SD-WAN Solutions: Benefits and How to Choose the Right One

SD-WAN, or Software-Defined Wide Area Network, is a transformative approach to managing modern networks that shifts the control of WAN traffic from physical hardware to software, offering a new level of flexibility and control. It creates a network that adapts as swiftly as business needs change.

With SD-WAN, instead of manually configuring each piece of hardware, you centrally control everything through software. This means you can easily redirect traffic, prioritize applications, and optimize performance across your network. It's like having a smart traffic system for your data.

Benefits of SD-WAN for businesses

Saves costs

With SD-WAN, you don’t need to be locked in pricey MPLS contracts. You can mix and match connection types—like using broadband for less critical tasks while reserving MPLS or 5G for high-priority applications. This flexibility significantly reduces operational expenses.

Boosts performance

An SD-WAN network adapts to current conditions, ensuring that critical applications always get the bandwidth they need. Imagine it's the busiest time of the day, and you are in an important video conference. With SD-WAN, you can rest easy knowing your system will prioritize this traffic over, say, a background system update. This means no more lag or disruptions, allowing you to focus on the conversation at hand.

Boosts security

SD-WAN offers robust security features right out of the box. By segmenting the network and enforcing policies, you can safeguard data as it travels across various connections. This confidence in your network security allows you to innovate and collaborate without constantly worrying about potential threats.

Extends your network into the cloud

As your reliance on cloud applications grows, so does the need for reliable access. SD-WAN extends your network into the cloud, offering optimized pathways for services like Microsoft Office 365. This will ensure that your data takes the fastest, most secure express lane to reach critical cloud resources, which enhances performance and ensures a smooth, consistent user experience.

Simplifies network management

With SD-WAN, managing the network is far more straightforward. From a single, centralized dashboard, you can oversee traffic, apply security measures, and even plan for future needs. This ease of management means fewer headaches for you and allows you to be more proactive in maintaining network health.

Key features of SD-WAN solutions

Centralized management

A typical challenge in managing numerous SD-WAN devices is orchestrating communications and traffic workflows between different branch offices. 

Traditional WAN models, with their hub and spoke setup, are easier to deploy but aren't efficient when it comes to bandwidth or application management. They don't profit from direct internet connections. 

SD-WAN, on the other hand, allows these direct connections, but this requires a sophisticated, fully meshed VPN solution—a complexity many organizations struggle with.

The solution? 

A centralized management system that consolidates all essential functions into a single console and spans all distributed branch environments. This setup allows administrators to deliver and orchestrate configurations and policies more efficiently. 

Errors that could expose the network to cyber risks or cause outages can be quickly identified and corrected. A central orchestrator simplifies deployment and enables automation, saving time and making it easier to meet business demands.

The orchestration tool can automatically manage traffic loads. It designates additional hubs when needed, preventing bottlenecks and minimizing manual configuration. 

This ease of management is a game-changer. It might not directly handle compliance, but it simplifies the infrastructural complexity, making it easier to demonstrate compliance to auditors. This is vital as organizations need to validate compliance efficiently and effectively, without overburdening their teams.

Simplified control through a single interface

When managing an SD-WAN, a single interface can transform the process. It puts everything at your fingertips, just like controlling your smart home through one app. It’s about having simplicity in a complex world. 

With a centralized interface, you gain a bird’s eye view of your entire network. This means every branch, every hub, are all in one place. You're no longer navigating through multiple systems or drowning in a sea of dashboards. This streamlined approach is like driving a car with a state-of-the-art navigation system, guiding you past potential roadblocks effortlessly.

Think of the time it'll save. For instance, if a branch office in New York has a connectivity hiccup, there's no need to call IT at the location. You log into the centralized system, spot the issue, and resolve it with a few clicks. It’s like having a remote control for your network. 

By using the central interface, traffic policies can be updated across all branches instantaneously. Deploying a new application to dozens of sites can be managed from this single screen. It’s like a magic wand for network admins.

Let’s talk about security because it’s critical. With a centralized dashboard, you can quickly pinpoint weak spots in your security armor. The system flags anomalies, allowing you to act before they become threats. 

