Trends and advancements shaping SD-WAN networks
As businesses continue to embrace digital transformation, the demand for agile, scalable, and secure network solutions is increasing. SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) has already proven to be a revolutionary technology, enhancing network performance, agility, and cost-efficiency. However, the evolution of SD-WAN is far from over.
With 20 years of designing, implementing and managing global Internet networks, no one understands the Internet better than we do. We’ve seen it all and have a few ideas about what’s coming too. Enjoy our overview of the main trends and advancements in SD-WAN technology, upcoming features, potential improvements, and the impact of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).
The current state of SD-WAN
Before we jump forward into the trends, it’s important to first understand the lay of the land for SD-WAN.
Today’s SD-WAN solutions provide:
- Dynamic traffic routing: Optimizing the path for data traffic based on real-time conditions.
- Centralized management: Simplifying network administration with a single control interface.
- Enhanced security: Integrating security features like encryption, firewalls, and secure tunnels.
- Cost efficiency: Reducing reliance on expensive MPLS circuits by utilizing broadband and other connectivity options.
No wonder it’s used by 79% of large organizations - and that number is rising!
Current trends shaping SD-WAN use
Trend 1: Integration with AI and Machine Learning
- Intelligent management: AI can enhance SD-WAN by analyzing vast amounts of data to predict and manage traffic patterns, monitor network conditions, and strengthen security posture. With AI and machine learning algorithms, you can identify potential network issues before they impact performance, allowing for proactive adjustments.
- Automation and optimization: AI-driven automation is further streamlining network management, reducing the need for manual intervention. This includes automated anomaly detection, predictive maintenance, and dynamic policy adjustments based on real-time analytics.
Trend 2: Expansion of IoT connectivity
- Scalability for IoT devices: As the number of IoT devices continues to grow, SD-WAN is scaling accordingly. Future SD-WAN solutions will support more robust and scalable IoT device connectivity, ensuring seamless integration and communication across the network.
- Enhanced security for IoT: IoT devices often introduce new security vulnerabilities. Advanced SD-WAN solutions incorporate enhanced security measures specifically designed to protect IoT devices and data.
Trend 3: Enhanced security features
- Zero Trust Architecture: SD-WAN implementations adopt a Zero Trust security model, which assumes no implicit trust within the network and continuously verifies every user and device attempting to access resources.
- Advanced threat detection: Integrating advanced threat detection mechanisms such as AI-driven intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) will enhance the security posture of SD-WAN networks even further.
- Quantum-resistant encryption: With the advent of quantum computing, encryption methods are evolving. Future SD-WAN solutions may incorporate quantum-resistant encryption algorithms to protect data against emerging threats.
Trend 4: 5G integration
- Leveraging 5G for better performance: The rollout of 5G networks will provide higher bandwidth, lower latency, and more reliable connectivity. SD-WAN solutions can integrate 5G capabilities to enhance overall network performance, particularly for mobile and remote users.
- Hybrid connectivity models: Combining 5G with existing network connections (such as fiber and broadband) create hybrid models that optimize connectivity based on application needs and real-time conditions.
Trend 5: Enhanced cloud integration
- Multi-cloud strategies: As businesses adopt multi-cloud strategies, SD-WAN has evolved to provide seamless connectivity and optimized performance across multiple cloud environments. This includes better integration with cloud-native services and platforms.
- Edge computing support: With the rise of edge computing, SD-WAN can support distributed edge environments, providing low-latency connections and real-time data processing capabilities.
Trend 6: Improved user experience
- Application-aware routing developments: SD-WAN solutions are application-aware, allowing for finer-grained traffic management. This means prioritizing traffic based on the specific needs of each application, enhancing user experience.
- Self-healing networks: SD-WAN networks are becoming more resilient with self-healing capabilities that automatically detect and resolve issues without human intervention. This will ensure continuous uptime and optimal performance.
Preparing for the future with SD-WAN
With the rate of development for SD-WAN solutions, you need to ensure your network is ahead of the game so you can leverage new functionalities as soon as possible. The most effective way to do this is to work with a trusted partner who can assess your current infrastructure and design a network strategy aligned to your current and future business goals.
Working with a Managed Service Provider to ensure your network is SD-WAN ready means you can effectively:
- Access the resources, skills and expertise you need on-demand
Choose the right provider: Partner with an SD-WAN technology provider that is committed to innovation and has a proven track record of integrating emerging technologies. A good MSP will have established relationships with the right providers and handle the process from start to finish for you.
Collaborate with experts: Work with technology experts and consultants who can help you navigate the complexities of implementing advanced SD-WAN solutions, giving you access to the skills you need in a more efficient and cost-effective way that recruiting.
- Future-proof your network
MSPs design scalable, flexible SD-WAN deployments with embedded security, including Zero Trust, ensuring your network evolves with future advancements with:
Embed scalability and flexibility: This will allow you to adapt to future technological advancements without significant overhauls.
Security by design: Integrating robust security measures from the outset to protect your network against current and future threats. This includes adopting a Zero Trust security model and implementing advanced encryption techniques.
- Leverage AI and automation
If you work with a forward-thinking MPS, like Expereo, they will be able to ensure you leverage the benefits of cutting-edge technologies, including AI to:
Automate routine tasks: Use AI-driven automation to handle routine network management tasks, freeing up IT resources for more strategic initiatives.
Predictive maintenance: Implement predictive maintenance tools to identify and resolve potential network issues before they impact performance.
- Adopt a multi-cloud strategy
MSPs ensure seamless integration with multiple cloud providers and leverage cloud-native services to maximize SD-WAN performance across diverse environments for:
Seamless cloud integration: Ensuring your SD-WAN solution can seamlessly integrate with multiple cloud providers, optimizing performance and connectivity across different environments.
Use cloud-native services: Leveraging cloud-native services and platforms to enhance the capabilities of your SD-WAN network.
Ready to see what the future of SD-WAN could do for your organization?
Expereo’s Managed SD-WAN services offer a comprehensive solution that combines cutting-edge technology with global expertise, ensuring that your network is ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
Get in touch today to discuss your connectivity needs.