SD-WAN and secure access service edge (SASE) vendor Adaptiv Networks announced a strategic partnership with Canadian telecom operator National Wireless.

As part of the deal, Adaptiv will integrate its SD-WAN connectivity and cloud-based SASE solutions into the operator’s Business Internet portfolio. Both parties emphasized the deal’s importance in providing cloud-based networking security to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The Quebec, Canada-headquartered Adaptiv positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to Cato Networks, targeting the SME space covered in the National Wireless deal.

The partnership builds on Adaptiv's previous North American telecom deals this year with New Jersey’s BCN and the Edmonton–based Sunco.

“By integrating SD-WAN and SASE solutions, we’re equipping our customers with unbreakable connectivity, superior cloud performance, and advanced cybersecurity that’s simple to deploy and manage,” National Wireless President Dan Baker explained in a statement.

SASE, SD-WAN in telecom space

Analysys Mason research has noted that “SASE has become an important part of many new partnerships between telecom operators and SD-WAN vendors or security vendors.”

Dell’Oro Group reported recently that global SASE revenues increased 17% year-over-year during Q1, hitting total sales of $2.6 billion for the quarter. The growth is feeding what the analyst firm had previously predicted would be a $17 billion market by 2029.

Cisco and Palo Alto Networks were highlighted by the research group as leading the single-vendor surge in SASE.

T-Mobile US partnered with Palo Alto Networks this year to expand the security optionality of its managed SASE enterprise product, broadening the presence of SD-WAN and SASE in the telecom market.

Palo Alto’s SASE underpinned deals with operators including AT&T, GTT Communications (GTT), Singtel, Orange, BT, and Verizon.

SASE services from Fortinet meanwhile have been tapped by GTT, Deutsche Telekom, and Spain’s Telefónica, with the latter also calling on Cisco for its network security provisions.