For example, unexpected traffic from a branch in Los Angeles triggers an alert. From your central interface, you can delve into the details, ensuring it’s addressed before any harm is done. This proactive approach is akin to having sensors throughout your house that alert you to unknown activity.

Automation is your ally. The interface intelligently manages traffic loads, adapting to real-time demands. If the Chicago office suddenly sees a traffic spike, the system adjusts routes without your manual input. This is like having an autopilot in your network operations, offering a smoother experience and reducing the chances of human error. 

The centralized interface doesn't just make management easier; it frees up time for strategic tasks, letting you focus on what matters most for your business.

Compliance checks become less of a burden, too. The system keeps logs and tracks changes, making audits less daunting. You can easily pull up reports showing adherence to policies across your global footprint. It’s peace of mind wrapped in convenience, all accessed through a single, elegant interface.

Real-time network monitoring and analytics

SD-WAN solutions give you the ability to see what's happening on your network at any given moment. This capability allows for quick troubleshooting and system optimization. 

For example, if a branch in San Francisco experiences unexpected traffic spikes, analytics tools can immediately pinpoint the cause, whether it's a surge in video calls or a new application rollout.

Real-time monitoring doesn't just keep the network running smoothly, it enhances security too. With continuous analytics, you can set alerts for unusual activities—like unauthorized data transfers from a location in Miami—which are flagged instantly, giving you the chance to respond before any potential breach.

With analytics, historical data is at your fingertips. By studying past trends, you can predict future network demands. Let's say the holiday season typically results in increased traffic for an e-commerce site. You can prepare the network to handle this surge, ensuring a seamless customer experience.

Another powerful feature of real-time analytics is its ability to correlate network behavior with application performance. If an application isn't running well at a branch in Chicago, you can quickly identify whether the issue stems from the network or the application itself. This insight saves time and resources, reducing troubleshooting from hours to minutes.

You can also rely on analytics to manage bandwidth more effectively. By examining the types of traffic flowing through the network, you can prioritize critical applications over less important ones. This means a video conference in New York gets the bandwidth it needs, while less critical updates are delayed until off-peak times.

Dynamic path selection

Traditional setups are like toll roads with fixed routes. SD-WAN with dynamic path selection offers flexible options, rerouting traffic based on real-time conditions. It's akin to using a GPS that dynamically reroutes you to avoid traffic jams, ensuring a smoother journey.

Consider a scenario where you have multiple branches spread across the country, each connected through various internet links. Suppose the Denver branch relies heavily on a stable connection for video conferencing. 

If that branch’s primary path starts experiencing jitter or packet loss, dynamic path selection kicks in. It automatically switches to a backup path with better performance, maintaining a high-quality call without the need for manual intervention.

Dynamic path selection doesn't just improve performance; it's also about cost efficiency. In situations where you have both MPLS and broadband connections available, the system can prioritize critical business applications on MPLS for better reliability, while less critical traffic flows over cheaper broadband links. 

For instance, if a significant file transfer starts overwhelming the MPLS link, the SD-WAN can redistribute non-essential traffic over broadband. It's akin to rerouting delivery trucks during rush hour to side streets, saving time and money.

Security is also enhanced with this setup. If a security threat is detected on a particular path, such as unexpected data transmissions from the Dallas branch, the system can reroute traffic away from the compromised path, while security protocols are enacted. This proactive measure helps contain potential breaches swiftly, much like shutting down a bridge when there's a fire risk.

Managing this flexibility is effortless. The centralized dashboard plays a significant role here. You set policies that dictate how path selections should occur based on application requirements and network performance metrics. 

This automated process means you can focus on overseeing strategic initiatives rather than micromanaging traffic flows. It's as if the network has its own intuition, adjusting paths on the fly to ensure seamless operations.

Dynamic path selection is invaluable when scaling the network. As your business grows and new branches are added, the SD-WAN adapts. Each location can take advantage of the most efficient path available without complex manual configuration. With this capability, you ensure that the network not only meets today’s demands but is also future-ready for whatever lies ahead.

