SD-WAN
Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) technology creates a virtual network overlay over the physical infrastructure of an enterprise WAN. Explore how SD-WAN works, the benefits and challenges, troubleshooting advice and deployment best practices.
Top Stories
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Conference Coverage
15 May 2025
Cisco Live 2025 conference coverage and analysis
Cisco Live 2025 will largely focus on the need to modernize infrastructure with AI capabilities. Use this guide to follow along with conference news and analysis. Continue Reading
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News
27 Aug 2024
VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN gets satellite support
Satellite connectivity lets Broadcom offer the VeloCloud SD-WAN as an option for linking IoT devices to the global network from environments without reliable internet access. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Apr 2020
What to include in an SD-WAN security checklist
SD-WAN security encompasses more than integrated security functionality. Find out which capabilities enterprises should look for when evaluating SD-WAN and security. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2020
NSX-T 3.0 enriches VMware's hybrid IT offering
VMware's new NSX-T 3.0 brings important tools to customers modernizing data centers for the cloud era. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Apr 2020
How SD-WAN and cloud exchanges benefit multi-cloud settings
As more organizations move IT workloads outside of company walls, SD-WAN services can help ease the shift to cloud environments and secure cloud connections, like cloud exchanges. Continue Reading
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News
01 Apr 2020
CloudGenix-Palo Alto buy combines SD-WAN with cloud security
The CloudGenix-Palo Alto Networks acquisition will combine the Prisma cloud security suite with CloudGenix's software-defined WAN. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2020
How is SD-WAN as a service different from managed SD-WAN?
SD-WAN technology is available in a variety of business models, including SD-WAN as a service and managed SD-WAN. But how do the different consumption models compare? Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2020
Before deploying SD-WAN, assess your underlay network components
If enterprises are to reap the benefits of SD-WAN, they better pay attention to the SD-WAN underlay network. Learn what you should take into consideration. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Mar 2020
What are some of the weaknesses of SD-WAN?
Cost, complexity and interoperability issues with existing network components are some of the weaknesses of SD-WAN that organizations need to consider. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2020
When assessing SD-WAN benefits, don't ignore SD-WAN costs
SD-WAN offers several benefits, but companies also need to understand SD-WAN costs. Organizations need to consider some critical areas -- and not all of them are obvious. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2020
SD-WAN requirements for a multi-cloud world
With the emergence of a multi-cloud world, SD-WAN vendors must upgrade their platforms to ensure secure and reliable SD-WAN connectivity to cloud services. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2020
What to include in a network services agreement
Network teams that create MSP contracts for their managed network services should cover delivery lead times, network performance, adds and changes, network uptime and escalation. Continue Reading
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Answer
31 Jan 2020
What's the difference between SD-branch vs. SD-WAN?
As networking pros evaluate SD-branch vs. SD-WAN, they'll notice a key distinction between the two technologies, namely how network functions are managed and orchestrated. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2020
How SD-WAN changes the network security perimeter
The advent of SD-WAN has changed the network security model by pushing more security and control to the edge -- and businesses need to adjust to this new reality. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2020
3 ways to improve WAN performance with SD-WAN
SD-WAN can improve WAN performance in three ways: It adds a secondary transport for network traffic, while also taking advantage of broadband Ethernet and application acceleration. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Jan 2020
12 questions to ask about SD-WAN managed services
When contemplating SD-WAN managed services, organizations should ask questions about network security, infrastructure compatibility and bandwidth requirements. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jan 2020
VMware acquisition of Nyansa combines LAN, WAN analytics
The VMware acquisition of Nyansa is expected to provide network traffic analytics that cover the SD-WAN and the wired and wireless LAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2020
When to consider managed SD-WAN services for your business
SD-WAN offers promising benefits, like the ability to use multiple ISP links, but managing those links can prove challenging. Managed SD-WAN services can help. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Jan 2020
What's the difference between thin and thick SD-WAN branch offices?
