• BT has announced a new partnership with cybersecurity leader Fortinet to enhance its managed networking services with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) capabilities.
  • Fortinet’s SASE framework, which employs a zero-trust approach, dynamically enforces access policies based on user context—ensuring only authorized access to sensitive data and applications.

What happened

BT has teamed up with Fortinet to enhance its managed networking services with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) capabilities. The partnership aims to provide fast, secure access to cloud services, supporting distributed workforces and addressing cybersecurity threats. Building on its SD-WAN services, BT integrates Fortinet’s Secure Service Edge (SSE) technologies, including firewall-as-a-service, secure web gateway, cloud access security broker (CASB), and zero-trust network access.

This solution ensures strong connectivity and security for users, regardless of location, allowing businesses to adopt IoT, AI, and other connected technologies safely. With Gartner forecasting SASE market growth of 29% annually to reach $25 billion by 2027, BT’s new offering positions it as a key player in the space. This collaboration delivers a comprehensive solution for businesses to innovate securely in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Also read: SASE explained: Redefining network security and connectivity
Also read: What is network infrastructure security?

Why it is important

The partnership between BT and Fortinet is significant because it addresses the evolving needs of businesses in a world of remote and hybrid workforces. By combining BT’s SD-WAN services with Fortinet’s Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) technologies, the solution ensures that employees can securely access cloud-hosted applications and data from anywhere—whether working from home, the office, or on the go.As businesses increasingly rely on digital services and technologies like IoT and AI, security becomes a top priority. This collaboration integrates advanced security measures, including firewall-as-a-service, secure web gateway, cloud access security broker (CASB), and zero-trust network access, to protect against the growing volume of cyberattacks. The zero-trust approach ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive resources, enhancing overall security.

Additionally, with Gartner forecasting SASE market growth to $25 billion by 2027, the partnership positions BT as a key player in this fast-growing sector, offering businesses a scalable and secure solution for digital transformation.