The Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) is being seen as a revolutionary phenomenon in the field of networking. A shift from IP networks to SD-WAN can yield remarkable results. Businesses could witness an impressive 80% surge in bandwidth efficiency (source:www.virginmediabusiness.co.uk), a staggering 98% reduction in failover time, and an 85% enhancement in overall network performance.

As organisations embrace SD-WAN, the paradigm shift promises not just technological advancement but a revolution in network capabilities.

Firstly, what Is SD-WAN?

SD-WAN, a software-defined wide area network is a technology that is based on software-defined networking. It provides a virtual service where data centres can be connected to branches and the cloud. That enables organisations to securely connect users, applications, and data across multiple sites with improved performance, reliability, and scalability.

SD-WAN uses a centralised control plane to route traffic, which enables efficient management of WANs and provides centralised control and visibility over the entire network. This technology decouples networking hardware from the control plane, making the WAN more efficient and cost-effective due to lower infrastructure and transport costs.

SD-WAN, in other words, may be seen as a transition away from a legacy, hardware-centric approach to networking - a move that is more adaptable, smart, efficient, and cost-effective.

Why now for SD-WAN?

SD-WAN has become increasingly relevant in recent years, driven by the rise in remote work and the need for faster and more effective connectivity to power IoT and Edge solutions. SD-WAN provides the ability to connect multiple LAN and WAN networks into a single network that is capable of automatically switching packets to ensure thorough delivery, cost considerations, or application performance. It produces streamlined, consistent deployment and operational impact just when modern enterprises need it the most.

What are the Benefits of SD-WAN?

SD-WAN revolutionises network capabilities, providing various advantages across performance, scalability, management, and security.

Improved Network Performance

1. Intelligent Routing Capabilities: SD-WAN leverages intelligent routing algorithms that automatically adjust data traffic. This guarantees that information travels through the shortest path in real time, which in turn increases the performance and responsiveness of the whole network.

2. Reduced Latency for Critical Applications: Through increased attention to the organisation and the optimisation of traffic flows, the SD-WAN solution greatly reduces latency, which is especially important for applications that involve the immediate transfer of data. This leads to better user experiences and quick and reliable delivery of essential applications.

Scalability

1. Adapting to Changing Business Needs: SD-WAN has built-in scalability, which enables businesses to scale up or down depending on their needs easily. SD-WAN solutions offer flexibility that can be applied to both scaling up operations or making alterations to network configurations to account for changing business environments.

2. No Need for Additional Hardware or Software: SD-WAN differs from other network solutions in that it works effectively without demanding significant investments in the purchase of additional hardware or software products. It capitalises on the current infrastructure with the capacity to adjust to different workloads, thus, eliminating the need for costly upgrades.

Simplified Network Management

SD-WAN helps to streamline the complexities that accompany network management.

1. End-to-end Management for Entire WAN Infrastructure: SD-WAN offers centralised control and management of the entire WAN infrastructure, which allows it to increase visibility, and make monitoring and configuration tasks easier.

2. Single Dashboard View of the Network: Consolidating network management into a single dashboard offers administrators a comprehensive view of the network. This unified interface streamlines monitoring, troubleshooting, and configuration tasks, reducing operational complexities.

Enhanced Security

SD-WAN addresses security concerns through innovative solutions.

1. Native Next-Generation Firewall Capabilities: Integrating next-generation firewall capabilities directly into the network architecture, SD-WAN ensures robust protection against evolving cyber threats, enhancing overall network security.

2. Elimination of Separate Security Devices: SD-WAN consolidates security functions within the infrastructure, reducing the need for separate security devices. This integrated approach enhances efficiency and reduces the attack surface, fortifying the network against potential vulnerabilities.

How does SD-WAN work?

The operational framework of SD-WAN involves several key elements:

●   Centralised Control Plane: The SD-WAN solution utilises a centralised control plane, enabling administrators to formulate rules and policies. These directives can be uniformly deployed across the entire network, providing a centralised mechanism for routing traffic.

●   Decoupling of Data and Control Planes: By decoupling the data plane and control plane, SD-WAN enhances flexibility and adaptability in network management.

●   Virtualisation of Multiple Connections: SD-WAN creates an overlay that virtualises multiple, diverse connections, regardless of carriers. This agnostic approach ensures a seamless integration of varied connections for optimal network performance.

●   IoT Edge Integration: SD-WAN supports Internet of Things(IoT) edges, facilitating secure communication from edge devices to the network back end. This is particularly crucial for processing data at the network's edge, whether connected to a public or private cloud.

●   Utilisation of Multiple Means of Transport: Employing multiple means of transport, SD-WAN interconnects a network of SD-WAN appliances. This approach enhances reliability and resilience in network connectivity.

SD-WAN significantly improves application performance, delivering an enhanced user experience, fostering business productivity, and agility, and concurrently reducing IT costs.

Unleash agility and security with Vi Hybrid SD-WAN: Your network evolution starts here.

Are traditional WANs holding you back? Vi Hybrid SD-WAN solutions break free from limitations, offering a managed, cloud-based solution that empowers your business with:

●   Unmatched Performance: Intelligent routing prioritises critical applications, minimising latency for a seamless user experience.

●   Effortless Scalability: Adapt to changing needs instantly – scale up or down without hardware hassles.

●   Simplified Management: Manage your entire WAN, even across different providers, through a centralised dashboard for ultimate control.

●   Enhanced Security: Next-generation firewall protection is built-in, safeguarding your data without additional investments.

Ready to revolutionise your network? Experience the Vi SD-WAN difference today. Click here to request to request a callback and discuss your specific needs.

Download our brochure for more in-depth information and unlock the agility and security your business deserves with Vi Hybrid SD-WAN.

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