Here are 2023's trendiest edge computing platforms for solution providers to watch for

Edge computing has grown in popularity in recent years as developments such as remote work, the Internet of Things (IoT), and augmented reality (AR/VR) have increased the requirement for connectivity at the network's edge and the development of new applications. Edge deployments are now almost everywhere and meet a wide range of use cases across multiple verticals. Moreover, research firm International Data Corporation (IDC) projects that global enterprise and service provider spending on hardware, software, and services for edge solutions will continue to expand at a rapid pace through 2025, reaching about $274 billion. From private 5G, SASE, and IoT upstarts staking out their own edge niches to networking incumbents stepping into the game, here are 5 of the trendiest edge computing businesses software solutions we should keep an eye on this year.

Aarna Networks, which was formed in 2018, is on a mission to ease enterprise edge orchestration with private 5G and enterprise edge computing application automation software. Aarna Edge Services, the company's SaaS platform, offers zero-touch orchestration for edge infrastructure and public clouds. Aarna Edge Services provides computation, storage, and network connectivity from the edge to the cloud. The major method of distribution for the San Jose, California-based firm is through channel partners. Aarna has raised a total of $3.5 million in investment, with the most recent funding coming in December 2021 from a seed round.

Adaptiv Networks, a supplier of smart corporate connectivity, has launched Adaptiv Enterprise Connect, a cloud-managed SD-WAN service. Enterprises may target new applications and users at the edge while delivering outstanding user experiences throughout all business cloud services and private corporate applications with this product. The private equity firm Quebec-based company, founded in 2002, focuses its solutions on a few verticals, including hospitality, healthcare, and retail. To bring its network as a service and co-managed cloud solutions to market, Adaptiv is relying on channel partners.

Aruba Networks, a subsidiary of HPE, is a prominent player in edge networking hardware, software, and services. The company introduces its Aruba Edge Services Platform (ESP), which enables businesses to accelerate digital transformation with automated network management, edge-to-cloud security, and predictive AI-powered insight. In addition to its 500/600 series Wi-Fi 6/6E access points, Aruba offers a broad array of CX switches, and customers like that these solutions can be controlled largely through its cloud-first, AI-powered administration platform, Aruba Central. Aruba's services are being deployed for a range of use cases with the support of partners, including at the network's edge and in places that are obtaining connectivity for the first time.

Cato Networks, a cloud networking service, specializes in SD-WAN and SASE. Cato's SD-WAN and cloud-native security service edge technologies have been combined to provide global cloud can services that enforce access controls, fight against security threats, and prevent sensitive data loss. According to the Tel Aviv, Israel-based company, the company, which does 100 percent of its business through channel partners, hired channel powerhouse Frank Rauch as its new global channel chief earlier this month to help partners profit from the enterprise shift to cloud-native networking and security.

Wireless start-up Celona broke onto the scene in 2020 with a platform that allows businesses to construct 5G/4G LTE private networks, filling a significant void in the connectivity market. Celona's cellular products will also be resold through a strategic agreement with Aruba Networks, according to the Cupertino, Calif.-based company. In September, the business announced a 5G LAN Device Certification Program to help with the deployment and uptake of private LTE/5G networks. Celona introduced a new solution provider partner program in June, shortly after hiring its first channel chief and finalizing its $60 million Series C fundraising round. According to Celona, the Fanatics program provides resellers, MSPs, and systems integrators with a formal means to communicate with and register private 5G and LTE deals.