Automatic path selection based on real-time conditions

Imagine your network as a dynamic highway system, always finding the best route. In a traditional setup, you would be stuck with fixed routes, much like toll roads. Instead, SD-WAN ditches those limitations. It’s like having a GPS that constantly reroutes you to avoid traffic jams, ensuring a smoother journey every time.

For example, let’s say your branch in Denver relies heavily on video conferencing. If the main path suddenly experiences jitter or packet loss, the automatic path selection springs into action. It seamlessly switches to a backup path with better performance. You don’t have to lift a finger—it’s all done without any manual intervention.

The beauty of this system isn’t just in performance—it’s a boon for cost-efficiency too. Imagine having both MPLS and broadband connections. With automatic path selection, you can prioritize critical applications on MPLS for reliability while sending less critical traffic over cheaper broadband. 

Let’s say a massive file transfer starts clogging up the MPLS link. The SD-WAN instantly diverts non-essential traffic to broadband, much like rerouting delivery trucks onto less congested roads.

Managing this flexibility is a breeze with the centralized dashboard. You set policies that automatically determine how paths are selected based on application needs and network performance. This automation means you can focus on more strategic initiatives instead of micromanaging traffic.

As your business expands and new branches come online, the SD-WAN adapts seamlessly. Each new location automatically uses the most efficient paths available, without the hassle of complex configuration. It’s like adding extra lanes to a busy highway, ensuring everything keeps flowing smoothly no matter how much traffic increases. This capability ensures your network is ready for today’s demands and is perfectly poised for the future.

Load balancing across multiple connections

Think of this as having several roads available for your daily commute. Instead of just one route, you can switch between paths to dodge traffic and reach your destination faster.

For instance, imagine you have a branch in Atlanta with multiple internet connections—say, a mix of fiber, DSL, and LTE. Load balancing lets the SD-WAN distribute network traffic across these connections smartly. 

If you are running a cloud application that's resource-heavy, the system spreads out the data load to ensure no single connection gets overwhelmed. 

This capability really shines when there's a sudden spike in usage. Suppose there’s a big marketing push that drives up the branch’s online transactions. The SD-WAN monitors the load in real-time. It shifts excess traffic from a busier fiber link to the less congested DSL or LTE connections, maintaining performance without a hitch.

Even during routine days, load balancing keeps things efficient. Let's say the Chicago office runs daily video conferences and file backups. The SD-WAN can allocate video traffic to the low-latency fiber connection, while file backups take a back seat on the DSL line. This prioritization ensures that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need while optimizing the use of available resources.

Managing this with the centralized interface makes life easier. You can set rules that determine how traffic should be balanced based on real-time conditions and application needs. The system takes care of adjustments on the fly, so you can focus on strategic goals instead of worrying about balancing acts.

How to choose the right SD-WAN solution

Assess your business needs

Are you facing challenges with your current WAN circuits? 

For example, consolidating internet circuits across sites can reduce operational overhead and make management easier. If you are often struggling with outdated connections or high costs, this step alone can be a game-changer.

User experience is another major consideration. Is it crucial for you to improve access to off-site applications? 

If so, SD-WAN can provide significant benefits. It offers direct cloud access and site-to-site connectivity, which can lead to more cost-effective bandwidth and better network resilience. This capability ensures your team experiences fast and reliable connections to vital resources, similar to having a seamless highway route to work.

Cost efficiency should be at the forefront of any decision-making process. If reducing or avoiding costs is a priority, SD-WAN can help achieve this. 

For instance, deploying SD-WAN during a circuit refresh allows you to lower MPLS circuit sizes or renegotiate contracts for better rates. This strategic move can result in substantial savings.

Simplifying the complexity of your network is another essential goal. SD-WAN solutions can simplify complex network configurations through graphical interfaces and policy templates, offering a more straightforward approach to managing remote branches. This technology can offload a sizable operational burden from your IT team, freeing them up to focus on more strategic projects.

Security cannot be an afterthought. While SD-WAN products often come with built-in security features, they may not replace a robust firewall. It's crucial to explore secure access service edge (SASE) architecture, which integrates sophisticated WAN technology with advanced cloud-delivered security. This can provide the enhanced protection you need for your network.