When rolling out software-defined WAN, you'll need to consider the current makeup of your branch offices. For instance, are applications on-site or in the cloud? Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jan 2020
Gartner WAN edge Magic Quadrant offers buying advice
How should businesses buy WAN edge technology? You probably shouldn't rely on vendor name recognition alone. Instead, consider some niche players in the SD-WAN market. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2020
Cradlepoint NetCloud update avoids unnecessary data usage
Cradlepoint Netcloud has new analytics that help companies avoid the cost of exceeding the limits of their data plans for wireless links on the vendor's SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jan 2020
Aruba SD-Branch gets intrusion detection, prevention software
The latest update of the Aruba SD-Branch includes intrusion detection and prevention software built into the product's gateway appliance. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2019
Food manufacturer finds success with SD-WAN vendor CloudGenix
Disappointed in a managed service from Verizon, food manufacturer Diamond Crystal Brands went looking for an SD-WAN vendor that could deliver. It found it in CloudGenix. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Dec 2019
SD-WAN drives managed network services trends for 2020
As network operators offer more SD-WAN managed services in 2020, the managed services market will see some major changes regarding price, feature sets and management. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2019
Aaron's deploys CloudGenix SD-WAN after issues with Meraki
Before Aaron's could improve its real-time network visibility and VoIP performance with CloudGenix SD-WAN, the retailer had to transition from Cisco Meraki. Continue Reading
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News
30 Dec 2019
Cisco 2020: Challenges, prospects shape the new year
Cisco 2020: The networking giant begins the new year with an overhauled service provider business, and SD-WAN and customer challenges in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Dec 2019
SD-WAN vs. DMVPN vs. IPsec tunnels: How do I choose?
Software-defined WAN, DMVPN and IPsec tunnels each have a place among enterprises. Our network expert compares each one and explains where they can be most beneficial. Continue Reading
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News
11 Dec 2019
Silver Peak SD-WAN orchestrator scales to thousands of sites
Silver Peak has launched a cloud-based SD-WAN orchestrator that provides centralized control of multiple Unity Orchestrators deployed in separate locations. Continue Reading
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Quiz
09 Dec 2019
Test your knowledge of SD-WAN deployments and testing
As SD-WAN becomes more mainstream, organizations must learn what to expect during all phases of deployment. Try your knowledge of SD-WAN testing, deployments and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2019
4 SD-WAN vendors integrate with AWS Transit Gateway
Aruba, Cisco, Citrix and Silver Peak are among the first SD-WAN vendors to integrate their products with the AWS Transit Gateway. Continue Reading
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Video
26 Nov 2019
Gauge some of the top SD-WAN pros and cons
This video explains some of the major SD-WAN pros and cons, including improved application performance, security and troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Nov 2019
What SD-WAN devices do I need in an SD-WAN deployment?
Despite the software-centric nature of software-defined WAN, certain SD-WAN devices are still required to help transport traffic and complete network connections. Continue Reading
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News
20 Nov 2019
Juniper Mist roadmap includes SD-WAN, security integrations
The Juniper Mist roadmap includes integrating the wireless LAN's cloud AI engine with Juniper's SD-WAN and malware detection service. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2019
Why Secure Access Service Edge is the future of SD-WAN
Secure Access Service Edge -- or SASE -- architecture transitions from network designs that revolve around the data center to a model based on identity and user context. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Nov 2019
SD-WAN explained in 15 key terms and phrases
This SD-WAN glossary delves into the various capabilities, technologies and components that encompass SD-WAN, explained with 15 concise definitions. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Nov 2019
How can SD-WAN and edge computing services work together?
Organizations may want to consider the effect SD-WAN and edge computing could have when combined. Make sure to consider all options before choosing a combination model, however. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Nov 2019
How realistic are compact SD-WAN appliances compared to VPNs?
The battle between VPN vs. SD-WAN returns. In this clash, see how realistic SD-WAN appliances are for remote and mobile workers compared to VPN connections. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2019
Build an effective SD-WAN security strategy at the branch
Don't deploy SD-WAN without a solid network security strategy. IT teams should address four specific areas to ensure adequate security and protection against network threats. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Oct 2019
Fintech company goes all in on SD-WAN 2.0 with Versa tech
In the age of hybrid and multi-cloud environments, software-defined WAN technology must do more than just connect branch locations to data centers. Enter SD-WAN 2.0. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Oct 2019
What SD-WAN certifications and courses are available?
