In the continuous evolution of enterprise networks, choosing different Wide Area Network (WAN) solutions based on business needs becomes crucial. Traditional WAN, based on Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), is a private WAN consisting of enterprise networks and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), connecting multiple sites distributed across different geographical locations. However, with the advent of Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN), a revolutionary transformation has taken place in network solutions.

Key Differences Between Hybrid WAN and global SD-WAN

Technical Architecture

Hybrid WAN employs a physical network architecture, utilizing multiple transmission methods such as MPLS, the internet, and 4G/5G for connectivity. In contrast, global SD-WAN adopts a software-defined virtual network architecture, leveraging virtualization technology and intelligent path selection to provide superior network performance and reliability.

Network Management

Hybrid WAN involves multiple transmission methods, requiring complex network configuration and management. Global SD-WAN simplifies network configuration and management using Virtual Network Functions (VNF), enhancing network manageability.

Network Performance

The performance of Hybrid WAN is constrained by the quality of physical connections, susceptible to network congestion and latency. Global SD-WAN, unaffected by such limitations, optimizes network performance through intelligent load balancing and path selection technologies, ensuring more reliable network connections.

Security

Hybrid WAN exhibits lower security levels, necessitating the use of additional security technologies. Global SD-WAN, on the other hand, features built-in security functions and encryption technologies, providing higher security compared to Hybrid WAN.

Ideal Use Cases for Hybrid WAN

Multi-location Enterprises: Hybrid WAN can provide high reliability and bandwidth for different branches or offices of enterprises using multiple transmission methods such as MPLS, the internet, and 4G/5G.

Enterprises with Low Security Requirements: For enterprises with low-security requirements, Hybrid WAN is an economical choice, offering more bandwidth and reliability without increasing security expenses.

Applications Requiring High Reliability: For applications such as voice, video, and remote desktop, Hybrid WAN can enhance network reliability by providing multiple path backups and load balancing through various transmission methods.

Ideal Use Cases for International SD-WAN

Global Branch Offices: Enterprises with branches in different countries benefit from international SD-WAN, providing global network intelligence and overall bandwidth management, optimizing application performance.

Enterprises Requiring High Security: international SD-WAN offers built-in security functions and encryption technologies, ensuring data protection, making it suitable for enterprises with high-security requirements.

Applications Requiring High Performance: For applications demanding high performance, like video conferencing, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, international SD-WAN utilizes virtualization technology and intelligent path selection to provide higher bandwidth and lower latency.

Although Hybrid WAN and international SD-WAN have their specific use cases, with the increasing complexity of enterprise network demands, most enterprises opt to integrate both to simplify network architecture, enhance network performance, and retain the advantages of traditional WAN in stability and security.

If you wish to delve further into international SD-WAN solutions, feel free to contact Ogcloud!