In recent years, SD-WAN technology has changed the way networks are secured professionally. Similarly, it has transformed the way connectivity is managed and optimized. As more and more companies implement cloud applications, SD-WAN technology is becoming increasingly necessary. So, what does it have to do with network monitoring? Check out the explanation below.
What is SD-WAN?
SD-WAN stands for Software-Defined Wide Area Network. SD-WAN implements software to manage services between cloud resources, data centers, and offices securely and effectively. This is done by separating the data plane and the control plane. The deployment process often includes vCPE (virtual Customer Premise Equipment) and existing switches and routers.
The SW-WAN software runs the software that controls most management functions, such as networking, policies, and security. Until now, WAN has been the best method for connecting users to applications on data center servers. This usually includes Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) circuits for secure connections.
However, MPLS is no longer sufficient to handle large amounts of data and work in the cloud. The backhaul from branch offices to the company’s headquarters disrupts network performance. With SD-WAN, companies can now more easily provide an exceptional network experience with less operational responsibility for IT staff.
How SD-WAN Works
SD-WAN uses communication tunnels, network encryption, and software firewalls to manage and secure computer networks across multiple locations. SD-WAN can differentiate and separate network hardware from central control and simplify cooperation. Businesses that use SD-WAN can achieve higher WAN performance by using the internet instead of MPLS.
Traffic flows through specific SD-WAN devices, with each device controlled and managed centrally. This allows for the implementation of consistent policies. SD-WAN can identify each application traffic and can direct each to the correct destination. This machine learning-based capability allows the software to base destination routes on the applicable policies.
SD-WAN is designed to work efficiently, and this solution generally offers greater bandwidth efficiency, improved application performance, and easy access to the cloud. Users can enjoy all these benefits without sacrificing data privacy or security. This can certainly enhance customer satisfaction and business productivity.
The Benefits of SD-WAN in Network Monitoring
SD-WAN is capable of offering solutions to various challenges that may be encountered when using traditional WAN, especially amidst the increasing use of the cloud. There are many benefits of SD-WAN in network monitoring, including:
1. Better Flexibility
Although MPLS is good at routing traffic when there are only a few static locations, it is certainly less effective when running a business in the cloud. Policy-based routing is the key to the agility and flexibility of SD-WAN. Traffic is sent through the network with a focus on needs based on core applications.
Enterprise networks can use several different transport structures in the WAN. SD-WAN provides predictable agility while supporting cloud migration. This flexibility includes the ability to use various connections interchangeably, including MPLS, LTE, and broadband connections.
2. Increased Efficiency
Sending traffic from remote offices to the main data hub can cause delays. SD-WAN can effectively connect the use of applications and cloud containers that require edge access, as well as the need to implement SD-WAN technology. Cloud resources can be easily connected to data hubs properly and cost-effectively.
The above method allows private data centers to grow while companies can still efficiently expand the use of public cloud services. There is also a reduction in latency issues, which means application performance improves.
3. Enhanced Security
SD-WAN allows for scalable security specifications for individual customers. Companies can set up secure zones to guide traffic based on the company’s business policies. In this way, the company can protect important assets with specific partitions while using a firewall as part of the security process.
The company can create partitioned areas based on specific roles or identities. The company can also monitor network connections, enable deep packet inspection, add data encryption, and log all security events.
4. More Cost-Effective
Backhaul
