From MPLS to hybrid network with SD-WAN

MPLS in transition: why the classic architecture reaches its limits

The classic MPLS network has changed considerably in recent years. While it was once the best way to set up a private, high-performance corporate network, new developments are increasingly leading to changes in the classic network architecture. This does not mean that MPLS has had its day, quite the opposite, the need for security, performance and clear SLAs is unbroken. However, with the increased use of cloud services such as Amazon Web Services, vmware Cloud, Office 365 and CRM tools, it makes sense to expand the classic MPLS network. While maintaining the usual performance, security and overview. For a detailed comparison of the two approaches, see our overview of MPLS vs. SD-WAN.

SD-WAN: the new solution approach

The providers’ answer to this is called SD-WAN (“Software Defined Wide Area Network”). In principle, the SD WAN is a server with extended functionalities and tools. It offers IT the option of recording and monitoring all network connections in a user interface. Furthermore, lines can be integrated as far as possible regardless of their carrier media, carrier or protocols. For example, MPLS as well as normal Internet lines from different local carriers. The latter is interesting, for example, for home offices or small branch offices in distant countries with high line costs. Traffic routed via the Internet is automatically encrypted using IPsec. Cloud-based applications can be connected directly to your own data center via dedicated cloud access and delivered to the locations via the MPLS network. In addition to classic functions such as WAN management on a single interface, firewall, etc., IT also has the option of reading out the exact bandwidth of each application and each location and adapting it flexibly depending on the carrier. Some carriers already offer on-demand networks that allow flexible bandwidth adjustment on a daily basis. So far, this has mostly only been available in data centers, but carriers are consistently extending availability to their fiber-optic connected buildings. But even if an on-demand network is not yet available, especially at foreign locations, the integration of Internet lines from third-party carriers on the SD-WAN platform, for example, represents a convenient solution for network operation. Bottlenecks can be easily detected across all lines and, for example, non-critical applications can be handled via Internet lines instead of the expensive MPLS network.