These days organizations rely heavily on their network infrastructure to communicate with customers, partners, and employees. However, managing a network can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially when dealing with multiple branch locations, data centers, and cloud services. This is where SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) can be helpful. SD-WAN is a networking technology that utilizes multiple WAN connections. There is software that essentially defines which WAN connection traffic on your network should use. This allows businesses to connect their various locations and services in a more efficient and cost-effective manner.

Improved Network Performance

SD-WAN can automatically route traffic over the most optimal path, improving network performance and minimizing latency. It does this by analyzing network traffic and selecting the best path based on factors such as bandwidth availability, network congestion, and link quality. This ensures that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need to function effectively, while less critical applications are routed over lower-priority paths.

Increased Agility

SD-WAN simplifies network management and makes it easier to make changes to the network quickly and easily. With SD-WAN, network administrators can manage their WAN using software and automation. This reduces the need for manual configuration and management. Deploying new applications and services is made easier, as well as making changes to the network on the fly.

Cost Savings

SD-WAN allows organizations to reduce their reliance on expensive MPLS circuits and leverage more affordable broadband internet services. This is achieved by using multiple transport technologies – such as broadband, 4G/5G, and MPLS – to create a hybrid network that can be dynamically adjusted to meet bandwidth and performance needs. This not only decreases costs but also provides organizations with more flexibility when it comes to selecting their network infrastructure.

SD-WAN In Use

SD-WAN can be used in a number of different applications. It does not matter if you only have one user or multiple. In situations where you need the best network performance and reliability possible, look for a SD-WAN solution. Here are some common use cases for SD-WAN:

Connecting branch offices: SD-WAN allows organizations to connect their remote branch offices to their main network without the need for expensive dedicated connections. This can be achieved by leveraging low-cost broadband internet connections and using SD-WAN to intelligently route traffic over the most optimal path.
Cloud connectivity: With the increasing use of cloud services, SD-WAN provides a secure and reliable way to connect to cloud applications and services. It can optimize traffic routing and ensure that users have access to the most suitable and high-performing cloud resources.
Security: SD-WAN offers enhanced security features such as end-to-end encryption, next-generation firewalls, and intrusion prevention systems. This ensures that the traffic flowing over the network is secure and protected from cyber threats.
Application performance: SD-WAN provides organizations with better control over their applications by optimizing traffic routing, prioritizing traffic based on business needs, and providing real-time visibility into network performance.
Internet Backup: In the event of a network outage, SD-WAN can also provide failover capabilities. It will automatically route traffic over secondary links and allow critical applications to remain operational. When your primary link reconnects, traffic will be rerouted as needed.

Overall, SD-WAN is a powerful networking technology that can help organizations improve their network performance, reduce costs, and increase agility. By simplifying network infrastructure and automating network management, SD-WAN can free up valuable time and resources for organizations, allowing them to focus on their core business objectives. Whether you need to connect multiple sites, support remote workforces, or provide secure Wi-Fi access to customers, SD-WAN can help simplify management.

If you’re interested in learning more about SD-WAN and how it can benefit your business, contact us today via phone, email, or chat!