A few SD-WAN certifications do exist, but they're heavily focused on specific vendors and their respective products. Find out why market-wide certs are unlikely. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Oct 2019
3 SD-WAN best practices before deployment
When planning an SD-WAN deployment, some best practices include evaluating your business model, testing the product and establishing vendor support guidelines. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Oct 2019
SD-WAN deployment in the works? Consider these 3 things
SD-WAN can simplify the deployment and management of new branch WANs, but there are some key configuration and technical choices you must make to get started. Continue Reading
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News
11 Oct 2019
Enterprises choosing SD-WAN routing over edge routers
Revenue from SD-WAN sales surged by 23% in the second quarter as enterprises opted to replace traditional edge routers with SD-WAN routing. Continue Reading
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News
26 Sep 2019
Aryaka hybrid WAN expected to broaden market appeal
The Aryaka hybrid WAN is expected to help the vendor sell more to customers that have found its global SD-WAN too expensive for connecting sites in one geographical location. Continue Reading
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Video
25 Sep 2019
The pros and cons of SD-WAN vs. MPLS
This video discusses the differences between SD-WAN and MPLS and explains why a hybrid WAN architecture -- that uses both technologies -- might be the best fit. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Aug 2019
How SD-WAN security can boost your network security strategy
Many organizations say security is a top priority for their business, but most lack the necessary resources to thoroughly secure their networks and cloud services. SD-WAN could help. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Aug 2019
Gartner Hype Cycle deems software-defined networking obsolete
A Gartner report on enterprise networking has declared the definition of SDN and its architectural approach as deceased. Cause of death? Well, the hype didn't help. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2019
How does SD-WAN analytics monitor network performance?
With SD-WAN analytics, administrators can fine-tune their WAN connections and determine how well their network is performing. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2019
Achieve network perimeter security through deep segmentation
Firewall effectiveness is in deep decline, but there's still a way to create an effective security perimeter through the practice of deep segmentation. Learn how. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Aug 2019
What to expect with SD-WAN management, intent and usability
Users can expect advancements in SD-WAN intent, usability and management, as vendors seek to improve their developer ecosystems, integration and multi-tenancy capabilities. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jul 2019
Cisco partners get digital marketing support
A Cisco marketing program is getting a new look as the vendor refreshes its partner marketing training and rolls out a new comarketing service focused on digital campaigns. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Jul 2019
Which SD-WAN features truly comprise SD-WAN technology?
How do you protect your organization and network against SD-WAN washing? Here are four key SD-WAN features that your system must have in order to be called SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jul 2019
SD-WAN security benefits go beyond the obvious
SD-WAN does more than extend corporate networks. Key SD-WAN security benefits that capitalize on the technique's architecture could change the face of SD-WAN in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jul 2019
IDC: SD-WAN market spend to top $5B in 2023
The latest IDC SD-WAN market report shows the amount companies spend annually on infrastructure will more than triple from 2018 to 2023, when it will reach $5.25 billion. Continue Reading
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News
23 Jul 2019
Verizon, Equinix cooperate on SDI to colo data centers
Verizon is offering a software-defined interconnection to Equinix colo data centers. The Verizon-Equinix service is an alternative to a physical network connection. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jul 2019
SD-WAN market sees continued growth, room for mobile support
The SD-WAN market is growing, thanks to financial firms with distributed deployments. VMware and Cisco continue to lead the vendor pack, with Aryaka and Silver Peak close behind. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jul 2019
AT&T-Microsoft deal secures use of 5G wireless, Azure cloud
The latest AT&T-Microsoft partnership announcement lacked details for buyers of enterprise products and services but gave a big boost to Microsoft's Azure public cloud. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Jul 2019
What does open source SD-WAN look like, and do we need it?