By aligning your SD-WAN choice with these specific business needs, you can make sure your network not only supports but enhances your organization's operations.

Understand your specific network requirements

Start by examining your current infrastructure. Are you dealing with legacy systems that struggle to keep up with modern demands? 

For example, if your existing network relies heavily on MPLS circuits, it might be time to incorporate broadband and LTE options. This would give you the flexibility to adapt to any immediate connectivity needs without being tied to one type of connection.

Another key aspect is bandwidth. Ensure your network can handle the load, especially for data-intensive applications. During peak hours, traffic can get heavy, much like rush hour on a freeway. 

By using SD-WAN to aggregate different types of connections, you ensure there’s always enough bandwidth available. This is crucial when everyone suddenly jumps into a video conference, and you can't afford any hiccups.

Again, don’t neglect security. Think of each branch office and remote worker as individual access points that need protection. With SD-WAN, it's not just about connecting sites; it’s about doing so securely. 

The SD-WAN solution must integrate security protocols seamlessly, like having invisible walls protecting each data packet across the network. This way, you know your sensitive information isn’t just flowing freely without safeguards.

Also, focus on latency-sensitive applications. If your team relies on real-time data processing or interactive tools, any delay can be a major disruption. SD-WAN should have the capability to prioritize critical traffic, ensuring these applications get through quickly.

Cloud connectivity is another consideration. Many of our tools and services live in the cloud now. Your SD-WAN solution must provide direct and efficient access to these services. This minimizes latency and ensures our teams can work with cloud-based resources seamlessly as if they were sitting on a local server.

Finally, look at management requirements. A centralized control system for your network is a must-have. It allows you to oversee everything from a single location, much like a traffic controller. 

With SD-WAN, you expect a straightforward interface that makes managing policies, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting issues simpler. This capability is like having a dashboard where you can tweak settings and see the impact instantly. 

Overall, these specific network requirements must align with any SD-WAN solution you consider, ensuring your network runs efficiently and supports your evolving business needs.

Consider company size and growth potential

Consider the size of your company and your growth projections. If you are a small startup on the cusp of rapid growth, scalability becomes crucial. You need a solution that can quickly accommodate new branches or an influx of remote workers. 

For instance, if you suddenly open a satellite office, you want zero-touch deployment to effortlessly integrate new connections into your network. This saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on expansion instead of technical hurdles.

For a medium-sized business, your focus might be on optimizing existing resources. With SD-WAN, you can intelligently manage traffic to make the most of your bandwidth. Think of it as rearranging furniture in a room to create more space without adding square footage. 

For example, if your sales team needs uninterrupted video calls with clients, the SD-WAN can prioritize this traffic even during busy periods. It ensures the team maintains a professional presence without technical glitches, improving client relations and potentially increasing sales.

In larger enterprises, the challenge often lies in handling vast, complex networks. Here, centralized management is again indispensable. Picture it as a control tower overseeing hundreds of flights. You can manage every connection and policy from one dashboard, making it easier to maintain consistency across locations. 

Let's say you introduce a new security protocol – with SD-WAN, it’s instantly applied across all sites. This uniformity is vital for maintaining your security posture and compliance, especially in industries with stringent regulations.

The growth potential of the company also influences your choice. If you are planning to double your workforce over the next few years, you must ensure your network can handle the increased demand. With SD-WAN, you can easily scale operations without worrying about infrastructure bottlenecks. 

This flexibility not only supports your growth ambitions but also provides a competitive edge in staying nimble and responsive to business needs.

Overall, understanding the company size and growth trajectory helps you pick an SD-WAN solution that's fit for the task. It ensures you have the infrastructure to back up your ambitions, whether you are a startup, a growing business, or an established enterprise.

Evaluate vendors and their offerings

Look for vendors who offer a seamless integration with your existing infrastructure. Opt for a vendor who provides a robust solution that blends well with your current systems. This is crucial. 

