SD WAN (Software-Defined Wide-Area Network) is a type of network architecture that offers businesses greater security and efficiency than ever before. While SD WAN has become the standard for business networks, some businesses still use traditional WAN to connect their employees and branch offices to their central servers, which is no longer an ideal arrangement. Let’s talk about what sets SD WAN apart and how it is used in other network models, like SASE.
What is SD WAN?
First, let’s define a WAN. Wide-Area Networks typically connect multiple business locations or branches to a central network. Historically this has been achieved through multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) circuits. Unfortunately, MPLS presents a number of security and efficiency problems now that most businesses are semi-reliant on the cloud.
How SD WAN works solves many of these problems. It uses software running over standard network transport—MPLS, broadband, internet, etc.—to connect any user to any application. This software allows for centralized management, in-depth analytics, and automated provisioning for managing large numbers of users. SD-WAN can be integrated with security protocols like Intrusion Prevention (IPS), web filtering, SSL inspection, and anti-malware. All of these features can be managed from a single, centralized interface.
How is SD WAN Different From Other Network Architectures?
SD WAN offers a new level of security, automation, and centralization for business networks. This makes the job of your IT department or third-party IT provider much easier. SD WAN also affords a lot more flexibility in an era where remote work and cloud-based applications are very common.
SD WAN can also save your business money. Based on total cost of ownership, it is less expensive compared to MPLS. It also cuts costs by consolidating your network and security solutions into a single service. Automated provisioning typically reduces bandwidth costs by a huge margin as well.
SD WAN and SASE
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a network architecture that implements SD WAN as its base. SASE is becoming the gold standard for business networks that need maximum security and efficiency. In addition to SD WAN, SASE typically integrates FaaS (Firewall as a Service), Secure Web Gateway, Zero Trust, and Cloud Access Security Brokers. These components work together to protect users on-site and remote, monitor network traffic, restrict application access, and manage bandwidth.
Now You Know How SD WAN Works to Make Your Network Safer
SD WAN has become the standard for business networks, and it is a critical component of SASE, which many businesses are moving to adopt. Implementing SD WAN in a SASE framework is more secure, more efficient, and easier to manage. Learn more about SD WAN, SASE, and how to optimize your business network by consulting your Digital Agent.
Kate Lewis
Marketing & Sales Coordinator
Digital Agent
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