Amid a pandemic like today, an internet connection is a major need to stay connected with family and coworkers. Some telecommunications operators have increased traffic, mainly for broadband-based services. The same is true for companies that continue to operate normally during the WFH period, although not all employees are deployed. For example, the banking sector still requires employees to serve customers amid a pandemic. Internet networks in related offices must always be active, both at the head office and at the branch office so that the company’s system can still run optimally.

Apart from these needs, where the economy is unpredictable, companies must take strategic steps in managing expenses including in terms of corporate networks. To improve network efficiency, companies can use SD-WAN which can also be applied to WAN (wide area network). However, the selection of vendors or SD-WAN providers is an important thing that needs attention, so that the goal for network efficiency can be realized properly.

Tips on choosing the right SD-WAN vendor

One of the uses of SD-WAN network products is to connect company networks including branch offices and data centers that have large geographical distances. Broad network coverage, especially for companies that have branch offices in various regions, requires proper handling. This is where the role of the SD-WAN vendor is needed to overcome them.

Centralized Management

Networks managed by software will reduce the complexity of the underlying infrastructure. In its operation, SD-WAN offering such solutions must also be easy to use and manage. The system that regulates SD-WAN must also display connectivity that unites all company networks in full.

Orchestration

An effective SD-WAN solution must implement software-based orchestration and business guidelines established across networks, including hybrid WAN, Cloud, and wired or wireless LANs at branch offices. For information, orchestration here is automatic configuration, coordination, and management of systems and software. Simply put, SD-WAN vendors must provide automated services such as WAN optimization based on your business guidelines.

Remote Implementation

The cloud-based SD-WAN concept is needed because users are spread over great distances. Thus, the SD-WAN solution must have connectivity and orchestration structure from the management center to where the user is located remotely. SD-WAN vendors should also have the ability to integrate with existing routers to other equipment capable of providing fast and integrated networks optimally.

Network Visibility

Network visibility has an important role, especially in software-defined networks. We recommend that you choose an SD-WAN vendor that provides integrated tools and provides end-to-end visibility from end-users to the Cloud.