Overview
In this webinar, a panel of experts from PTP and Avant discussed Software Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN), its impact on business operations, and the potential benefits and challenges of transitioning to this technology. The conversation explored key aspects of SD-WAN, shared insights from real-world implementations, and offered guidance on avoiding common pitfalls.
The Evolution of WAN and the Emergence of SD-WAN
The panelists shared their experiences with Wide Area Networks (WAN) and how the technology has evolved over time. Mike McElaney from PTP, who started in 1996, recounted the dramatic changes in WAN technologies, from T1 lines to MPLS, and the more recent shift towards SD-WAN. He noted that the cost of connectivity has significantly decreased over the years, with SD-WAN providing a more flexible and cost-effective solution for modern networks.
John Hudson, also from PTP, described how the shift from frame relay to MPLS enabled more meshed architectures, allowing for voice and video communications. However, with applications moving to the cloud, the traditional closed-network approach of MPLS became less effective, leading to the rise of SD-WAN. Niko O’Hara from Avant highlighted the challenges of navigating the crowded SD-WAN market, with over 25 different vendors in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant.
The Value Proposition of SD-WAN
The panelists discussed the key benefits of SD-WAN, focusing on its flexibility, cost savings, and improved network performance. Mike shared a case study of a business services organization with 280 locations, where SD-WAN helped them reduce their monthly connectivity costs by almost $250,000. By replacing a secondary MPLS network with dedicated internet access (DIA), the company achieved significant cost savings while maintaining reliable connectivity.
John emphasized the importance of understanding the specific needs of a business when considering SD-WAN. He mentioned that some companies may require a more robust MPLS-based solution due to security or compliance requirements, while others could benefit from the flexibility and cost savings of SD-WAN.
Security Considerations with SD-WAN
Security is a critical aspect of SD-WAN, and the panelists discussed various approaches to ensure network security. John mentioned that most SD-WAN solutions use IPsec encryption with Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificates to secure traffic. However, additional security measures may be needed to address malware and other threats. Niko noted that different SD-WAN solutions offer varying levels of security, with some providing built-in firewalls and others requiring additional security solutions like Palo Alto or Zscaler.
The panelists agreed that understanding the security posture of an organization is crucial when designing an SD-WAN solution. Companies with a strong existing security infrastructure may choose to integrate it with SD-WAN, while others might opt for more comprehensive security solutions from the SD-WAN vendor.
Lessons Learned and Avoiding Common Pitfalls
The panelists shared lessons learned from SD-WAN implementations and discussed common pitfalls to avoid. One of the key points was the importance of understanding the business’s specific needs and applications before implementing SD-WAN. Implementations can fail if customers don’t understand the technical requirements or if they try to manage multiple carriers without proper support.
Niko highlighted that it’s essential to identify the right drivers for moving to SD-WAN and avoid over-engineering the solution. He shared an example where a customer with high-bandwidth primary circuits and lower-bandwidth backup circuits didn’t need an active-active SD-Wan solution but instead needed a simple failover mechanism.
The panelists also discussed the need for proper planning and collaboration between different teams. Mike emphasized that SD-WAN is a collaborative effort, requiring input from various stakeholders, including IT, networking, and security teams. He mentioned that working with experienced partners can help ensure a successful implementation and avoid potential landmines.
Conclusion
The panelists concluded by reiterating the benefits of SD-WAN, including cost savings, improved performance, and enhanced flexibility. They encouraged organizations considering SD-WAN to work with experienced partners to design a solution that meets their specific needs and to be mindful of security considerations. By understanding their business requirements and collaborating with the right experts, companies can successfully implement SD-WAN and enjoy the advantages it offers.
Overall, the webinar provided valuable insights into SD-WAN technology, practical advice for businesses considering a transition, and a glimpse into the future of networking. The panelists’ experiences and case studies illustrated the transformative potential of SD-WAN and its role in supporting modern business operations.
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