Let’s start from the beginning - software-defined networking (SDN) was conceptualised in 2009 at Stanford University, as a way of reimagining what connectivity methodology, operation and infrastructure looks like for this digital age.

This software defined model breaks free from rigid systems that are difficult to manage, maintain and upgrade, and instead enables a flexible, intelligent and future-proof infrastructure. SDN encompasses all network technologies, including functional separation, network virtualisation and enhanced network automation and programmability. SDN has enabled both enterprise and service providers to reimagine how networks are designed and used. Traditional enterprise network architecture and security design models are being replaced with more flexible, software-defined network perimeters providing secure access to enterprise data and services where ever they are located. 

SD-WAN therefore, was born out of this SDN model, and is a key element to the new SDN 'world'. 

It is a whole new WAN architecture, where the an enterprise network is no longer defined by physical hardware/  device based boundaries.

SD-WAN is a cloud-delivered overlay that enables application-aware routing. This intelligent overlay is programmed to optimise the network based on your business intent, so you no longer need someone to re-route traffic when the bandwidth is stretched, the SD-WAN will find the best path based on each application’s needs/ your business requirements.

It measures real-time latency. so if your prioritised applications take the most optimal routes at any given time.

Because the WAN routes traffic based on what the application requires and not what the legacy infrastructure designed, this allows your organisation to adopt more cloud services. Your network will no longer pass users through your DC into the internet, it will go straight to the source. And because it still has end-to-end encryption, your information is secure.

With most WAN traffic destined to the cloud, there’s a chasm developing between what existing wide area networks can deliver, and what the business actually needs. As new applications emerge, whether hosted on-premise or in the cloud, demands on WAN throughput, efficiency and reliability increase. Traditional wide area network architectures weren’t created to support these new digital ecosystems, so instead of accelerating the adoption of bandwidth-heavy applications, some WANs are preventing the business from moving forward at pace.

Step 1 - Discovery

Asses your network traffic to understand:

• What traffic is running across your network?

• What bandwidth is being used?

• What applications are running on your network?

• Where are your applications located? Are they Saas, data centre or Iaas?

Step 2 - Define

Scope your security requirements and decide whether want edge security at the user device, SD-WAN device or Firewall.

Step 3 - Evaluate

Evaluate your current infrastructure to:

• What elements can be reused or repurposed?

• What current contracts are in place? And how long do they have left?

• What service providers are you using and can they provide the SD-WAN solution you need?

Step 4 - Select

Find the right partner for your organisation, solution and goals. 

Step 5 - Deploy

Work with your technology partner to implement your new solution.

Oh, and

Step 6 - Enjoy!

Now you can enjoy a centrally managed, intelligent routing network overlay, delivering flexibility and bringing the network closer than ever to business intent and traffic flow requirements.