Open source software has an openly available source code that users can adopt or modify. Open source combined with SD-WAN might be a perfect match or a too idealistic goal. Continue Reading
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Guide
28 Jun 2019
How to improve network visibility and regain control
Gaining visibility into the network has never been easy; technology like cloud and IoT makes it even tougher. Learn how to meet such challenges and keep network traffic flowing. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2019
Extreme's Aerohive acquisition closes WLAN product gap
Extreme Networks' Aerohive acquisition would fill a gap in Extreme's WLAN portfolio by adding a cloud-based management option competitive with Cisco and Aruba. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jun 2019
CloudGenix SD-WAN platform open for developers
The CloudGenix SD-WAN is open for developers. The vendor has launched a developer program and tool set for integrating third-party infrastructure software. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jun 2019
Fortinet TCO low, Silver Peak high in NSS Labs SD-WAN report
The latest NSS Labs SD-WAN report gives Fortinet the best ratings for value and total cost of ownership, while Silver Peak gets the worst of eight vendors. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jun 2019
5G and SD-WAN could provide reliable, alternate connectivity
5G and SD-WAN could develop into an alternative connectivity option that offers high speeds and low latency to geographic areas and remote workers with limited connectivity options. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2019
Versa Networks partnership expands Riverbed SD-WAN offerings
Riverbed and Versa Networks teamed up on an OEM agreement that enables Riverbed to use Versa's enterprise-class secure SD-WAN technology. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2019
Cisco AI, machine learning network analytics head to the cloud
The new Cisco AI and machine learning platform, launched at Cisco Live, is a cloud-based network analytics service for the data center, campus and WAN. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jun 2019
Managed SD-WAN providers ranked in new market report
AT&T ranked first in Vertical Systems Group's SD-WAN report that compared more than 30 carrier-managed SD-WAN providers based on market share of installed customer sites. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 May 2019
Managed SD-WAN is a developing part of WAN transformation
Despite SD-WAN's benefits for WAN transformation, enterprises can't avoid the shortcomings. Find out how many organizations address those challenges with managed SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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News
21 May 2019
Riverbed launches SaaS accelerator and updates SD-WAN products
Riverbed's latest update is spearheaded by the launch of its SaaS Accelerator, promising to speed up SaaS apps primarily for enterprise users working remotely. Continue Reading
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News
17 May 2019
Extreme Networks CEO blames China, not Trump, for trade impasse
Extreme Networks CEO Ed Meyercord blames China, not President Donald Trump, for the impasse in trade talks that could force the vendor to raise prices by as much as 10%. Continue Reading
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News
10 May 2019
Cisco AMP for Networks bolsters SD-WAN security
Cisco AMP for Networks is now part of the company's SD-WAN product. Cisco also announced this week that it had open sourced its MindMeld AI development platform. Continue Reading
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News
07 May 2019
New Cisco SD-WAN for enterprises using colos
The new Cisco SD-WAN for co-location facilities is aimed at enterprises that have dozens of branch offices in major cities in multiple countries. Continue Reading
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News
02 May 2019
Dell EMC offering a VeloCloud SD-WAN Edge appliance
The new Dell EMC SD-WAN Edge product includes hardware and support, as well as VMware's VeloCloud software. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Apr 2019
DIY SD-WAN more complex than some vendors admit
Is DIY SD-WAN a do or a don't bother? One expert says it's rarely as simple as vendors suggest -- prompting a growing number of enterprises to enlist third-party support. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Apr 2019
SD-WAN with IoT enables the enhanced network edge
In a world teeming with IoT devices -- and the resulting data -- SD-WAN and SD-branch can provide the security, visibility and connectivity the IoT edge requires. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2019
IT directors share SD-WAN advantages and advice
Enhanced access to internet applications, streamlined network connectivity and faster deployments at new offices are just some common SD-WAN advantages. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2019
Juniper SD-WAN as a service linked to wired, wireless LAN
The new Juniper SD-WAN as a service integrates with the vendor's EX Series wired LAN switches and the Mist wireless LAN. The bundle shows Juniper moving toward an SD-branch offering. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2019
New ASIC bolsters Fortinet SD-WAN performance
Fortinet claims it has given its FortiGate SD-WAN and security appliance a boost. The vendor said a more powerful ASIC improves the performance of key Fortinet SD-WAN features. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2019
A review of SD-branch and its progression from SD-WAN
The goal of software-defined branch is to merge network functions and management into a single platform, but the branch architecture still lacks maturity, despite some early deployments. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Apr 2019
What is the purpose of an SD-WAN gateway?
Software-defined WAN architecture has adapted with the growth of cloud services, resulting in a cloud-based model that uses SD-WAN gateways to handle traffic and control. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Apr 2019
The 3 pillars of SD-WAN QoS and questions to ask your providers
Traffic shaping, path control and forward error correction are three core components of SD-WAN QoS. Here are some crucial questions to ask your vendors regarding those areas. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Mar 2019
How modern WAN edge services can benefit your network
Modern services could replace legacy routers at the network edge. And while individual WANs have different edge requirements, common needs include flexibility and reliability. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Mar 2019
VMware-VeloCloud sees the future of SD-WAN with 5G, hybrid cloud
A glimpse into one software-defined WAN vendor's vision shows a heavy interest in SD-WAN's integration with the network edge, 5G and hybrid cloud. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2019
Infovista-Ipanema SD-WAN gets cloud orchestrator for MSPs
Infovista has added a cloud-based orchestrator to its SD-WAN product. The latest feature in Infovista Ipanema is meant to make the software more attractive to MSPs. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2019
How to strategize for WAN and SD-WAN performance monitoring
The importance of WAN performance monitoring hasn't decreased with the introduction of SD-WAN and other technologies. Enterprises still need to enforce proper monitoring strategies. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Feb 2019
How do SDN protocols compare to those used in SD-WAN?
