Roadmap: From MPLS to SD-WAN
Tips on migrating from a traditional architecture
Moving away from traditional MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) to a modern SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) architecture can provide more flexibility, cost savings, and improved performance. Here are the steps involved in transitioning to SD-WAN while optimizing bandwidth and connectivity costs:
Assess your network requirements: Understand your organization's current and future network needs. Identify the critical applications, traffic patterns, and performance requirements to ensure a successful SD-WAN deployment. Please, don’t take a blind leap!
Conduct a comprehensive network audit: Assess your existing network infrastructure, including MPLS circuits, internet links, routers, switches, and firewalls. Identify the bandwidth utilization, traffic patterns, and application performance metrics to determine potential cost savings and areas for improvement. Know what you’ve got before you decide what to buy.
Evaluate SD-WAN vendors: Research and evaluate different SD-WAN vendors based on your organization's requirements, such as cost-effectiveness, scalability, security, application performance, and management capabilities. Look for vendors that offer seamless integration with existing infrastructure and can support multiple types of connectivity. Look, you're about to jump on the SD-WAN bandwagon, but don't just go for the first vendor that promises you the moon. This is where we can help. We’ll cut through the noise and marketing slicks and hit you with the truth.
Choose appropriate connectivity options: To optimize costs, consider a mix of connectivity options for your SD-WAN architecture. This may include MPLS, dedicated internet access (DIA), broadband internet, 4G/5G cellular connections, or even satellite links. Each option has its pros and cons, and the ideal mix will depend on your specific needs, budget, and geographic locations. Perhaps you’d like to consolidate your SD-WAN appliances, management, subscriptions and bandwidth on one, easy-to-read bill. We can make that magic happen.
Implement intelligent traffic steering: SD-WAN allows you to intelligently steer traffic across different network links based on application requirements, performance, and cost. Define policies and prioritize critical traffic, such as voice or video conferencing, over less time-sensitive applications. This enables you to leverage cost-effective connectivity for non-latency-sensitive traffic while ensuring the performance of critical applications.
Enhance security measures: SD-WAN introduces additional security considerations. Implement robust security measures such as end-to-end encryption, firewalling, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and secure remote access. Consider integrating with cloud-based security services for centralized management and threat intelligence.
Pilot deployment and gradual migration: Start with a pilot deployment of SD-WAN in a controlled environment or a specific branch office. Evaluate its performance, security, and management capabilities before rolling out to other locations. Gradually migrate from MPLS to SD-WAN by retiring MPLS circuits or repurposing them for backup purposes.
Optimize bandwidth and connectivity costs: With SD-WAN, you can leverage cost-effective bandwidth options. Prioritize the use of broadband internet or DIA connections over expensive MPLS circuits for non-critical applications. Utilize link aggregation, load balancing, and path optimization techniques to make the most of available bandwidth and reduce costs.
Continuous monitoring and management: Implement monitoring tools and management platforms to gain visibility into the network performance, application behavior, and security posture. Utilize analytics and reporting capabilities to identify areas for improvement, troubleshoot issues, and optimize network resources continually.
Periodic review and optimization: Regularly review your SD-WAN deployment to ensure it aligns with changing business needs, technology advancements, and emerging connectivity options. Stay updated with industry trends and evolving SD-WAN solutions to leverage the most economic bandwidth and connectivity options.
Remember, the specific steps may vary depending on your organization's requirements, existing infrastructure, and the SD-WAN solution chosen. It's crucial to involve network and security experts in the planning and implementation stages to ensure a smooth transition and optimal results.
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