Adopting an SD-WAN solution offers businesses numerous advantages: simplified setup and management, faster deployment, cost savings, and improved connectivity. However, one critical decision remains: who will manage and monitor the SD-WAN infrastructure? Companies must choose between self-managing the solution or opting for a fully managed service. For some, this choice is straightforward, while for others, it demands careful evaluation and strategic planning.

Why the Management Model Matters

Deciding how to manage your SD-WAN should be a priority. Businesses must assess whether they possess the in-house expertise to handle tasks such as meeting service-level agreements (SLAs), managing hardware and software updates, configuring the system, and supporting the SD-WAN along with the underlying network connections. If these resources or skills are lacking, outsourcing to a managed SD-WAN service provider becomes a practical and strategic option.

Benefits of Choosing a Managed SD-WAN Service

Seamless Deployment Across Multiple Locations

For businesses with distributed branches, a managed SD-WAN service ensures seamless deployment. These providers handle all aspects of implementation, from hardware provisioning to troubleshooting and ongoing support, guaranteeing SLA compliance and compatibility. This minimizes management overhead, ensures consistent updates, and optimizes operational efficiency.

Cost Control and Faster ROI

Managing SD-WAN internally often involves significant upfront costs and longer project timelines before tangible benefits are realized. Expanding internal resources to support the deployment can be expensive and may lead to delays. A managed SD-WAN service, on the other hand, provides a cost-effective alternative by bundling hardware, software, and network infrastructure with performance-focused SLAs. This helps businesses achieve cost predictability while accelerating return on investment.

Freeing IT Teams for Strategic Initiatives

Managed SD-WAN providers often offer end-to-end solutions, including installation, real-time monitoring, and proactive optimization of the network across all locations. By outsourcing these tasks, your IT team can focus on higher-value projects that drive business growth, such as enhancing applications and infrastructure to meet evolving market demands.

What About Self-Managing SD-WAN?

For businesses with a well-trained and dedicated IT team, self-managing SD-WAN might be a viable choice. If your team can make informed architectural decisions, adhere to flexible timelines, and account for unforeseen costs, in-house management could provide greater control over the implementation process.

However, leveraging SD-WAN to its full potential may still require additional training and new skill development. A structured approach, including a rigorous vendor-selection process and pilot testing, is essential. Popular SD-WAN solutions like VMware SD-WAN (formerly Velocloud), Cisco Meraki, and Cisco Viptela should be evaluated based on their fit with your specific needs.

During the pilot phase, businesses should identify operational challenges and assess how well the solution addresses core issues, such as application performance and network reliability.

The Risks of Self-Management

While SD-WAN promises benefits like centralized control, reduced manual effort, and enhanced traffic optimization, businesses lacking internal expertise may face significant challenges. Mismanagement can lead to service disruptions, performance issues, and unexpected costs, negating the advantages of SD-WAN. Careful assessment is crucial to determine whether the risks of self-management outweigh the potential rewards.

Added Value from Managed SD-WAN Services

Beyond the core advantages, managed SD-WAN providers often deliver value-added services, including strategic advisory, network assessment, and tailored architecture design. These services support businesses throughout the entire SD-WAN lifecycle—from strategy development and vendor selection to implementation and optimization.

Such comprehensive support can ensure that your chosen solution aligns with your business goals, enhances network performance, and positions your organization for long-term success.

How to Choose the Right Managed SD-WAN Provider

To maximize the benefits of a managed SD-WAN service, consider the following steps:

Evaluate Compatibility: Select a provider whose services align with your business needs and technical requirements.

Identify Key Objectives: Define the goals of your SD-WAN deployment to guide budget allocation and decision-making.

Clarify Roles and Responsibilities: Establish a clear division of responsibilities between your IT team and the MSP to avoid miscommunication or oversight.

Plan for the Future: Consider your medium- to long-term network architecture goals when selecting a provider.

Foster Collaboration: Maintain a balance between competitive pricing and open, collaborative engagement with the provider to ensure ongoing value.

If you’re ready to optimize your SD-WAN experience, contact Ogcloud today and explore how our managed SD-WAN services can transform your network capabilities and drive your business forward!