Benefits of SD-WAN

A software defined wide area network (SD-WAN), also called an intelligent edge network (IEN), is a type of software-based networking technology that provides a managed service at the edge of a private or public IP network. SD-WANs provide the ability to dynamically provision bandwidth, optimize latency, and deliver secure connectivity to endpoints.

SD-WAN is an evolution of the existing WAN technology. It provides a new way to connect remote sites using the Internet. This new approach to networking allows organizations to reduce operational costs and improve resource utilization for multi-site deployments. Administrators can use bandwidth more efficiently, helping them achieve higher levels of performance for critical apps without sacrificing security or data protection.

What is SD-WAN?

Software defined wide area network (SD-WAN), also called software defined networking, is an approach to implementing a network infrastructure using software instead of hardware. It is a type of cloud computing technology that enables organizations to deploy networks using a service provider’s existing infrastructure. SD-WAN provides a flexible, scalable, and secure solution for connecting branch offices, remote sites, and mobile workers to corporate headquarters.

What are the Benefits of SD-WAN?

With the advent of cloud computing, organizations are moving towards a hybrid approach to network design. Hybrid networking combines the best aspects of both physical and virtual networks. It allows companies to maintain the benefits of a private network while using public clouds to provide services like storage, compute, and databases. A hybrid network also provides flexibility in terms of scalability and cost.

For example, a company could start small with a few servers and then scale out when demand increases. Or, if a company already has a large infrastructure, it can move workloads to the cloud and free up resources on the corporate network.

SD-WAN is an acronym for Software Defined Wide Area Networking. It allows businesses to simplify their networks by using software instead of hardware. This means that the network itself becomes a service, not something you need to buy and maintain. It also means that the network is easier to manage because there is less equipment to keep track of.

Advantages and Disadvantages of SD-WAN?

SD-WAN is an overlay network that sits on top of your existing infrastructure, so it can be used to connect multiple sites without having to build out new physical connections between them. SD-WAN includes many benefits and drawbacks.

Advantages:

Cost savings

Since SD-WAN uses IP addresses instead of dedicated circuits or leased lines, you don’t have to pay for expensive hardware when connecting remote offices together. You only need to purchase one set of equipment at each site.

Scalability

With SD-WAN, you can add more sites as needed by simply adding additional nodes in the same way you would with any other type of WAN technology. This allows you to scale up quickly if traffic increases.

Security

SD-WAN offers secure communications over the Internet using SSL/TLS encryption. The encryption ensures that all data sent across the connection remains private and confidential.

Disadvantages:

Limited bandwidth

Because SD-WAN works over the public internet, there’s no guarantee of bandwidth available to users. If you plan to use SD-WAN for video streaming, you may want to purchase Latency. While SD-WAN does offer low latency, it’s still a noticeable delay compared to dedicated links. A 1ms ping time means packets take one millisecond to travel from one end to the other, and this isn’t ideal for high-bandwidth applications such as live streaming.

Limited reach

SD-WAN doesn’t provide direct connectivity to every device within its range. Instead, it connects devices directly to the closest node in the SD-WAN network. This makes it difficult to extend the reach of your network beyond the boundaries of your own building.

Does SD-WAN affect ROI?

SD-WAN is an important component of modern network architecture. It allows organizations to deploy services across multiple locations, maintaining consistent high-performance levels. Companies save money through lower operational costs, reduced downtime, and improved customer service. SD-WAN technology provides secure, high-speed connectivity across multiple sites and organizations.

Does SD-WAN replace VPN?

The question often arises about whether SD-WAN replaces VPN technology or not; instead, it complements VPN technology by providing additional functionality. Here’s how it works.

VPN is used to connect remote sites. For example, you might use VPN to connect a sales office with its headquarters. This allows employees at the remote site to access resources on the corporate network without having to travel to the headquarters location physically.

With SD-WAN, you can extend this capability across multiple locations using a cloud-based service provider instead of relying on costly dedicated infrastructure. You can still use VPN to create a secure connection between two points, but SD-WAN provides additional benefits such as improved performance and increased scalability.

Here’s another way to think about it. If you’re connecting two branches of a company, then you would typically use VPN. However, if you want to connect those branches to other companies’ websites, you’d use something called Content Delivery Networks (CDNs). CDNs are services that help deliver content quickly throughout the Internet. These days, many organizations rely on CDN providers to host their websites and web applications.

