Software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN) can connect remote locations well, deliver exciting new features, and improve cost profiles. Like any new technology, however, it comes with some myths attached to it that might keep customers from pulling the trigger on that buying decision. Debunking these myths could mean a leg up on your sales.
Myth: SD-WAN only improves costs.
Fact: While SD-WAN does add cost savings — thanks to reductions in staffing required to engage in manual configuration — SD-WAN improves network efficiency with active monitoring, network performance reporting, and more. Greater efficiency yields greater performance, and greater performance allows for higher productivity, better customer experience, and improved employee morale.
Myth: SD-WAN providers are also WAN providers.
Fact: Because the term “WAN” is right in the name, people assume that SD-WAN providers offer WAN services. The “SD” part, however, is what truly separates SD-WAN from WAN. The software-defined part means that SD-WAN vendors generally don’t offer physical networks. There might be exceptions, but the two markets are commonly separate. Businesses will need to have standard network infrastructure in place to take advantage of SD-WAN.
Myth: Anyone can set up an SD-WAN system.
Fact: SD-WAN systems require a great deal of expertise to establish and operate. While there’s a lot of automation that takes place, the initial setup is a matter for experts, and keeping it operating afterward will take similar expertise. It might sound contradictory in that SD-WAN allows for reductions in staff hours required to maintain a network, but that’s due in large part to the automation. SD-WAN still needs qualified people to operate and maintain it.
Myth: SD-WAN is only for static operations.
Fact: SD-WAN can even be incorporated into temporary sites that may have to move rapidly. It’s recommended for specialty retail, energy, and construction operations thanks to that potential flexibility.
Myth: SD-WAN is just the same thing as WAN optimization.
Fact: Not only are they two different things, but the two can actually be used together. WAN optimization can be part of an SD-WAN package. WAN optimization focuses on reducing bandwidth consumption, while SD-WAN allows for traffic switching to improve routing and produce a better end result.
It’s a Fact: Do SD-WAN Right
So how do you bring SD-WAN to your customers? You start with experts like eXemplify, who can support you through the process and help you gain access to solutions from providers like Transbeam. We have an extensive background in SD-WAN and networking to help you learn more about this technology and deliver it to your customers.