The Rise of Ethernet and Virtualization: A New Era in Networking

June 19, 2025, 11:52 am
Dell'Oro Group
Dell'Oro Group
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Location: United States, California, Redwood City
Employees: 11-50
Founded date: 1995
The networking landscape is shifting. Like a river carving its path through rock, change is constant. Recent reports from Dell’Oro Group highlight two key areas: Ethernet campus switches and virtual broadband network gateways (vBNGs). Both are poised for growth, driven by demand and innovation.

In the first quarter of 2025, Ethernet campus switch revenues rose by 3% year-over-year. This growth, however, comes with a caveat. A significant downturn in China has cast a shadow over global sales. The Chinese market, once a roaring engine, is now a cautionary tale.

North America, on the other hand, is thriving. Revenues surged by 12%. Enterprises are acting like savvy shoppers, pulling orders forward to dodge potential tariff hikes. This proactive approach is a smart move in uncertain economic waters. Companies are not just buying switches; they are investing in the future.

The transition to Wi-Fi 7 is a game changer. This new technology is like a turbocharger for networks. It demands more from the infrastructure. As enterprises upgrade, they will need switches with higher bandwidth and Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. The next two years will see a wave of switch renewals. The shift to Wi-Fi 7 is not just a trend; it’s a necessity.

Meanwhile, the vBNG market is on a rocket trajectory. Expected to grow at a staggering 31% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2030, this segment is transforming how broadband service providers operate. The move from hardware-based BNGs to virtualized, cloud-native architectures is akin to swapping a gas-guzzler for a sleek electric vehicle. It’s about efficiency and scalability.

Operators are eager to distribute subscriber and session management. They want to separate control and user plane functions. This shift is not just about technology; it’s about agility. The ability to scale services quickly is crucial in today’s fast-paced environment.

vBNGs offer flexibility and integrated features. They shorten development timelines for new capabilities. This is music to the ears of service providers. As they navigate the complexities of modern networks, these tools become indispensable.

By 2030, nearly half of all new BNG subscriber licenses will be on integrated edge router BNGs. This is a significant shift from the 94% peak in 2023. The landscape is evolving. The market is maturing. Revenue from subscriber licenses will dominate, but maintenance and support revenue will gradually increase. As features expand, so will the opportunities for service providers.

The Ethernet campus switch market and the vBNG sector are intertwined. Both are responding to the same forces: demand for speed, efficiency, and reliability. As enterprises and service providers adapt, they are laying the groundwork for a more connected future.

The challenges are real. The economic climate is uncertain. Geopolitical tensions loom large. Yet, within this chaos lies opportunity. Companies that embrace change will thrive. Those that cling to outdated models will be left behind.

Investments in infrastructure are not just about keeping pace; they are about leading the charge. The transition to Wi-Fi 7 and the rise of vBNGs are not isolated events. They are part of a larger narrative. A narrative that speaks to the heart of innovation.

As we look ahead, the importance of robust networking solutions cannot be overstated. The demand for bandwidth is relentless. Streaming, gaming, remote work—these are not passing fads. They are the new normal.

Ethernet switches and vBNGs are the backbone of this new reality. They enable seamless connectivity. They support the digital economy. As more devices come online, the need for reliable infrastructure will only grow.

In conclusion, the networking industry stands at a crossroads. The growth of Ethernet campus switches and vBNGs signals a shift towards a more dynamic and flexible future. Companies must adapt or risk obsolescence. The river of change flows ever onward, and those who navigate its currents will find success. The future is bright for those ready to embrace it.