Is SD-WAN software or hardware?

A software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) is one that is abstracted or virtualised. This means that network managers can remotely monitor and access the WAN from anywhere. SD-WAN is highly flexible, scalable and intelligent due to its nature, so it holds numerous benefits for large companies with multiple branches.

An SD-WAN uses software to control the flow of traffic across the network, which boosts performance, security and efficiency. It is often used to connect several branches or offices to a central hub or cloud-based platform, hence the abstracted or virtualised component. SD-WAN is software, but it does require some hardware to set up.

SD-WAN architecture

As with all WANs, SD-WAN relies on connected architecture. However, this architecture is abstracted or hosted on the cloud. It is divided into two parts; the control plane and the forwarding plane. The control plane is hosted on a central server, often at a company’s head office, but it can be accessed remotely by the IT management team.

There are three main components of a virtualised SD-WAN:

1. The SD-WAN edge - This is where the network endpoints (or computers and connected devices) are located. It can be an office, a data centre or a cloud platform.
2. The SD-WAN controller - This centralises the management of the network and enables operators to monitor the network remotely.
3. The SD-WAN orchestrator - This is the virtual manager of the network that oversees the flow of traffic and applies policies or protocols that are set by the IT team.

These three components form the basic architecture of an SD-WAN, whether it is an on-premise or cloud-enabled system. These components are all software-based, so the network does not require specific hardware for specialised functions. Instead, the SD-WAN infrastructure is based on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment.

Traditional WANs were never designed for the cloud, so they typically require backhauling of traffic from branches to the data centre where cyber security services can be applied. This causes a delay and reduces network performance, so the user experience is greatly affected. SD-WAN does not have these issues thanks to the nature of its architecture.

SD-WAN infrastructure

COTS equipment is sometimes referred to as ‘white-box’ hardware. These include universal customer premises equipment that will be found at most offices around the world. Not only does this simplify the set-up of an SD-WAN, but it also means that no specialised hardware needs to be purchased by the business.

SD-WAN can be set up and deployed at any company, so the business retains ownership of the network and equipment. Although, some companies prefer to hire a managed service provider to take over some control of the network and completely manage it from a remote location.

Since SD-WAN is software-based, it can automatically identify applications and provide intelligent routing of traffic across the network. It simplifies the WAN, makes it more affordable for businesses, improves the security and maximises the bandwidth efficiency of the network. Better network performance improves employee productivity, customer satisfaction and profitability.

Modern businesses need networks that are reliable, secure and flexible. SD-WAN is the ideal network solution for companies of all sizes - whether they have a single office or multiple branches in different locations. For more information or to get a quote for our SD-WAN services, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

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