As more businesses embrace digital transformation initiatives, the demand for secure, reliable networking solutions has never been higher. However, increased dependence on the cloud and a rise in remote working models have left many struggling with connectivity issues.
While traditional wide area networks (WANs) often can’t keep up with the evolving needs of modern businesses, software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN) can help. An estimated 92% of organizations will adopt SD-WAN solutions by 2026 – but how can you be sure your business needs SD-WAN? Here are some signs that it’s time to make the switch:
Network Performance Challenges
If your business is experiencing network performance issues, such as slow response times, frequent downtime, or packet loss, it could be a sign that your traditional WAN infrastructure is struggling to handle the increased demand. SD-WAN can optimize network traffic by intelligently routing it over multiple connections, such as MPLS, broadband, or LTE, based on application requirements and network conditions. This can result in improved performance, a better user experience, and higher employee productivity.
Increased Cloud Usage
A reliable, high-performing network connection is critical for accessing bandwidth-intensive cloud applications, such as video calls. Traditional WANs lack the flexibility needed to handle the dynamic nature of cloud-based applications. Luckily, SD-WAN provides direct, optimized access to ensure low-latency connections and more efficient bandwidth use.
Multi-Site Connectivity
Managing and securing the network infrastructure can be challenging if your business has multiple locations or branch offices that need to be connected. SD-WAN simplifies network management by providing centralized management tools to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot across the entire network from a single location. It also enables more secure connectivity between multiple locations through encrypted tunnels, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity.
Cost Optimization
Traditional WANs can be expensive, especially when it comes to MPLS connections. SD-WAN allows businesses to leverage more cost-effective internet connections, such as broadband or LTE, without compromising performance or security. SD-WAN also offers the ability to optimize bandwidth usage by prioritizing critical applications, eliminating unnecessary traffic, and reducing bandwidth costs.
Security Requirements
Many SD-WAN solutions include advanced security features – including next-generation firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS), virtual private networks (VPNs), and encryption – to ensure secure communications across the network. SD-WAN can also segment network traffic and apply granular security policies based on application or user, improving your company’s overall security posture.
Remote Workforce Support
With demand for remote and hybrid work environments on the rise, businesses need to provide fast, secure connectivity no matter where their employees are located. SD-WAN allows work-from-anywhere teams to access corporate applications and data with the same level of performance and security as in-office employees. SD-WAN also provides visibility and control over remote user traffic, allowing businesses to monitor and manage remote workforce connectivity more effectively.
If your business is experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to consider adopting SD-WAN for your network management needs. However, eXemplify is here to help if you’re still not sure whether SD-WAN is right for your business. Reach out to us today to find out if your organization can benefit from switching to an SD-WAN solution.