What Is Software-Defined Wide Area Network Technology (SD-WAN)?

A Gartner report indicated that 40% of infrastructure will utilize SD-WAN systems by the year 2018.

SD-WAN is an increasingly popular wide area network technology option. It provides numerous benefits and is easy to integrate into existing systems.

 The Transition from WAN to SD-WAN

Traditional WAN design is based on multiple devices stacked in the branch office with siloed management and various WAN links connecting them. With a bunch of single-function devices and appliances connecting via different WAN links, comes a complex infrastructure that is difficult for IT to manage. In addition, performance, particularly of cloud applications is unpredictable and costs are unnecessarily high.

That’s why businesses are turning to software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) alternatives.

An SD-WAN can combine network links into one easy-to-manage pool. It also makes it simpler to customize bandwidth to meet the business’s requirements and centrally manage and observe all data.

SD-WAN is also customizable based on where files are stored. It can be delivered only on the internet, with a mix of internet and MLP links, or on a global private cloud network. 

The SD-WAN maintains the benefits of a traditional WAN such as range and connectivity. It also increases efficiency and customizability, allowing for everything to be controlled and programmed by computers and easily monitored.

An SD-WAN is a WAN that is defined by business and IT policies through software. Traditional network operations have no visibility into the business, but an SD-WAN is tightly coupled to business operations through policies. The policies are then used to automate the configuration changes, optimize traffic flows or implement other changes to ensure the network is continually meeting the needs of the organization. 

Benefits

There are several benefits provided by an SD-WAN network that places it above alternative methods like traditional WANs. They relate to cost, security, performance, and adoption.

The main distinguishing factor between an SD-WAN and other wide area networks is its ability to be programmed. Users can determine how it works, allowing them to customize it to follow their unique policies.

The SD-WAN network also provides useful visual data. It allows for a consistent picture of all traffic, making suspicious or unnecessary activity easy to spot.

SD-WAN networks are easy to adopt and add to already existing systems. They simplify the process of adding connections and changing bandwidth, saving time and money.

There is also an increased level of security. An SD-WAN can encrypt all traffic and segment the network so that issues on one machine don’t spread to other devices. They also allow IT administrators to constantly view network traffic to look for any potential attacks or malware.

An SD-WAN network is a cost-effective option. It’s less expensive than traditional MLPS connections due to the internet links they use and a lack of backhaul penalties. They also save time and money due to their effective performance and ease of use and installation.

There are other reasons why you must consider SD-WAN services to run your business as efficiently as possible.

How to Choose the Best Network

It’s essential to assess the needs of your company before choosing a wide area network technology. Take size, locations, price, and other factors into account. 

Look for a solution that has the ability to enable a transport-independent overlay for a hybrid network consisting of private, wired broadband and wireless circuits. It should also offer flexibility with respect to infrastructure by offering either physical or virtual appliances within the branch offices. 

Beyond the network, it is smart to consider a fully managed SD-WAN solution. With this approach, you get a partner that will manage all of the various connectivity circuits and carriers that make up your SDWAN solution.

Carrier management can be a burden for businesses your managed SD-WAN provider can take this on for you.

Check here for more tips on deciding which wide area network technology solution fits your business.

Where to Get an SD-WAN Network

Wide area network technology makes it easier and cheaper for employees to access and edit data from anywhere on Earth. SD-WAN is becoming an increasingly popular option due to the many benefits it provides.

Choosing the best wide area network technology for your needs requires evaluating what your business requires and where to get it for the best price.

We provide various wide-area network technologies for businesses of all sizes. Browse our SD-WAN solutions and contact us for more information today.