In case you’ve been stuck in video conference meetings all day, here are today’s top stories from SDxCentral. Also, make sure to subscribe to our daily newsletters to get these stories in your inbox.

Pica8 Packs Network Control, Switch for 'Software Cisco' Goal

The vendor claims its new network controller and software switches provide alternatives to Cisco DNA Center and Catalyst switches. Read more.

VMware Exec: Open RAN ‘Trend Is Irreversible’

“This thing is going to happen, and we are going to help push it along and make it happen,” VMware SVP Sanjay Uppal said. Read more.

Telefónica Wraps Fortinet Into SASE Strategy

The telecom's latest managed service tackles hybrid work and cloud security through a combination of Fortinet's SD-WAN and secure access service edge products. Read more.

Deutsche Telekom Tests ONF’s Specialized Open RAN Framework

“The key differentiator from other supplier RICs is ONF’s open, vendor-neutral framework which is driven by operator use cases,” Deutsche Telekom SVP Alex Jinsung Choi said. Read more.

VMware Security Chief: There Is No Zero-Trust Pill

“Security is absolutely No. 1” in customer conversations, VMware SVP Tom Gillis said. “The No. 1 thing they want to hear about it: Is my workload secure?” Read more.

Alcatel-Lucent Taps Versa for SD-WAN, SASE Play

At the heart of the deal are Versa’s Titan SD-WAN and SASE platforms, which Alcatel-Lucent says will help it expand its network portfolio to mid-sized organizations. Read more.