Software-defined wide-area networks (SD-WANs) are emerging as an alternative to multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) and other networks.
Corporate network infrastructure has grown to include connected computers and hardware that transmit and receive data. Data-driven organizations must ensure business-critical information and services are securely accessible.
SD-WANs use software to link an enterprise’s distributed physical locations and connected assets with its data center.
Wired MPLS has been an enterprise networking workhorse. However, it is expensive and struggles to keep up with evolving, mission-critical cloud-based and SaaS applications. Wireless broadband advancements and 5G capabilities create new possibilities for increased transmission speeds. They improve transmission quality without the high cost of MPLS-based private networks.
Private LTE ― dedicated wireless networks that can evolve to 5G ― provides enterprises expanded coverage and flexibility. These networks are appropriate for IoT applications in specific industries (e.g., manufacturing and mining). With 5G, these networks will have greater speed and transmission and provide more security and control.
SD-WAN solutions connect physical locations and remote areas through customized bandwidth and connectivity. Enhanced security and network-wide encryption protect your data. Zero-trust network capabilities shield your network from cyberattacks.
Enhanced visibility and control enable SD-WAN to accelerate enterprise connectivity and reduce outages while lowering costs. Higher performance and lower costs ensure customer expectations are met.
5G technology combines with existing SD-WAN frameworks to achieve transmission speeds and performance to benefit the enterprise. Your business will gain a competitive advantage and reduced deployment costs.
Why SD-WAN over MPLS?
Enterprises have relied on MPLS to access mission-critical applications and business management systems in private data centers. However, the move to cloud-based systems and increased demand on network capacity are straining private enterprise networks. Private networks are becoming untenable due to escalating costs and slowness in implementing network upgrades.
SD-WANs present a promising alternative to private networks. They provide global enterprises with MPLS-grade, software-defined private networks that are implemented easily through local ISPs.
Organizations can take advantage of SD-WAN connectivity options and maintain control over their on-campus network. They can ensure that data flows where and when it is needed securely.
Speak with our corporate network IoT experts to get assistance with your IoT-enabled corporate networking solution.