Cisco SD-WAN
Cisco SD-WAN is an intelligent software solution based on cloud architecture. It is designed for customers who need a distributed network with a single control center and the ability to deploy hybrid networks with different access technologies.
To connect to the SD-WAN network, an SD-WAN router must be installed at the client level, which is managed centrally from the head office. All this allows the administrator, from a single location, to:
- configure network equipment;
- manage security policies and protocols;
- analyze traffic in real time.
SD-WAN routers
Can be delivered to the customer in software, physical, virtual, or cloud form. Located around the perimeter of the network (e.g., in offices, data centers, campuses).
The main purpose of an SD-WAN router is to deploy an overlay network with the highest possible security class in an open WAN environment.
The SD-WAN solution automates enterprise network deployment, implementing the optimal level of data encryption and sending traffic using all connected channels.
The “heart” of SD-WAN is a microcontroller capable of independently and automatically managing all access equipment within the WAN.
This makes it possible to centrally change the settings of any devices on the network by applying configuration templates. The solution allows you to monitor the status of the network and channel load, as well as quickly identify and resolve problems.
Management
Traffic in an SD-WAN network is managed at the software level. For each application, the direction of permitted traffic, balancing parameters, and communication channel utilization are determined. This is the main difference between this technology and similar solutions from other vendors.
To configure SD-WAN, Cisco offers the vManage control panel, which can be used to configure VPN gateways using PaaS and IaaS environments and to analyze the network by testing traffic migration and then evaluating the response of the equipment.
Advantages
SD-WAN has several key advantages:
- Reduced cost of leasing additional network equipment.
- Thanks to special software traffic recognition algorithms and intelligent data flow distribution. SD-WAN can be used to activate several wired networks for data transmission via the Internet, with LTE or 3G solutions implemented as backups.
- Reduced costs for maintaining and using the network and all its resources.
- This is due to a higher level of automation, which leads to a reduction in maintenance time and the elimination of the need for certain IT specialists. Network objects are classified, and there are ready-made configuration templates for each type. They can be activated for a specific device with a single click.
- Reduction in financial costs for network equipment.
- Eliminating dependence on proprietary solutions and switching from proprietary devices to x86-based solutions can lead to significant savings. And installing SD-WAN routers on the network takes just a few minutes: all you need to do is connect the Ethernet cables and power adapter.