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SASE Meets ZTNA 2.0 and AI – The Next Evolution

technavadmin IT Security, SD-WAN , , ,
SASE Meets ZTNA 2.0 and AI – The Next Evolution

By John Wircher
Director of Client Engagement

Organizations are racing to modernize and secure their networks and workforces.  Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is an attractive framework for converging networking and security into a single solution.  But as threats evolve,,,,, so does SASE and it is not surprising that we’re now entering AI driven, identity centric SASE.  This is being referred to as “SASE 2.0.”

Past and even some present SASE deployments often meant blending SD-WAN and cloud security from multiple vendors. What we are seeing with suppliers is the next phase is all about AI and proactive continuous monitoring and response. AI and ML are becoming native to modern SASE platforms. This isn’t just about threat detection. We’re seeing SASE platforms that use AI to:

  • Predict and prevent breaches
  • Automate incident response 
  • Prioritize critical business traffic
  • Self-heal network performance issues

This is creating a shift from reactive management to proactive infrastructure.

Under the SASE 2.0 framework, legacy and static firewalls are no longer enough. SASE 2.0 uses real time identity, device posture, user behavior, and location data to make access decisions. This new thought process of context aware, Zero Trust approach ensures that access is dynamic and not a “one size fits all”.  

So, what’s the difference between ZTNA and ZTNA 2.0:

FeatureZTNA ZTNA 2.0
Access granularityPer applicationPer application + activity within apps
Trust evaluationAt loginContinuous and context-aware
Threat preventionMinimalBuilt-in and ongoing
Device context awarenessLimitedRequired and dynamic

The next evolution of SASE isn’t just about merging security and networking, it’s about making them intelligent, proactive and adaptive. Understanding where SASE is headed can help future proof your architecture. 

If you’re exploring how to adapt your architecture to meet the demands of SASE 2.0 and beyond, our team at Technology Navigation is here to help. We work closely with organizations to cut through the noise, evaluate the right-fit solutions, and build secure, future-ready infrastructures. Let’s talk about how you can take a smarter, more strategic approach to networking and security. Reach out to start the conversation.

Taming AI Chaos: The Power of Orchestration in a Siloed World

technavadmin AI Solutions , , , ,
Taming AI Chaos: The Power of Orchestration in a Siloed World

By Chris Newell
Founder & President

AI adoption is no longer just a talking point, it’s a necessity. But as organizations deploy AI tools across disparate departments and systems, a new layer of complexity has emerged… disconnected systems, siloed data, and overlapping workflows.  This is where AI Orchestration is becoming essential, bringing structure, coordination, and efficiency to increasingly fragmented environments.  

But equally important as AI Orchestration, is designing the orchestration with offramps for human intervention.  Not every process can… or quite frankly should be fully automated.  When the confidence level of an AI Orchestration driven action falls below a dictated threshold, systems must be able to pause and elevate the decision to a human and not hallucinate.  Organizations can either make this a steadfast rule of human intervention for that particular workflow or use this opportunity to “teach” the AI Orchestration solution to follow the elevated human decision going forward.  This ensures oversight, maintains accuracy, and preserves trust across critical workflows.

AI Orchestration is the coordination of multiple AI technologies, workflows, data sources, and applications to function across an organization with business outcomes in mind.  This orchestration helps each AI tool and process to work together, adapt to workflows, and drive ROI.  

Where traditional AI automation stops at the task level, AI Orchestration enables end-to-end process workflows and centers around business outcomes, unifying technologies like:

  • LLMs 
  • Email workflows and associated integrations
  • ML applications 
  • CRM applications (e.g., Salesforce and HubSpot)
  • UCaaS meeting transcriptions & voice recordings 
  • Data analytics (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Snowflake)
  • Marketing analytics (e.g., Salesforce Marketing Cloud, Oracle Marketing, Heap) 
  • Contact Center (CCaaS) analytics 
  • Accounting and finance applications (e.g., ADP, NetSuite)

Organizations often deploy AI tools in silos marketing uses one platform, finance another, and operations yet another. AI orchestration bridges these divides, creating workflows that span departments and their associated tools, reducing friction and increasing faster and more predictable outcomes.

While AI orchestration can automate and optimize complex processes, human judgment remains essential. 

AI doesn’t ALWAYS replace people, it enhances their ability to make faster, more informed decisions. It’s important to begin with a clearly defined baseline process, understanding that not all workflows will reach full automation. In fact, many may plateau at 30% automation, requiring human intervention for exceptions, strategy, or ethical oversight. True orchestration is about balancing intelligent automation with human insight.

Final Thoughts

AI Orchestration is more than a buzzword, it’s becoming the backbone of operational agility in modern enterprises. As organizations evolve, those that invest in orchestration will be best positioned to unlock the full potential of AI, reduce complexity, and deliver outcomes.

Ready to harness the full power of AI? Contact Technology Navigation today to explore how our experts can help you simplify, scale, and succeed with AI orchestration.

IT has enough on its plate. How does MetTel take the hassle out of MDaaS

technavadmin Wireless/Mobility , , , ,
Mobility services
Mobility services

By Chris Newell
Founder & President

Let’s be honest: no IT professional dreams of managing wireless and mobility solutions. No one wakes up thinking, “You know what I’d love to do today? Negotiate data plans, track down lost phones, and spend hours on hold with carrier support.”

Yet, IT teams everywhere are expected to handle these headaches while also cutting costs, securing devices, and somehow keeping up with Johnny from Sales, who just dropped his phone in an airport toilet… again.

