SD-WAN is a very trendy thing in modern network architecture, and it really makes many companies worry about network transformation and don’t know how to choose. To be honest, SD-WAN is a solution that can integrate the scattered network links under the enterprise, such as broadband, 4G/5G, dedicated lines, etc., and then use software to intelligently manage them, making the network more flexible and more useful. Some people may think this thing sounds unfathomable, but in fact, it involves real points such as how to improve network efficiency, reduce costs, and make management simpler.
Now that enterprises use SD-WAN, they can summarize it into three main aspects: First, they want to make the network more flexible, don’t be so rigid, and can quickly adapt to the changing needs of business; second, they must want to spend less money on the network, and no one wants to throw the money out in vain, right? Third, I hope that network management can save some trouble, and there is no need to arrange for a bunch of people to stare at those cold equipment every day. Provide global procurement services for weak current intelligent products! To achieve these goals, when choosing SD-WAN, you must disassemble the following modules clearly and study them!
1. Link optimization module : The function of this module is to allow different links to cooperate well, and don’t fight~ It will see whether each link is smooth, fast or not, and then divide the data into the most suitable link in real time. For example, if a business like video conferencing that requires particularly high speed requirements, it will give priority to those stable and fast links, while those who are not in a hurry like ordinary file transfer can take cheaper broadband links.
2. Network security module : Although we don’t need to talk too deeply about security, we still need to have the most basic firewall functions, data encryption, etc.; otherwise the data will be lost and peeked by someone, and that will be done. If an enterprise encounters such a thing, it will be more upset.
3. Intelligent management module : This is a good helper to help administrators save trouble! It can clearly display the situation of the entire network on one, and it can be seen at a glance which device has problems or which link is slower. It can also support remote configuration of equipment, without the need for administrators to run to each computer room to operate
There is another point that users are particularly prone to confusion, that is, what is the difference between SDWAN and traditional VPNs? Simply put, traditional VPNs are like opening up a dedicated path from home to company. Although it is safe, the road is thin and you can only walk that path; SD-WAN is like opening up multiple paths at the same time, some are wide, some are narrow, some are fast, and some are slow. It can also automatically choose the most suitable path to walk according to what you want to transport. Doesn’t it sound much more advanced? This is their main difference
Q: Is it necessary for small and micro enterprises to use SD-WAN? A: It depends on the situation! If the company is very small, with only one or two office locations and the network is simple, then there may be no need to spend this money; but if the company has several branches, or often requires employees to work remotely outside and the business is relatively complicated, then when you go to SDWAN, you can clearly feel that the network is much more useful, and in the long run, the savings may be more than the investment.
Q: Which function of SDWAN should be paid attention to when choosing? A: I think the most important thing I need to pay attention to is its intelligent route selection function! If this function does not work and the data always follows those blocked links, the network experience will definitely not be good. If you spend money, you will be angry. It is not worth it.
In my personal opinion, SD-WAN is indeed a very important direction for the future development of corporate networks and can bring many tangible benefits to enterprises. When choosing, companies must not blindly follow the trend. They must listen carefully to their actual needs and find solutions that match functions, cost-effectiveness, and reliable after-sales service. You can’t just listen to which one is better. The one that suits you is the best!
Leave a Reply