The internet is everywhere and nearly everyone is connected to it. Businesses have choices with providers and networks, but do you know exactly what you’re using?
LAN and WAN are the are the two network types. LAN, or local-area network, is a computer network that connects a relatively small network. Typically LANs use wired or wireless connections to link computers to nearby devices, such as printers, and IOT
Wide Area Networks (WAN) span a broader geographical area and typically consists of two or more LANS. WAN is used to connect networks between cities, states and even countries.
Software-Defined (SDN) Wide Area Networks (SD-WAN) take regular WAN and simplifies the management and operation while exemplifying the speed and security to save your business time and money.
An Intro to SD-WAN
SD-WAN is a virtual WAN architecture that leverages any combination of transport services, to securely connect users to applications. In other words, it automatically connects users to the most efficient route between branch offices and cloud data centers.
SD-WAN networks are managed by centralized controllers so IT staff can program the network remotely to minimize or eliminate the need to send engineers to branch locations. Centralizing the configuration of everything also can reduce the WAN operating expenses.
SD-WAN allows users to keep their WAN network functioning smoothly as well. It works by simplifying the underlying connections, such as multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), internet broadband, fiber, and long term evolution (LTE). By doing this, SD-WAN allows for real-time traffic management over these connections.
There are two types of SD-WAN: overlay or network as a service. Overlay SD-WAN is where a vendor provides the technology to run the network. You simply have to plug your existing WAN links into the provided device. This method is more commonly used.
If you choose network as a service, SD-WAN functionalities are incorporated into your private network. This includes traffic prioritization and WAN optimization methods.
WAN vs. SD-WAN
Although SD-WAN connects to your WAN network, there are noticeable differences between the two services.
While WAN can support your needs, it is not created to enhance your specific internet experience. WAN is used to connect users to applications hosted on servers in a data center. This system is becoming outdated as the cloud becomes more mainstream.
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the internet.
To connect to your home or business, WAN first needs to connect the branch office to the WAN routers. The routers are then connected to either DSL, Fiber and LTE networks, and finally to your WAN router.
SD-WAN takes your WAN network into the modern technical era. It enhances the connection to DSL, Fibre and LTE by immediately connected your SD-WAN router to the branch office via the centralized controller.
SD-WAN is an upgraded WAN that provides faster speeds, traffic optimization that fits your needs, and more secure networks. It’s that simple.
Is SD-WAN for me?
Are you still working with slow internet despite troubleshooting and calling your network provider? Speed is hindered by many things, including security issues and congestion within your network, or it may have nothing to do with your internet service at all.
If your slow internet speeds are impacting your employee’s productivity, it may be time for an upgrade. SD-WAN targets all three of those speed hindering issues to ensure you are getting the fastest speeds possible without you needing to change your network.
If security is your primary concern, then you’re in luck. Our SD-WAN has application-based firewalls, intrusion prevention, URL filtering and more. All of the features can be managed and configured to match your needs from the central management platform.
Are you a cloud user? SD-WAN can transport data directing from your computer to cloud-based applications. It also offers support for cloud-first strategies, as SD-WAN was created with the specific demands of cloud computing in mind.
For a speedy connection, SD-WAN acts like a bulldozer that makes a path specifically for your network through a highway of users. This works by SD-WAN choosing to slow down another application, such as sending an email, that won’t interfere with your current activity. This means your conference call won’t be interrupted if the rest of your office decides to stream music and videos and they won’t be interrupted by your call. It ensures the important lanes are prioritized and bottleneck free.
Conclusion
If you’re tired of slow connections or are worried about online security, it’s time for you to make the switch. SimpleWAN offers SD-WAN 2.0 for next-level network optimization. We make it was to upgrade. Contact us today to see how we can improve your business with our plug and play automated provisioning, intelligent cyber protection auto-updates, remote management and more.
