Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) refers to a technology that simplifies the management and operation of a wide area network (WAN) by separating the networking hardware from its control mechanism. It enables centralized management and configuration of WAN connections, allowing organizations to dynamically route traffic across multiple locations, optimize application performance, and improve network agility and efficiency through software-defined policies and automation.
SDN, or Software-Defined Networking,
networks, refers to an approach where network management and control are decoupled from the underlying hardware infrastructure. It centralizes the control of network traffic and services through programmable software, enabling administrators to dynamically manage and configure network resources based on application and user needs.
An example of SD-WAN is a retail chain using SD-WAN technology to connect multiple branch locations. Instead of relying on traditional MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) connections, SD-WAN allows the retail chain to use cost-effective broadband internet connections alongside MPLS, dynamically routing traffic based on application requirements and network conditions to optimize performance and reduce costs.
A wide area network (WAN) system is a telecommunications network that spans a large geographical area, typically connecting multiple local area networks (LANs) across cities, countries, or continents. It enables data transfer and communication between geographically dispersed locations, providing organizations with the ability to share resources, access centralized applications, and facilitate remote communication and collaboration.
Software-Defined WAN (SD-WAN) is replacing traditional approaches to wide area networking that rely heavily on MPLS circuits and dedicated hardware appliances for network connectivity and management. SD-WAN offers greater flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness by leveraging software-defined principles to dynamically manage and optimize WAN connections, reduce dependency on expensive MPLS circuits, and improve overall network performance and agility.