Tech Mahindra, Fortinet launch unified managed SASE
Tech Mahindra has partnered with cybersecurity firm Fortinet on a managed Secure Access Service Edge offering for companies running hybrid networks across cloud and on-premises environments.
The partnership combines Tech Mahindra's network and security services with Fortinet's Unified SASE product line. The managed service focuses on secure connectivity, centralised policy controls and monitoring delivered through security operations centres.
Secure Access Service Edge, commonly shortened to SASE, has become a focal point for organisations looking to consolidate network connectivity and security enforcement. It typically combines software-defined wide area networking with security controls that sit closer to users and cloud applications than traditional perimeter-based designs.
What is included
The managed service includes secure SD-WAN, Zero Trust Network Access and threat protection under a single architecture, designed for cloud, software-as-a-service and on-premises deployments.
Operations are a significant part of the offer, with 24×7 security operations centre coverage and proactive threat hunting. The service also uses AI-driven intelligence.
Abhishek Malhotra, Global Business Head - Network Services at Tech Mahindra, said the partnership targets complexity in modern enterprise networks.
"As enterprises accelerate cloud adoption and embrace hybrid work, the burden of fragmented network architecture and operational complexity has become a critical hurdle. Through our partnership with Fortinet, Tech Mahindra is addressing this challenge by delivering a unified Managed Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution. It integrates secure connectivity, zero-trust network access and advanced protection into a single, scalable framework, empowering organizations to modernize their networks and drive business agility with confidence."
Cost and connectivity
Both companies also point to potential cost benefits. They say the service can reduce dependence on Multiprotocol Label Switching networks, which many large organisations use for private connectivity between sites, and lower total cost of ownership.
The service is designed to scale across branch offices, edge locations and remote workers. It also aims to deliver a consistent user experience and centralised policy management to simplify operations while maintaining security controls.
From Fortinet's perspective, the offering aligns with demand to consolidate network and security stacks. Landon Scott, Vice President, U.S. Channel Sales at Fortinet, said customers want simpler infrastructure and lower running costs.
"Enterprises are looking to simplify infrastructure, lower operational costs, and securely support hybrid work. Our partnership with Tech Mahindra delivers a managed Unified SASE solution that replaces fragmented architectures with integrated networking and security, helping customers achieve significant efficiency gains while strengthening their security posture," said Scott.
Services focus
Managed network and security services have become a competitive battleground among consultancies, telecoms operators and specialist managed security providers. Demand is growing as enterprises face skills shortages in cybersecurity and network operations, while also managing broader access patterns driven by cloud migration and hybrid work.
For Tech Mahindra, the partnership adds a named security technology partner to its service-led approach and strengthens its end-to-end Managed Network Services offering for global customers.
Fortinet, which sells network security appliances and cloud-delivered security services, has promoted convergence between networking and security in its product strategy. Partner-led delivery is a common route for security vendors seeking customers that want an outsourced operational layer rather than standalone tools.
Tech Mahindra describes itself as a technology consulting and digital solutions provider operating across network services, cloud and infrastructure, and AI and analytics. It says it has more than 149,000 professionals across more than 90 countries and serves more than 1,100 clients.
The managed service will target enterprises globally, with a focus on network modernisation, security posture improvements and cost optimisation in hybrid environments.