In addition to hosting websites, CDNs allow businesses to cache static assets like images or videos for faster delivery. When you visit a website, the server will send the requested files directly to your browser rather than going through the internet backbone.

In summary, SD-WAN complements VPN by allowing you to connect remote offices securely and to third parties. It does not replace VPN.

SD-WAN Benefits over MPLS

What is MPLS?

Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a protocol used to create a label switched path (LSP). The LSP is a logical connection between two points within a network. When traffic enters the network, the source device attaches a label to the packet. Then, as the packet travels through the network, routers along the path read the labels and forward packets based on the label attached to the packet. In this way, each router knows where to send the packet next.

MPLS has been around for decades and was designed specifically for telecommunications networks. Today, however, it is used to build private and public IP networks.

One advantage of SD-WAN compared to MPLS is that it offers more flexibility. With SD-WAN, you can create different types of tunnels based on traffic sent between locations. For example, you could have one tunnel for voice traffic and another for video streaming.

Another difference is that SD-WAN uses a standard protocol called Generic routing encapsulation (GRE), whereas MPLS uses proprietary protocols. The most significant benefit of this is that SD-WAN doesn’t require specialized hardware.

Why is SD-WAN better than MPLS?

Compared to Multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), software-defined wide area networks (SD-WANs) can be less expensive and more secure, offer higher performance, and protect your network from vulnerabilities that multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) cannot.

In Short, SD-WANS provide better visibility, availability, enhanced performance, and more flexibility. It’s why the market has seen interest in SD WAN rising over the last few years.

What are some features of an SD-WAN?

Key SD WAN Features

There are a number key SD-WAN features emerging, each more efficient and more secure than the previous one. Efficiency increases make the lives of IT departments easier. However, many of those automated features aren’t used at all. Vendors sometimes fall short when it comes to explaining the full functionality of their SD-WAN platforms to IT executives.

Sometimes, impasses between security teams and networking teams prevent organizations’ technical teams from enabling certain features. Next-generation firewalls often come with SD-WAN devices. Of course, many professional networkers have their tried and true ways of doing things.

When it comes to experimenting with new ways, like zero touch provisioning, they often resist. Regardless, companies should take into account all the key SD- WAN features and the various advantages which are listed below.

Zero-touch Provisioning

Zero touch provisioning is an approach to network configuration that allows users to connect directly to a service provider’s network using a web browser. Zero-touch means there is no need to manually configure devices at the user’s end. Instead, the device automatically connects to the service provider’s network when it boots up. This eliminates the need for manual intervention during setup and reduces time spent troubleshooting connectivity issues.

Typically, when you need to connect your branch offices together, you bring the hardware to a staging area. Then, someone configures and tests the device(s), before shipping them out to the branch. If there are hundreds of devices, this can take days or weeks.

Zero-Touch Provisioning is a standard feature of many SD-WAN devices, allowing them to configure themselves automatically. You just need an internet connection, and the device will connect and then auto-provision itself. This happens through the usage of pre-defined templates.

Encryption Key Rotation

Cryptography keys should be changed regularly. This is a tedious process that involves setting up change control policies and often causes scheduled downtime. Cryptography keys are often necessary for companies that work with governments in the fields of aerospace & defense. All businesses must comply with PCI compliance requirements, which require cryptography keys to be changed regularly.

SD- WAN platforms automate the management of VPN keys. This means you don’t have to manually change them. Instead, you can program the platform to rotate them automatically every minute, and it will not interrupt the data plane traffic during the rotation. As a result, you get better security, no downtime, and no need for manual VPN resources.

Multiplexed VPNs

When companies merge, they often need to operate separate networks. Security and compliance requirements may also require them to maintain separate networks. When the company upgrades its network to SD-WAN technology, the logical option seems to be buying multiple sets of hardware. But SD-WAN technology allows you to combine multiple VRFs and VPNs into one overlay. This means you can run multiple VPNs and VRFs at once, instead of just one. This lets you upgrade your network while keeping all your existing connections intact.

SD-WAN technology allows you to create multiple VPNs that share the same physical connection. You can also configure different levels of access for each user, allowing you to separate your network into different security zones.

Application-aware Routing

SD- WAN products can inspect traffic at layer 3 and above. You can also block traffic on a specific port (layer 4), while allowing other traffic through. An example would be a web server listening on port 80. SD-WAN products can also inspect traffic at layer 7 and apply granular policy rules for selected applications.

