including equipment, access sourcing, implementation and ongoing maintenance and management; improved control over bandwidth prioritisation and a better experience for Microsoft Office 365 were key outcomes. Source

HMY Group ▼

HMY Group (retail solutions) - Upgraded from MPLS to GTT Managed SD-WAN, doubling bandwidth and reducing network costs by 22%, boosting efficiency across the global network and supporting expansion into new countries. Source

Arista SD-WAN - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Centralised Cloud Management - Arista offers a centralised orchestrator that provides real-time visibility, policy management and configuration control across all sites. Support for Multiple Connection Types - Supports broadband, MPLS, LTE and satellite links; leverages dynamic multipath optimisation (DMPO) and real-time performance metrics to select between these links. Integrated Security Features - Integrates with Arista SASE for NGFW, ZTNA and secure web gateways; security is cloud-delivered, reducing local complexity; supports multiple VPNs per WAN link to improve traffic segmentation and resilience. Quality of Service (QoS) - Offers application-aware QoS with deep packet inspection, app-specific policies and real-time prioritisation for granular control across branches and cloud services.

Scalability and Flexibility - Scales from small branches to global enterprises; fast onboarding and multi-tenant support; zero-touch provisioning with central policy control and pre-configured edge devices. Cloud and Multi-Cloud Integration - Direct cloud on-ramps to AWS, Azure and Google Cloud, alongside integration with Arista Cloud and a private backbone for multi-cloud. Resilience and Failover Capabilities - Sub-second failover with link health monitoring and path conditioning. Cost Efficiency - Reduces reliance on MPLS by prioritising cheaper broadband connectivity.

Analytics and Reporting - Built-in analytics offer real-time and historical visibility, app-level insights and bandwidth usage metrics. Programmatic APIs - REST APIs for automation, orchestration and integration with third-party systems. Support for Cellular Connectivity - LTE/5G supported for primary or backup connectivity. AI Integrations - AI and machine learning used for anomaly detection, automated link remediation and policy optimisation. Deployment Models Supported - On-premises, hybrid and cloud-based models. Compliance and Regulatory Certifications - ISO 27001, SOC 2 and PCI DSS. Support and Training Options - 24/7 global support, customer success managers and online training via Arista Learning. Target-Market Customers - Focus on Finance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Education, Government, Technology, Transportation, Energy and Telecommunications markets.

Case Studies

Simply Business ▼

Simply Business (UK insurance) - Offices in London and Northampton replaced MPLS with Arista SD-WAN to support call centres and SaaS, gaining higher QoS and visibility with simpler change control. Source

Surrey & Sussex Police ▼

Surrey & Sussex Police (UK public safety) - Chose Arista SD-WAN to move to cloud and SaaS services with partners Breeze Networks and Softcat; improved connectivity and operational efficiency across the forces. Source · Source · eBook mention

Peplink - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Centralised Cloud Management - Peplink’s InControl 2 platform provides centralised SD-WAN management with real-time visibility, device control and automated reporting. InControl 2 also enables bulk configuration, remote troubleshooting and firmware updates for the entire network. Support for Multiple Connection Types - Supports broadband, LTE, 5G, MPLS and satellite connections with intelligent load balancing and failover. Uses SpeedFusion technology to aggregate multiple links. Integrated Security Features - Offers built-in Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), intrusion prevention and content filtering. Supports Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and integration with third-party security platforms, whilst also supporting multiple VPNs over a single WAN connection. Quality of Service (QoS) - Provides application-based QoS with dynamic bandwidth control measures, WAN smoothing and deep packet inspection (DPI) for core application performance.

Scalability and Flexibility - Supports deployments from small businesses to large enterprises with multi-site scalability and cloud integrations. Peplink’s API and InControl 2 also enable integrations with existing network infrastructure. Cloud and Multi-Cloud Integration - Direct integration with AWS, Azure, Google Cloud and private clouds via SpeedFusion Cloud. Resilience and Failover Capabilities - Offers hot failover using SpeedFusion, WAN smoothing and multi-WAN redundancy to ensure sub-second failover and uninterrupted connectivity. Cost Efficiency - Reduces reliance on expensive MPLS by leveraging low-cost broadband and cellular connectivity, whilst SpeedFusion optimises bandwidth usage.

Analytics and Reporting - InControl 2 provides real-time analytics, historical trend reports and AI-driven insights for proactive network management. Programmatic APIs - Offers open RESTful APIs for automation and third-party integrations. Support for Cellular Connectivity - Peplink provides LTE/5G connectivity with multi-carrier support and seamless failover. Ideal for mobile deployments, remote locations and edge connectivity for technologies such as IoT. AI Integrations - Uses AI-driven adaptive traffic management and AI for automated failover capabilities. Deployment Models Supported - Offers on-premises, cloud-based and hybrid SD-WAN deployments. Compliance and Regulatory Certifications - Holds ISO 27001, SOC 2 and PCI DSS certifications. Support and Training Options - Provides 24/7 global support, dedicated account managers, online training and documentation. Target-Market Customers - Targets Finance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Education, Government, Technology, Transportation, Energy and Telecommunications sectors.

