Software Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) needs no further introduction. It is a modern approach for connecting various transport services simultaneously. Unlike the traditional WAN connections which are expensive and complex, SD-WAN is cost effective and easy to integrate.
SD-WAN Solution Explained
Traditional WANs are similar to the outdated, fixed railway networks—dependable yet inflexible. They rely extensively on physical routers and hardware appliances, needing manual, time-consuming setups for every device. This system is expensive because it depends on pricey MPLS circuits and dedicated hardware, and it does not have the ability to quickly adjust to changing business requirements. Expanding a traditional WAN is similar to building new railway tracks – it is difficult and costly.
On the flip side, SD-WAN is the efficient, up-to-date pathway for managing networks. It encapsulates network management at a software level, making use of different transport options, thereby lessening reliance on particular hardware.. Continue reading.
key Features SD-WAN Solution
There are various SD-WAN solutions available which make the selection for the best one for a business requirement careful consideration. however, take note of the points below as they should be prioritized when selecting an SD-WAN solution include the following:
- Ease of Use: Be patient to search for a solution that is easy to control, applied and integrated into the existing system, both new and old.
- Security Features: Place more importance on the SD-WAN solution that has an in-built security feature to reduce cost of risk. This should include all the advanced malfunction system detection, a strong system that prevents infiltration and a whole lot more.
- Visibility: scout for an SD-WAN solution that would give information on users activity and involvement at an endpoint. This allows data to be proactive for incident management and prevents actions.
- Efficiency: Source for an SD-WAN solution that can utilize a multi linking technology to bring different connections together without having to involve external routers. This brings about a better pair and ultimately reduces the cost of SD-WAN.
- Scalability and Flexibility: Settle for an SD-WAN solution that permits the combination of capabilities, naturally supporting the idea of hardware and software combination with at least four nodes. This gives room for flexibility and allows growth as network demands evolve.
- Standardized Features: Make sure the chosen SD-WAN solution comes with the needed and essential features of application routing, link load balancing, and it should also be a consistent control for WAN.
Top Five (5) SD-WAN Solutions
Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN
Aruba’s EdgeConnect SD-WAN provides a modern and easy-to-use solution for connecting employees securely over the network, no matter the size of the business or the devices and locations being used. This SD-WAN uses zero-trust principles to maintain network security and offer centralized and streamlined control. Users can manage and enforce policies centrally and enhance network performance as necessary. This SD-WAN solution is user-friendly and guarantees that businesses of any size or expertise level benefit from SD-WAN implementation.
Aryaka SmartConnect
Aryaka provides a completely managed private network necessary for dependable, uniform, secure, and effortless connectivity among various cloud networks and locations. Operating out of San Mateo, Aryaka has been overseeing the Secure Access Service Storage (SASE) and SD-WAN industry for over a decade now. The automation and orchestration features provide valuable control and analysis of WAN performance and simplify the implementation of network-wide changes. Aryaka SD-WAN is suggested for organizations with various sites that want a simple solution, providing a secure and effective network while reducing administrative tasks.
Cisco Viptela
Cisco Viptela provides two different options: Cisco Meraki and Cisco SD-WAN. Both of these options are simple to put into practice. The main target of Cisco Meraki is small to medium-sized businesses. It promotes a strong failover system that guarantees network resilience, dependable support for Wi-Fi and security cameras, and the ability to scale up. Cisco SD-WAN is designed for bigger businesses, offering additional features, improved automation for tasks like software installation and upgrades, and the capability to manage larger, more intricate networks. In general, Cisco Viptela is tasked with creating a range of top-secret solutions for connecting and protecting corporate networks of organizations. This improved solution aims to ensure the organization has a streamlined and fruitful experience.
Fortinet Secure SD-WAN
As the name suggests, Fortinet Secure SD-WAN provides top-notch security features built into its system. Fortinet secure SD-WAN offers a high-level next-generation firewall and routing for robust security, along with an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for seamless scalability without impacting performance. Fortinet’s FortiGate firewall SD-WAN is a reliable and versatile solution trusted by organizations for its strong reputation. Fortinet secure SD-WAN guarantees seamless operation while expanding to accommodate increasing requirements.
Versa SD-WAN
Versa Network, a SASE provider based in California, boasts of offering superb scalability, deployment, flexibility, and security. Versa asserts that it is the sole SD-WAN solution that integrates SD-WAN, network security, advanced routing, and secure access into one software platform. Their SD-WAN solution includes features for reducing latency and implementing encryption overlays. It is created to be used for a variety of purposes while ensuring consistent efficiency and strong security, and is relied upon by organizations.