You don't want to rip out what's already in place. Instead, aim for a solution that complements what you have, making any transition as painless as possible. Another important factor is the ease of deployment. This feature can save you a lot of time and trouble, especially when scaling up operations.

Support is non-negotiable. You want vendors with a solid reputation for customer service post-deployment. Choose a company known for its responsive support team, which gives you peace of mind. You know that if anything goes wrong, help is just a call away. 

Check if the vendor provides training resources. This is important for getting the team on board with new systems and ensuring a smooth transition.

Security features offered by the vendor are another key point to add to your checklist. Look for those with next-generation firewalls and integrated VPNs. The vendor must offer strong security capabilities. This ensures your data remains secure as it travels across various networks. 

With cyber threats continuously evolving, you need a solution that stays ahead of potential vulnerabilities. It’s like having a security system that updates itself automatically to fend off new threats.

Pricing models can make or break a deal. Choose vendors who offer flexible pricing plans that align with your budget. Opt for companies with scalable plans, allowing you to pay for only what you need as you grow. This flexibility is akin to having a gym membership where you pay for the services you actually use, rather than a flat fee for facilities you never touch.

Lastly, a vendor that stands out for its strong analytic tools is generally preferable. The insights the tools provide are invaluable for planning and optimizing network traffic.

Comparing features and pricing

Start by looking at what each vendor uniquely offers. One company, for example, might impress with its advanced analytics. The ability to integrate smoothly with various cloud platforms makes such an option a good fit for complex networks.

Another SD-WAN solution might stand out for its emphasis on cloud integration and ease of deployment. That simplifies management, which is appealing, especially for businesses scaling quickly. You want a solution that won't bog you down with complexity. 

Pricing models differ substantially among these vendors. Some use a licensing model that scales with features and enterprise needs. This flexibility allows businesses to pay for what they use. Others might offer tiered pricing, which is attractive for companies wanting to start small and scale as needed. 

Some companies use volume-based and feature-based pricing. This is suitable for organizations that need robust security but want to control costs tightly. It’s reassuring that most vendors provide a pricing structure that can be tailored to specific business needs. It's like choosing a mobile plan that suits your call and data usage.

These differences show that SD-WAN is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Evaluating the features and pricing from different vendors allows you to pick the best match for specific business needs. It’s about finding that sweet spot where technology and budget intersect optimally.

Examine customer support and service level agreements

Customer support and service level agreements (SLAs) must be top of your list. It's vital to know that help is available when things go sideways. 

Choose a vendor that offers 24/7 customer support with highly trained specialists. This level of service gives you confidence that you can reach out at any time and expect a swift response.

Also choose a vendor who commits to high network availability. In many businesses, every second counts. Knowing there's a formal commitment to keep the network up and running is reassuring. It's akin to booking a flight with a guarantee that delays are a rare exception.

Some companies promise a proactive approach to customer support. They offer predictive analytics to detect potential issues before they become significant problems. This feature is invaluable. It means fewer disruptions and a smoother experience overall.

Some go a step further by offering training resources. This helps your team stay up to date with their systems. Having well-informed staff is half the battle. It’s like having a roadmap when traveling a new path, reducing the chances of getting lost.

In examining SLAs, also focus on how vendors detail their response times and compensation policies. You want your vendor’s SLAs to be transparent about what happens if they don't meet promised service levels. This clarity is important. It sets expectations and ensures accountability. 

Deployment considerations

First, assess the readiness of your current network infrastructure. It's crucial to understand how SD-WAN will integrate with your existing systems. 

Take, for example, a company with a mix of old MPLS circuits and newer broadband connections. You must evaluate how these will work together under a unified SD-WAN platform. It's like upgrading from an old dial-up to fiber optics—compatibility is key.

Next, look at deployment complexity. Some solutions offer zero-touch provisioning, which simplifies bringing new sites online. This feature is a lifesaver when opening new offices or branches. You can set up a remote location and have all network configurations automatically applied without manual intervention.

Bandwidth management is another critical component. SD-WAN allows you to balance loads across various connections, optimizing the use of each available line. By understanding your typical bandwidth usage and peak times, you can ensure critical applications remain fast and reliable.