SD-WAN devices can detect thousands of apps and services. These devices can also measure application performance requirements. Companies can use this information to optimize telecom costs at an extremely granular level. The device monitors latency, jitter, and other characteristics that critical applications require. The monitoring is in near real time, so the device can move apps to the best, most cost effective transport method that meets those performance requirements.

Layer 7 traffic inspection is not always available due to its high costs. For example, if you’re using an AWS VPC, you can’t inspect Layer 7 traffic. If you’re using a VPN service, you might need to pay extra for the service. Application-aware routing provides performance and cost benefits overall, but it doesn’t come at zero cost. Companies must spend time defining policies for every app.

Programmatic APIs

APIs help businesses automate the entire SD-WAN lifecycle. This is an underrated feature, though IT execs are starting to appreciate the value of APIs. With APIs, you get to automate and customize the SDN gear’s configuration. You then scale those configurations at any time. You can also automate and customize the troubleshooting process so that it collects performance data for real-time traffic optimization as well as long term monitoring and infrastructure management.

SD-WAN technology allows organizations to collect data about their network traffic. This helps them monitor their network traffic, manage user groups, conduct real-time monitoring, collect device inventories, and troubleshoot devices.

Optimized Cloud Connectivity

SD-WAN provides a solution for connecting branch offices to the cloud. Many network administrators can’t monitor the performance of SaaS applications or IaaS service from Microsoft Azure and Amazon web services. Where available, network admins can use programmatic API to measure the performance of those services.

SD-WAN devices connect to the closest SD-WAN point of presence, then measure the app’s performance, providing admins a view into the app’s performance like they never did before. With IaaS, the SD-WAN device connects to an instance of the SD- WAN router within the cloud services provider’s domain. From here, it measures the app’s performance, giving administrators a clear view into the app’s overall performance. With SaaS, the SD-WAN device connects to the nearest point of presence. It then makes real-time decisions about the best path to route traffic through. In some cases, users have seen performance improve as high as 40%.

Data Analytics

SD-WAN systems offer an incredible amount of visibility into the state of your network. Data collected from the edge devices allows you to see what is happening at each point along the path. You can then analyze the data to identify any problems and resolve them before they become costly and time consuming. Analyzing the data provides insight into the health of the network and helps you plan future upgrades and improvements.

End to end Micro segmentation

Micro-Segmentation is a method for separating different types of traffic within your network. By doing this you can isolate certain traffic and block access to it. This allows you to protect your network from attacks. Micro-segmentation also helps you keep track of what is happening within your network. You can see all the traffic going through your network and how it is affecting other parts of the network.

Service Chaining

Branch office traffic was routed back through the data center using secure MPLS connections. When the branch network grew larger, businesses started looking at ways to add additional security features to protect against attacks. Firewalls were added to block malicious traffic and intrusion prevention systems were deployed to stop hackers from accessing the internal network. NAT boxes were also installed to allow employees access to the Internet while keeping sensitive information private.

A service chain is a series of interconnected services that form an end-to-end solution. Service chains allow organizations to minimize extraneous branch offices traffic. By creating a chain of connected network solutions, you can automate the way the system handles different types of traffic flows, according to your requirements for latency, security or quality of service.

Fixed Wireless Connectivity

Fixed wireless offers an alternative to cable or fiber optic connections. It allows businesses to deploy a high-speed connection at low cost. Fixed wireless works by using radio waves instead of cables to transmit information across long distances. This technology is commonly referred to as point-to-point microwave communications. A single antenna sends and receives signals to all devices connected to the network. Fixed wireless provides speeds comparable to wired networks.

SD-WAN provides an all-in-one solution for businesses looking to transform their networks. By automating and optimizing existing infrastructure, you can save time and money while improving your company’s productivity.

Next generation Security

With all the changes in technology, companies need to adapt to stay competitive. One of those changes is the move to the cloud. Companies are moving towards using software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications instead of installing software on their own servers. For example, Google Apps, Salesforce, and Office 365 are all examples of SaaS applications. These applications are hosted on a company’s server, making them easier to manage. However, when users connect to the application through the internet, there is a risk of exposing sensitive information. A firewall is often used to protect against external threats. But what about internal threats? If employees are connecting to the same server as the application, then any malicious activity could also take place on that server. In addition, if the server is compromised, then all the connected devices will become vulnerable.

