Software Defined Wide Area Networks

We’ve discussed the benefits of Software Defined WANs in previous posts. In this post we will cut through the jargon. We’ll focus on exactly what an SD-WAN is so business owners and decision makers can truly understand why it’s important. 

In light of Covid-19, the need for businesses to begin their digital transformation has never been greater. However, the journey to business agility through digital transformation can be complex. Additionally, the information for Small Business owners to understand the technology is few and far between. Business owners are under great strain right now. We understand that. That’s why our SD-WAN offerings are simple, and form part of an overall digital transformation strategy. If you’re looking to enable remote working, improve efficiencies, improve security and have a greater control over costs, then read on. 

An SD-WAN replaces security devices on a network. One SD-WAN device is installed in each location, and from a single internet browser, your administrator can see all locations, internet connections and devices on the entire network. He or she can also access this from home, or if you use a network service provider such as Timico, you can grant them access with just a few clicks. 

However, the benefits of a Software Defined WAN do not stop there. 

Visibility 

A Software Defined WAN solution provides administrators with total visibility over application performance, network bandwidth and security. As a result, administrators can prioritise applications such as voice and video, or even business critical applications to ensure the business runs smoothly. The control allows a business to maximise the potential of its internet connection, therefore improving the efficiency of the employees. 

Visibility over security is crucial. Legacy security solutions did not have the power or intelligence to consolidate security assets. An organisation had firewalls, routers, internet filters and more.  Tracing an attack or a threat was a nightmare for administrators. A software defined WAN, such as Fortinet or Cisco Meraki, houses all the security assets in one device per location. It is a perfect example of how simplified networking does not have to come at the cost of reduced security or functionality. 

Security 

The biggest threat to an organisation’s network is the users. The visibility an SD-WAN provides, allows administrators to isolate an offending device, preventing further infection or risk. A task which, historically, would have been resource intensive and a huge disruption to a business. With SD-WAN offerings now extending to home users, you no longer have to push security out to remote staff. The network, with all its security and protection can be extended to teleworkers with ease. 

Additionally, when security updates were released by firewall vendors, an administrator would have had to log onto each firewall, out of hours, and install the software. The task was not without risk and would often involve somebody in each location to assist should the update fail. With both Cisco and Fortinet SD-WAN solutions however, security updates can be rolled out simultaneously, from a single dashboard. 

Flexibility 

Despite many theories, SD-WAN does not result in reduced internet costs in the UK. If an organisation requires a 20Mbps leased line due to applications, staff headcount and network services, an SD-WAN will not reduce that requirement. An SD-WAN will, however, reduce WAN complexity. Here’s how: 

Traditional WANs required static IP addresses in each location. However, more often than not, ADSL connections do not come with static IP addresses. They use what is called a dynamic IP address. The dynamic IP address changes each time the power is cycled on the edge device. For a site-to-site VPN to function, location A would require the IP address of location B, and vice versa. But if one of those locations changed its IP address due to a power cut, a reboot, or any other reason, the VPN connection would fail. The remote site would be segregated until location B told location A what the new IP address was. This was not an effective way to maintain connectivity, but due to high costs of leased lines, this was the only real option for many small businesses. 

An SD-WAN can function over whatever network connection your office has. The VPN between two sites created using SD-WAN does not rely on static IP addresses. This is particularly helpful for businesses with warehouses, pop up stores, even construction site offices where 4G is often only available until a dedicated cable can be installed. SD-WAN devices can extend the security and network access to anywhere with a network connection. Vendors such as Cisco and Fortinet also provide various sized devices that, in these remote working times, are crucial to professional service companies who rely on network access. 

Software Defined WAN in Digital Transformation 

The journey to a digitally transformed business, for many, begins with SaaS solutions such as Office 365. Often, a business will then dip its toes further by moving to a DRaaS (Disaster Recovery as a Service) or BUaaS (Backup as a Service) model. These are logical steps for a business to take. But, moving live data and services to the cloud can be a large step to take. However, by implementing SD-WAN to optimise bandwidth, provide greater visibility and improve security, those steps become measurable, controlled, and part of a greater plan. 

Why Timico?

We are proud of our partnerships with leading technology brands such as Cisco and Fortinet. Our team of specialists are experienced and qualified to deliver the right blend of technologies to help any business on its journey to digital transformation. 

So, if your business is looking for a partner who can lead the way toward business agility, then get in touch with us today for your free consultation.