Security is something you should never compromise on. Deploying SD-WAN requires a robust plan to integrate security measures across all access points. This includes using features like next-gen firewalls and VPNs. 

For instance, as each branch connects directly to the internet, you ensure you have the capability to monitor and protect these gateways, similar to securing entry points at a high-security facility.

You should also consider the user experience during deployment. A smooth transition is essential to minimize disruption. By running pilot tests, you can identify potential issues before full-scale implementation. This process instills confidence that the full deployment will run flawlessly.

Integrate with existing infrastructure

Start by examining your current setup. For instance, if you are working with a mix of MPLS circuits and newer broadband connections, you must ensure these components can coexist seamlessly. 

The goal is to harness the flexibility of SD-WAN without disrupting the solid foundation we already have. It's similar to renovating a house; you want the new additions to enhance the original structure, not overshadow it.

The beauty of SD-WAN lies in its ability to coexist with various connection types, like MPLS, broadband, and LTE. This means you don't need to overhaul everything. Instead, you can enhance what works well while gradually phasing in improvements. 

For example, if a particular branch is using MPLS but doesn't require the hefty bandwidth for all tasks, you can add broadband for lighter traffic, optimizing costs and performance.

Zero-touch deployment simplifies this integration even further. Imagine setting up a new office location. With SD-WAN, the network configurations are automatically applied upon installation. You don't need to manually intervene, which saves an enormous amount of time.

Security remains a top priority during this integration. Each branch office and remote location connecting directly to the internet brings unique security challenges. By embedding next-gen firewalls and VPNs within the SD-WAN architecture, you ensure robust protection across all points. 

The centralized management console offered by many SD-WAN solutions is another notable benefit. It provides a bird's-eye view of the entire network, simplifying oversight. Whether it's updating security policies or monitoring traffic, you can manage it all from a single dashboard.

Training and support for IT staff

Identify vendors that offer robust training programs, focusing on the practical aspects that will impact your team's performance and your network's efficiency

Cisco, for example, provides comprehensive training like the "Implementing Cisco SD-WAN Solutions" course. This course covers everything from the basics of SD-WAN to advanced deployment strategies. It’s like having a map that guides you from the origins of SD-WAN technology to fine-tuning its application in your network environment.

Cisco offers these courses in different formats, such as e-learning and classroom settings. This flexibility allows your team to choose what works best for their schedules and learning preferences. 

For instance, virtual classes are perfect for those who thrive in a structured environment, while the e-learning path suits those who prefer to learn at their own pace. It's like choosing between a guided tour and exploring a new city on your own.

Support is just as important as training. You must ensure that there’s a safety net for your team when they encounter issues. 24/7 support is invaluable here. Knowing there’s always someone to help resolve issues quickly is a relief. 

Through these training and support systems, your team not only learns to implement and manage SD-WAN solutions effectively but also stays prepared for future technological shifts. This approach empowers your IT staff to confidently handle your network's demands, aligning perfectly with your business goals and growth strategies.

How Netmaker Helps You Leverage SD-WAN Solutions

Netmaker enhances network management by providing a robust platform for creating and managing virtual overlay networks, crucial for businesses leveraging SD-WAN solutions. With features like the Egress Gateway, Netmaker allows seamless access to external networks, optimizing transport independence by supporting various connection types such as MPLS, broadband, and LTE. This is akin to SD-WAN's transport independence, allowing for cost savings and improved efficiency. 

Netmaker's ability to create site-to-site mesh VPNs ensures that network resources at different sites can communicate securely without requiring a software client on every machine, thus simplifying network management and reducing complexity.

Security remains a high priority, and Netmaker addresses this with integrated access control lists (ACLs) and remote access gateways. These features enable secure, end-to-end connections, similar to SD-WAN's security capabilities. By utilizing Netmaker's robust user management and OAuth integration, businesses can ensure secure access to their networks, aligning with the need for centralized management and enhanced security as demanded by modern SD-WAN solutions. 

Sign up here to start leveraging Netmaker's capabilities for enhanced network management.