Traditional SDN controllers use northbound and southbound APIs to communicate. But software-defined WAN controllers don't rely on those same SDN protocols. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Feb 2019
SD-WAN cost savings hinge on underlying WAN technologies
SD-WAN marketing almost always mentions the benefit of cost savings. Cut through the hype and discover how SD-WAN works with MPLS and internet connectivity to drive savings. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Feb 2019
How to assess an SD-WAN product and determine which you need
Two main differentiators have emerged in SD-WAN products. Learn how they work and how an IT manager can use them to assess network performance and diagnose problems. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Feb 2019
SD-WAN vendor lock-in is unavoidable, but not necessarily bad
It's practically impossible to avoid SD-WAN vendor lock-in. But, instead of being deterred by lock-in, companies should focus on wisely locking in the vendor with which they want to partner. Continue Reading
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News
12 Feb 2019
Netsurion intros low-maintenance SD-branch
Netsurion has introduced a software-defined branch product for retailers, hotels and restaurants. The managed SD-branch, called BranchSDO, includes networking and security. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Feb 2019
How SD-WAN architectures improve network flexibility and efficiency
The key benefits of SD-WAN architectures include better network redundancy, efficient MPLS connections and added flexibility to deploy new services remotely. Continue Reading
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News
08 Feb 2019
WAN access focus of Cisco Viptela-DNA Center integration
The first phase of integration between the Cisco Viptela SD-WAN and DNA Center is aimed at providing WAN access from branch offices. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jan 2019
Automation potential outweighs SDN deployment risks
SDN deployment varies among service providers and enterprises due to risks, costs and use cases. But, when it comes to SD-WAN, both groups appear to agree about the potential. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2019
Unity EdgeConnect SD-WAN certified for AWS, Google, Microsoft
Silver Peak's Unity EdgeConnect SD-WAN is certified for AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure. Companies can deploy the product from the cloud providers' marketplaces. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2019
Enterprises iffy on telecom services beyond network connectivity
Enterprises look to telecom carriers for network connectivity services, but providers need to win them over to sell cloud and productivity options, according to network pros. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2019
SD-branch begins to prove itself with growing deployments
Enterprises are beginning to deploy SD-branch and are seeing positive results, pointing to the possibility that the software-defined branch will become the norm for branch networking. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jan 2019
Get into the nitty-gritty of SD-WAN technology
Discover SD-WAN outside of the fundamentals. Learn how it plays with management tools, get steps on how to transition from MPLS and read best practices for SD-WAN issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jan 2019
SD-WAN features lacking, but offer differentiation opportunity
Most available SD-WAN products focus on a few main features, which risks making SD-WAN a commodity offering. But vendors are starting to combat that with feature differentiation. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jan 2019
Network security, SD-WAN suppliers revamp branch security
Branch network security is getting a face-lift, as network security and SD-WAN suppliers look at new ways to integrate their platforms and upgrade products. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2018
What to consider when integrating SD-WAN and ITSM tools
We haven't really heard a lot about SD-WAN integration with IT service management. But getting SD-WAN to work with existing ITSM tools is a big priority for enterprises. Continue Reading
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News
12 Dec 2018
'Best-of-breed' SD-WAN option supersedes big boxes, expert says
When it comes to SD-WAN technology, deployment options vary, largely dependent on business requirements. But a multiple-vendors strategy might be better than all-in-one SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2018
The future of SD-WAN moves away from stand-alone product
'Tis the season for a look at the future of SD-WAN. In 2019, one networking expert expects more managed SD-WAN, further market consolidation and a shift away from individual SD-WAN devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2018
Gauge your platform purchasing options before SD-WAN deployment
Finalizing how an organization deploys SD-WAN can be a complex process, especially with the range of available purchasing options. But studying the options is always a good start. Continue Reading