At Technology Navigation, we constantly evaluate solutions that simplify IT operations and drive cost savings. That’s why we took a closer look at MetTel’s Mobile Device as a Service (MDaaS), and it’s a solid solution for businesses looking to take mobility management off their plate.

MDaaS is more than just pooling devices and data plans; it’s a fully managed, end-to-end solution that eliminates the complexity of dealing with multiple carriers and vendors while reducing costs. Here’s what stood out to us:

  • Cost optimization: Cross-carrier access and pooling ensure businesses only pay for what they need.
  • Device lifecycle management: From procurement to secure disposal, MetTel handles every stage.
  • 24/7/365 support: reliable customer service that keeps businesses connected.
  • AI-powered automation: 98% of orders are automated for faster, more efficient deployments.
  • Security & compliance: Mobile Device Management (MDM) and secure recycling protect enterprise data.

As a leading Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in the U.S., MetTel leverages partnerships with the nation’s largest carriers to provide carrier flexibility. Their recognition in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Managed Network Services, for the fifth year in a row,  further reinforces their leadership in the space.

And for those who like to sleep soundly knowing their old devices won’t become a security risk (or end up in a landfill), MetTel’s eco-friendly device recycling is a major plus.

If mobility management has become an unwanted side quest for your IT team, we’re here to help you explore whether MDaaS is the right fit. Contact us to learn more.

AI and Business: Embrace the Shift or Get Left Behind

technavadmin AI Solutions, General, Internet Services, Technology Navigation , , ,
AI and Business: Embrace the Shift or Get Left Behind

By Chris Newell
Founder & President

AI is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, transforming the way businesses operate, innovate, and compete. From automating repetitive tasks, onboarding and training employees, to enhancing decision-making with predictive analytics, AI is not just a futuristic concept, it is actively redefining industries in real time.

How is AI going to impact your business? This is the question on the minds of nearly every CIO, Director, Manager, and Frontline employee. Organizations are grappling with the reality that AI is not just an “efficiency tool” but a fundamental shift in how work is done. Companies that embrace AI strategically will gain a competitive edge, while those that resist may struggle to keep up.

The implications are massive and here are two takes!

Take #1: Mark Zuckerberg’s recent statement

“Meta will start automating the work of midlevel software engineers this year.” If one of the world’s largest tech companies is actively reshaping its workforce with AI, what does that mean for the broader business landscape? AI-powered automation is already impacting roles across industries, streamlining operations, and augmenting human capabilities.

Take #2: Ginni Rometty, former IBM CEO, put it best (which I agree with)

“Some people call this artificial intelligence, but the reality is this technology will enhance us. So instead of artificial intelligence, I think we’ll augment our intelligence.”  For example, Imagine a frontline employee who, from day one, has instant access to clear, step-by-step guidelines, which eliminates guesswork and accelerates productivity. AI isn’t replacing human capability; it’s amplifying it, making knowledge more accessible, digestible and working more efficient.

For businesses, the key questions are: How can AI enhance productivity, onboarding and reduce costs? Which roles will be transformed or eliminated? How can employees be reskilled to work alongside AI? Forward-thinking organizations are investing in AI solutions that not only drive efficiency but also create new opportunities for growth and innovation.

The future of business is AI-driven. The real question is: Are you ready?

Transforming IT: Building Resilient Networks for Business Continuity

technavadmin Data Connectivity , ,
Transforming IT: Building Resilient Networks for Business Continuity

In an era where digital transformation is essential for operational success, organizations must ensure their IT infrastructure is not only reliable but also scalable and cost-efficient. Businesses across industries face increasing demands for network resilience, secure communication, and remote workforce enablement. Whether it’s a growing enterprise, a distributed workforce, or a high-stakes environment, having a robust IT strategy is critical to maintaining seamless operations.

The Challenge: Achieving a Redundant, Reliable Network

One organization operating across multiple states faced a critical challenge: ensuring a highly redundant and reliable network while modernizing their communication systems and transitioning to a fully remote engagement center. The objective was to enhance uptime, reduce costs, and maintain security without disrupting essential services.

Our Approach to IT Optimization

At Technology Navigation, we take a strategic, results-driven approach to IT transformation. Here’s how we tackled this challenge:

1. Discovery & Needs Assessment: Conducted a comprehensive analysis to align IT solutions with key business objectives, focusing on uptime, cost efficiency, and remote workforce readiness.

2. Vendor Shortlisting & Selection: Leveraged our deep industry expertise to identify the best technology partners, saving valuable time and ensuring the selection of high-performing, cost-effective solutions.

3. Implementation & Optimization:

  • Resilient Network Infrastructure: Achieved 99.999% uptime while reducing costs by 40%.
  • Modern Voice System: Implemented an SIP-based communication network, lowering telecom expenses by 25%.
  • Remote Workforce Enablement: Successfully transitioned 100% of staff to remote operations while maintaining security and compliance.

Key Outcomes: Faster, Cost-Effective IT Transformation

Our strategic IT roadmap delivered measurable results:

  • Faster Deployment: Reduced project timelines by 17–42% compared to industry standards.
  • Significant Cost Savings:
    • 40% reduction in network expenses.
    • 25% savings on telecommunication costs.
  • Operational Excellence:
    • Seamless integration across multiple locations.
    • Uninterrupted service delivery despite external challenges.

Why Partner with Technology Navigation?

With a proven track record in IT strategy, infrastructure optimization, and digital transformation, Technology Navigation helps organizations build resilient, future-proof networks. Whether you need to enhance business continuity, streamline costs, or improve remote capabilities, our team ensures you achieve measurable results with minimal disruption.

Ready to optimize your IT infrastructure? Contact us today to explore customized solutions tailored to your business needs.