What you should look for in a managed SD-WAN service provider…

There are several important points to consider when deciding on a managed SD-WAN service provider

In today’s world, IT departments are often faced with the challenge of navigating complex multi-cloud environments, driving digital transformation, scaling and supporting a connected hybrid workforce. As a result, IT leaders are increasingly turning to software-defined wide area networks, or SD-WAN for short, as a solution. SD-WAN not only offers increased productivity through efficient traffic routing to improve application performance, but also connects branch offices and enhances network security.

However, the choice of SD-WAN solutions on the market is huge and ranges from systems developed and managed completely independently to externally managed services. However, self-management of such solutions can be associated with risks.

However, partnering with a service provider that does not fully understand the specific needs of your organization or does not have the necessary skills to meet those needs can be just as risky. It is therefore essential to select a Managed Services Provider (MSP) for SD-WAN that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of your requirements and can fulfill them.

What is important when choosing such a service provider

Reputation and experience: The reputation and experience of a provider play a decisive role. Look for a service provider who can handle the development, setup and operation of a network solution on your behalf. A trusted partner with extensive experience in various deployment environments and the ability to provide personalized solutions and end-to-end support is critical. The provider’s Net Promoter Score (NPS) can be an indicator of satisfied customers and therefore of successfully implemented SD-WAN projects.

Scope of services: In addition to SD-WAN, other technology solutions and security services such as firewalls, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), Zero Trust Remote Access and DDoS protection should also be provided or managed by the provider. This underlines the importance of a service provider that not only specializes in SD-WAN, but also offers a wide range of integrated technology solutions.

Security standards, design and implementation expertise

Security standards: The security of your network infrastructure and data should be a top priority. Find out about the security functions integrated by your SD-WAN provider and the additional security services available to ensure comprehensive protection.

Design and implementation expertise: Fast and error-free commissioning of your SD-WAN solution is crucial. The service provider should be able to understand and implement your specific requirements without you having to become an expert yourself.

Performance, management and transparency

Performance and management: The performance of the network is directly linked to the productivity of your employees and the end-user experience. The provider should be able to improve network and application performance by optimizing the configuration of SD-WAN technology.

Transparency and monitoring: A comprehensive insight into network performance is essential for IT management. The service provider should provide a customer portal that offers real-time information on the performance of the network infrastructure and tickets.