SD-WAN: At a glance

Due to the development from centralized IT to decentralized, agile structures and the increased use of local cloud services, company networks are being redesigned. The requirements have changed. SD-WAN is the technological answer.

SD-WAN networks are typically based on local internet lines and offer short paths to local clouds. As an overlay network, they can bundle a wide variety of locally available lines and access technologies (underlay) and operate them actively. For example, an MPLS, Internet and LTE line. This is an ideal and cost-effective way of providing the necessary bandwidth at the location while increasing reliability at the same time.

SD-WAN is an overlay network technology. Encrypted tunneling enables routing and the implementation of security standards, even without touching the underlying underlay WAN configurations. By bundling several internet-based broadband connections, plus 4G/5G, MPLS can achieve comparable performance and availability. However, this is only ever based on the best-effort principle and not with clearly defined SLAs. As long as the underlay network is based on the Internet, this is not possible. However, as already mentioned, several connection types can be bundled at one location, which is one approach to achieving higher performance and reliability. Unlike conventional WAN solutions, where network security is ensured via multiple appliances, an SD-WAN can typically offer all the relevant functions already integrated in the service (or a single appliance) and correspondingly cost-effective.

Advantages

• Central management & reporting web console for the customer – Cloud-based management
• Lower costs – thanks to improved transportation options
• Security via tunneling and encryption options
• Fast deployment – simple, standardized zero-touch deployment
• Intelligent path control – performance assurance thanks to standardized policies and application-aware networking

SD-WAN solutions are available from a wide range of providers. System houses and carriers. The latter can also offer the management of the line infrastructure that most customers want. In the event of a fault or poor performance, you have a responsible contact person at the carrier and there is no finger-pointing between SD-WAN providers, local line suppliers and subcontractors.

It is not easy to find a suitable and reliable SD-WAN provider among many others. There are considerable technological, price and, above all, architectural differences. Below is a brief overview of various carriers and the solutions they use. In most cases, you will receive a basic or premium product from each provider.

Typical service options and an overview of providers

Basis: Managed SD-WAN Core (e.g. Cisco Meraki) includes wireless, switching, security, intelligent network insights, endpoint management and surveillance cameras. Fully integrated hardware, software and cloud services. Ideal for companies with a need for uncomplicated WAN, LAN and WLAN networks. Premium: Managed SD-WAN Premium (Cisco Viptela) serves both as a network termination for the MPLS and Internet access lines and as an SD-WAN router and firewall. Network elements in series are avoided and reliability is significantly increased. Ideal for companies with complex network requirements

Conclusion

SD-WAN changes WAN management through more agility, automation in deployment, control, greater visibility and lower costs for access lines. It can make sense to replace existing MPLS networks with an SD-WAN or to integrate them as an underlay, depending on requirements.

In addition to deciding on a provider, buying software and appliances is not enough. You need to carefully consider how to set up and manage your access network to ensure its performance. In practice, this is usually neither as easy nor as quick as SD-WAN providers promise. Purchasing a managed SD-WAN through large telcos is an option, but not all carriers are agile and responsive in their management.

Do you want to restructure or digitize your IT or do you need an SD-WAN solution for your company? Contact us free of charge and without obligation. Our experts will be happy to support you.