Case Studies

NHS vaccination centres ▼

NHS vaccination centres (UK healthcare) - Worked with partners to enable rapid deployment of over 1,600 vaccination centres for the NHS using Peplink connectivity and management. Source · Newsroom

UK law enforcement video connectivity ▼

UK law enforcement video connectivity (public safety) - Mobile CCTV-equipped vehicles used Peplink-based SD-WAN to maintain resilient, on-the-move connectivity for operations. Source

Versa Networks - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Centralised Cloud Management - Versa offers a unified management platform, Versa Titan, providing real-time visibility, centralised policy enforcement, and AI-driven insights. Support for Multiple Connection Types - Supports broadband, MPLS, LTE/5G, and satellite; Versa’s AI-driven analytics optimise traffic paths dynamically, utilising real-time link monitoring and application-aware routing; also supports multiple VPNs on a single WAN link. Integrated Security Features - Offers built-in Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), Secure Web Gateway (SWG) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). Quality of Service (QoS) - Provides granular QoS policies with dynamic traffic prioritisation and both deep packet inspection and WAN optimisation techniques to help reduce latency.

Scalability and Flexibility - Supports enterprise-wide scalability, with easy expansion to new branches and hybrid workforces; offers zero-touch provisioning (ZTP) and automated deployments. Cloud and Multi-Cloud Integration - Provides direct cloud on-ramps to AWS, Azure and Google Cloud; Versa’s private backbone improves cloud performance. Resilience and Failover Capabilities - Sub-second failover with multi-path redundancy and real-time link health monitoring. Cost Efficiency - Reduces reliance on MPLS by leveraging broadband and LTE/5G; integrated security eliminates the need for separate firewalls and other security systems, lowering costs.

Analytics and Reporting - AI-driven analytics provide historical insights, real-time monitoring and application-level visibility to optimise network performance. Programmatic APIs - Versa offers APIs and SDKs, enabling automation and integration with third-party platforms for custom workflows. Support for Cellular Connectivity - Supports LTE and 5G for primary or backup connectivity. AI Integrations - Uses AI for predictive analytics, automated policy adjustments and self-healing capabilities. Deployment Models Supported - Supports on-premises, hybrid, and fully cloud-based SD-WAN deployments. Compliance and Regulatory Certifications - Certified for ISO 27001, SOC 2, PCI DSS, and HIPAA. Support and Training Options - Offers 24/7 support, dedicated account managers and online training. Target-Market Customers - Targets Finance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Education, Government, Technology, Transportation, Energy and Telecommunications.

Case Studies

TalkTalk Business ▼

TalkTalk Business (UK telecoms) - Selected Versa SD-WAN to deliver managed services across enterprise customers, providing enhanced security, performance and simplified network management. Source

HM Treasury ▼

HM Treasury (UK government) - Adopted Versa SD-WAN as part of a secure cloud-first strategy, improving application performance, centralised policy enforcement and reducing network complexity. Source

Palo Alto Networks - Managed SD-WAN

Overview

Centralised Cloud Management - Palo Alto’s Prisma SD-WAN offers centralised cloud-based management via the Prisma SD-WAN dashboard. Prisma provides real-time visibility, unified policy control and AI-driven insights to simplify operations and improve network performance. Support for Multiple Connection Types - Supports broadband, LTE, MPLS and satellite connections. Uses AI-powered path selection and real-time performance monitoring to optimise traffic routing dynamically, with sub-second failover and traffic steering based on real-time network conditions. Integrated Security Features - Offers built-in Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and threat protection, alongside deep packet inspection and segmentation. Quality of Service (QoS) - Offers dynamic QoS settings, application-aware prioritisation and automated bandwidth allocation to maintain low latency for critical applications. Utilises both policy-based routing and WAN optimisation to reduce latency and improve application performance.

Scalability and Flexibility - Scales from small branch offices to large global enterprises. Supports hybrid workforce needs with cloud-managed and on-premises deployment options. Offers zero-touch provisioning and automated deployments via Prisma SD-WAN, with integrations for existing infrastructure. Cloud and Multi-Cloud Integration - Direct cloud connections to AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and SaaS applications. Uses private backbone connectivity and intelligent traffic steering to enable multi-cloud performance. Resilience and Failover Capabilities - Provides sub-second failover, multi-path redundancy and AI-driven link monitoring. Cost Efficiency - Reduces reliance on expensive MPLS circuits by leveraging broadband and cloud-based security. Consolidates networking and security functions to lower operational costs.

Analytics and Reporting - AI-driven insights, real-time and historical analytics and visibility into application and network performance through Prisma SD-WAN’s analytics dashboard. Programmatic APIs - Open APIs enable automation, integration with IT service management tools and custom policy configurations. Support for Cellular Connectivity - Supports LTE and 5G for backup connectivity and primary WAN in remote locations. AI Integrations - Uses AI-powered analytics for predictive network optimisation, self-healing capabilities and automated policy tuning. Deployment Models Supported - Available as a fully cloud-managed, hybrid, or on-premises solution. Compliance and Regulatory Certifications - Certified for ISO 27001, SOC 2, PCI DSS and HIPAA. Support and Training Options - 24/7 customer support, dedicated account managers, online training resources and documentation for self-service learning. Target-Market Customers - Targets customers from Finance, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, Education, Government, Technology, Transportation, Energy and Telecommunications markets.

Case Studies

Salesforce ▼

Salesforce (global SaaS) - Improved network scalability and resilience for 70+ offices, with simplified deployment and management through centralised Prisma SD-WAN orchestration. Source

Westfield ▼

Westfield (retail) - Reduced network costs and gained single-pane-of-glass visibility using Prisma SASE with Prisma SD-WAN to scale bandwidth and improve customer experience at retail locations. Source