Sponsored by TIA and produced in conjunction with IDC, this whitepaper examines the transformation taking place to Virtual Network Functions (NFVs) that is driving for convergence of network and IT functionality and enabling service providers to becomes ICT providers; all while addressing challenges to define API’s that support multi-vendor NFVs, measurable parameters to all layers and end-to-end services and embed security across all layers. Discussion points include securing the network, assuring quality of service, and maintaining a digital-ready workforce.