SD-WAN is a pivotal technology that facilitates the transformation of enterprise networks from “fragile” to “agile.” Its impact on network security is particularly noteworthy.

As cloud-based applications become more prevalent, many enterprises require secure remote access solutions. SD-WAN enables businesses to create secure zones and route traffic safely according to internal security policies. This capability makes SD-WAN especially valuable for integrating applications that need secure remote access, thereby enhancing its overall significance.

With SD-WAN, enterprises can partition mission-critical traffic and assets, effectively mitigating potential vulnerabilities. This functionality is particularly popular in verticals like retail, healthcare, and finance. SD-WAN offers a comprehensive suite of security solutions, including next-generation firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), URL filtering, malware protection, and cloud security. These features collectively safeguard application traffic from internal and external threats.

Another hot topic around SD-WAN is its impact on MPLS. MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is a technology that uses labels to make data forwarding decisions and is commonly used for branch offices, campus networks, metropolitan Ethernet services, and enterprises requiring real-time application quality of service (QoS).

Despite the rapid development of SD-WAN, most network providers believe that MPLS will remain relevant for a long time and won’t be completely replaced. The primary drawbacks of MPLS are its high cost and complex setup process. Recent research indicates that 83% of enterprises using or familiar with MPLS plan to increase their MPLS network infrastructure this year, with 40% planning a significant increase.

SD-WAN significantly simplifies alternatives to expensive MPLS links for several reasons:

1. Simpler Operational Environment: Enterprises can use multiple lines from different carriers, scheduling resources at the logical level, thus reducing dependency on a single service provider.

2. Layer Separation: This separation allows new managed service providers (MSPs) to offer better services to customers who still want to outsource their WAN.

3. Network Function Virtualization (NFV): Traditional service providers are responding with NFV-based products, which combine and arrange services from several popular providers (such as SD-WAN, security, and WAN optimization). NFV supports the virtualization of network functions, including routing, mobility, and security.

Nevertheless, there are other reasons why customers might still use MPLS in the SD-WAN era. Concerns about system backups during issues underscore the continued role of MPLS and other technologies in such scenarios.

In summary, SD-WAN has a significant impact on both network security and MPLS. If you’re interested in SD-WAN, feel free to consult with network service provider Ogcloud!