Need to ensure your organization has a multi-location network access solution. You will also need to integrate a firewall, web filtering, intrusion prevention system, and high-performance SSL inspection.

Flexible Connection Options

SD-WANs enable networks to route traffic over multiple connections. These connections include existing MPLS circuits and the Internet through broadband and 4G/LTE. The result is a high-efficiency way of managing both WANS and overhead. You can leverage more flexible and lower cost broadband options.

How to overcome SD-WAN challenges?

SD-WAN has its drawbacks, but it also has many benefits. While there are some challenges associated with SD-WAN deployment, these should not prevent organizations from investigating or deploying this technology, especially when weighed against the potential business advantages. There are several factors to consider before making an SD-WAN decision, including cost, security, scalability, and management. The following sections describe each of these in more detail.

Cost:

Cost is one of the most important considerations when making an SD-WAN decision. It’s no secret that SD-WAN appliances are expensive, and they often represent a significant investment. Many companies outsource SD-WAN deployments because they don’t want to make the initial capital expenditure (CAPEX) required to purchase an appliance.

However, if you decide to go down this path, you must ensure you get the best value for money. This means understanding how much you will save by outsourcing SD-WAN compared to buying an appliance yourself. Also, understand the total cost of ownership (TCO), including both CAPEX and OPEX the ongoing operational expenses associated with maintaining the service.

Security:

Security is another key consideration when choosing an SD-WAN vendor. Most vendors provide various services, including firewall protection, VPN access, application layer firewalls, and IPSec tunneling. These services help protect users from malicious attacks and unauthorized access to sensitive data.

However, there are still risks involved in using an external provider. For instance, an attacker could compromise the SD-WAN gateway and internal access networks. You should use strong authentication methods such as multi factor authentication to mitigate this risk. Multi Factor authentication requires two or more forms of identification to log into a system.

Scalability:

Scalability is another factor to consider when weighing the pros and cons of an SD-WAN solution. If your organization grows rapidly, then you may require additional bandwidth capacity. However, you may only need a few extra connections if growth is slow.

Management:

Management is yet another issue to consider when evaluating SD-WAN solutions. You must find a vendor that offers robust administration tools that allow you to monitor and manage all aspects of your network.

For example, you should look for a vendor with centralized monitoring capabilities, allowing administrators to view performance metrics across multiple sites. Additionally, you should check to see if the vendor supports advanced troubleshooting tools, such as packet capture, flow analysis, and deep packet inspection.

These are just some of the issues to consider when deciding whether or not to implement SD-WAN. Before making a final decision, however, be sure to weigh the costs versus the benefits.

What are the limitations of SD-WAN?

SD-WAN appliances are designed to solve problems associated with network connectivity and routing. However, they lack the advanced security capabilities required for enterprise networks today. Most SD-WAN solutions offer basic firewall functionality that prevents attacks from reaching the core network. Some solutions also provide basic intrusion prevention systems, but they lack the ability to detect zero-day threats. Enterprises need to manage multiple appliances from different vendors to achieve full coverage, increasing costs and complexity.

SD-WAN deployment isn’t easy, especially when you factor in the cost, complexity, and time required to deploy new networks. There are many factors to consider when planning your SD-WAN deployment. Some of the most significant considerations include the following:

• Cost: How much will it cost? Will the solution fit within your budget?
• Complexity: What skills does the team need to implement the solution? Are there any special requirements for the hardware or software?
• Time: How long will it take to complete the project? Is there enough time to get everything done before the deadline?
• Scalability: Can the solution scale as needed? Do you have room to grow?
• Security: Does the solution meet your company’s security needs?
• Reliability: Will the solution work reliably? Will it fail unexpectedly?
• Performance: How fast can the solution deliver results?
• Support: Who do you call when something goes wrong?
• Mobility: How will mobility affect the solution?
• Compliance: Will the solution comply with regulatory standards?

The most important thing to understand about SD-WAN is that it doesn’t replace traditional WAN technologies like Frame Relay, ATM, etc. Rather, it builds upon these legacy technologies by adding additional intelligence and flexibility to improve performance and reduce operational costs.

In order to fully leverage the benefits of SD-WAN, organizations must first determine their specific business objectives. Once those objectives have been identified, a thorough analysis should be performed to identify which SD-WAN technology best fits the organization’s needs. The next step is selecting the right vendor based on the abovementioned criteria.