At the most basic level, Software Defined – Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) is a combination of technologies designed to offer a simpler approach to the WAN. This new virtual architecture is fundamentally about efficiency. Imagine instead of one clogged road that everyone is trying to drive down, multiple highways that get you where you need to go. Here’s what you need to know about SD-WAN and how it can transform cloud storage and computing.
What is SD-WAN?
SD-WAN makes all connections virtual and combines them into one network. Then, this data can travel over multiple available connections, including MPLS, fiber, broadband, and wireless. In traditional WAN networks, all traffic needs to be routed to a single server or router for security reasons before connecting to applications, networks, or the cloud. SD-WAN routes traffic to the most efficient connection while still being secure.
How does SD-WAN work?
Today, many applications reside outside of a data center in the cloud, but employees, customers, and computers need fast access to these applications and data. SD-WAN automatically switches between pathways, finding the most efficient connection. It can automatically deploy and maintain a WAN using technologies like a VPN. In a situation where network capacity becomes limited for whatever reason, SD-WAN gives you the power to prioritize bandwidth, ensuring that the applications most critical to customer experience don’t skip a beat.
On a practical level, SD-WAN can be deployed over existing WAN connections, whether Internet (DIA, broadband, LTE) or private (MPLS, private line), to create a secure, private, fully meshed network. It’s also being driven by the decreasing cost of bandwidth and the increased need for connectivity.
Why does your business need it?
SD-WAN is becoming the most efficient and cost-effective way for businesses to do work. It comes down to giving the people who work for you the tools they need to compete and win on a global stage – upper management’s ultimate responsibility.
First, it allows for distributed data sources and applications in our ever-increasingly globalized world of business. SD-WAN gives you broad access to systems across locations and devices. This gives your company access to agile, high-performance applications and workflows for the next generation of business applications. Companies are also increasing the use of high-bandwidth communication methods such as video conferencing, VoIP, and other critical applications. SD-WAN offers a high Quality of Experience (QoE) for real-time applications, regardless of where the users are located. However, all of this doesn’t have to come at a high price. Previously, companies had to invest in infrastructure to get this kind of performance. SD-WAN eliminates the need for infrastructure investment, the high costs associated with supporting new technology, and lower operational costs. The deployment to a new location is also faster and more simplified.
Many providers, including AT&T, CBTS, Verizon, Comcast Business, and RapidScale now offer SD-WAN services. However, each is unique in its SD-WAN services. Contact us today if you want to know more about how SD-WAN can transform the way your business works and which provider is right for you.