SD-WAN is quickly becoming a popular option for better control of software-defined networking (SDN).
Standing for software-defined wireless access network, this technology allows for enhanced control, connection integration, and stability. It’s useful for companies and industries that rely on connections in different locations, such as in different states. As a flexible component, it’s rising in popularity.
To give you an idea of what SD-WAN is used for, how it’s implemented, and potential benefits, here are four things to know.
1. It’s controlled through software. SD-WAN basically takes the controls and configurations implemented by hardware for Internet traffic and shifts them onto a software platform. This gives management a snapshot of an entire network and lets them adjust traffic accordingly, with faster, more flexible results.
This real-time monitoring and modification of traffic can also be automated to streamline performance. Additionally, changes don’t have to done manually (physically at the router/node), which saves time.
2. SD-WAN is a product. In SDN, management is usually done by an add-on through the service. SD-WAN however is often a purchasable form of software which can be integrated with a company’s network. The types of services vary from vendor to vendor, but most will offer similar advantages.
This gives companies flexibility and options when looking for SD-WAN based solutions.
3. It connects to all network types. One of the advantages offered by SD-WAN is its ability to connect to all network types, such as DSL, fiber, cable, and cloud. WAN connections can only connect to each network type through an individual router, increasing costs (purchasing equipment for each connection type) and limiting flexibility.
4. Network improvements and better security. Even with all the advanced connection options out there, protecting digital assets is much harder. However, SD-WAN improves security by offering rigorous malware protections and network monitoring to catch threats before they occur.
Because of its software management, parties can intervene against network threats in real time, from any location, giving business networks more robust, proactive security.
Network improvements are also standard because of intelligent pathway control. Applications will determine the path of packets and forward traffic to various nodes, increasing speed and efficiency.
Management can set this forwarding at a central control and then forward this control to each SD-WAN router, benefitting the whole network in minutes. These controls are adjustable based on various characteristics, such as time, speed, IP address, device, and more.
While WAN and SDN have their places in creating efficient networks, it’s hard to beat SD-WAN. Having control over various network traffic nodes in real-time is essential to the performance of some companies. The increased security and protection are great benefits as well.
If you operate using a WAN based network or utilize SDN, consider an SD-WAN platform. These accessible programs offer a variety of benefits and can boost performance while cutting costs.
