SD-WAN Simplified: Using SD-WAN to Reduce Network Costs

Author: Anonym/Tuesday, March 26, 2019/Categories: Data Services

If your business relies on multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) to route network traffic efficiently, you may be able to significantly reduce your network costs by implementing software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN.) But, that doesn’t mean you need to completely replace your existing network infrastructure.

In fact, most organizations that choose to implement SD-WAN opt for a hybrid SD-WAN and MPLS solution, keeping some MPLS connections. And they still reduce their network costs, up to 40 percent in some cases! 

SD-WAN Basics and Benefits

SD-WAN is simply a different way of managing your network, through software rather than through hardware-based networking. Using software and internet connectivity, SD-WAN can connect offices or data centers in different geographies.

Here are some of the ways SD-WAN can reduce costs for your organization:

  • Scalability. When you choose SD-WAN, there’s no need to continuously upgrade your IT bandwidth to ensure a reliable connection. It’s a scalable solution, so you can easily add new links without having to change the underlying infrastructure.
  • Security. SD-WAN can make your network more secure through end-to-end encryption, as well as device and endpoint authentication. This is a great first step toward a more secure network. When partnered with an add-on security solution, SD-WAN can ultimately save your organization from costly information security issues.
  • Performance. SD-WAN is designed to route your network traffic through the fastest available connection. With traditional MPLS, this doesn’t happen. Instead, settings are static. There may be a “failover” connection with an MPLS-based network, but that redundancy usually isn’t as fast or seamless as with SD-WAN.
  • Visibility. Organizations that implement SD-WAN have improved visibility into network traffic. Network administrators can see when SD-WAN re-routes network traffic and react as needed to optimize performance.
  • Rapid Deployment. Rather than waiting days or weeks for your provider to configure and set up a new MPLS connection for a new office, SD-WAN and network bandwidth can be deployed quickly without sending IT personnel to the new office to set it up.
  • Configuration. SD-WAN can be comprised of any combination of 3G/4G LTE, MPLS, Internet, or Ethernet,. This allows for both fast installation and increased bandwidth options. Your business can save money by using all available resources, including inexpensive internet services. When you opt for this type of configuration, the SD-WAN dynamically selects cost-effective connection and links to route traffic.
  • Integration of Other Services. SD-WAN allows for easy and budget-conscious integration of other services, such as voice and security.
  • Indirect Cost Savings. In addition to reductions in direct network costs, SD-WAN can also provide your business with indirect cost savings in the form of increased productivity, flexibility, powerful analytics, and other management tools.

Comparing SD-WAN to MPLS

MPLS has long been a popular way for businesses to achieve connectivity between offices in different locations. However, there are some limitations with MPLS that can be addressed through SD-WAN.

Traditional MPLS transmits all data to a centralized data center, using pre-defined network paths. The cost of MPLS increases as you add new offices or services. In contrast, SD-WAN is more budget-friendly to implement and scale. While MPLS is provider-specific and you need the same provider for all locations, that’s not the case with SD-WAN.

The good news is that it doesn’t need to be an either/or decision. If you already have an MPLS network, you can still realize the benefits of adding SD-WAN.

Find Out How Your Organization Could Reduce Its Network Costs with SD-WAN

Consolidated Communications works with organizations of all sizes to help them implement networking solutions designed to meet their needs, reduce costs, and improve visibility and performance.

To learn more and to explore SD-WAN in more detail, contact us today.

Source

https://www.gomindsight.com/blog/immediate-cost-savings-case-sd-wan-technology/

https://www.networkworld.com/article/3269022/catching-the-sd-wan-wave-the-cost-savings-hype-and-mpls-misconceptions-need-more-explanation.html

https://www.it1.com/2017/08/01/sd-wan-vs-mpls/

https://www.networkworld.com/article/3226371/is-sd-wan-better-than-mpls.html

https://www.sdxcentral.com/networking/sd-wan/definitions/​sd-wan-vs-mpls-pros-cons-technologies/

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/enterprise-networks/sd-wan/what-is-sd-wan.html

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