Software-defined wide-area networking, or SD-WAN, is a flexible, enabling solution that involves the transmission of data packets across a logical overlay that leverages several existing WAN pathways based on predetermined factors and network conditions. SD-WAN is the application of the principles of software-defined networking (SDN) to wide area networks (WAN). Traditionally, connecting to a WAN was handled via a single service provider such as AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, Comcast or any carrier that can deliver long-distance connectivity options such as Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) networks across Internet circuits or broadband networks. One of the primary benefits of SD-WAN is the ability to unify or bundle two or more of these pathways and virtualize them to achieve increased performance, flexibility, and resilience.

Voice and video conferencing applications are compelling use cases at the edge—both produce large amounts of, real-time data that is significantly bandwidth taxing. SD-WAN solutions can optimize data delivery by analyzing current traffic and by testing network conditions to determine the best route for the data packets. Traffic is then sent according to policies that take into account the predetermined priority of the application, the available bandwidth, and the nature of other traffic present on the unified WAN network…

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Chris Grundemann

Creative BizTech & TechBiz Consultant

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