July 11, 2022
SA expected to become continental leader in SD-WAN
Rapid software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) adoption in South Africa means that the country is set to become a continental leader in this field. SD-WAN has gained massive traction as a disruptive technology and South Africa is a key player in the shift towards virtualised networking.
SD-WAN uses intelligent routing. Unlike its predecessors, this type of networking uses any combination of private networks, public broadband and multi-protocol label switching (MPLS). SD-WAN has been earmarked as the next generation of networking and is set for significant growth. South Africa’s robust digital infrastructure forms the backbone of cloud-based computing.
Alongside a surge in cloud adoption comes the demand for a flexible, scalable and easy to manage network. As a provider of SD-WAN, SEACOM Business offers enterprises an affordable and long-term networking solution.
SD-WAN in South Africa
Digital transformation in South Africa is well underway for businesses and industries. South Africa is benefitting from a massive boom in data centres and subsea fibre optic cables. This investment in digital infrastructure supports the demand for cloud-based networks. Current cloud trends suggest that these technologies are here to stay.
For many large enterprises, cloud migration can lead to a complex digital ecosystem composed of on-premise data centres, private or public clouds. Hybrid environments are inherently difficult to manage without a suitable networking solution. Being able to manage and monitor multiple enterprise networks security and easily is a necessity.
In a recent report, it was predicted that many more South African businesses will adopt SD-WAN in coming years. By 2026, it is estimated that almost 40% of SA companies using virtual private networks (VPNs) will adopt SD-WAN as their networking solution.
SD-WAN: the future of networking
MPLS has long been favoured among IT teams because it offers high-speed direct connections for critical data flows. With MPLS, technicians set a predetermined route for traffic to flow. This optimises data traffic, making sure that essential digital operations take place. Despite the high quality connection that MPLS offers, this technology has its limitations. It is expensive and time-consuming to set up. Any changes in networking requirements require manual configuration.
Compared to MPLS, SD-WAN is a much more flexible and scalable solution. By creating a virtual network overlay, technicians link various locations using software, prioritising certain data traffic and automatically routing traffic along the best possible path. Offering the same performance and network quality as MPLS, SD-WAN is the future of networking because of its rapid and easy deployment, configuration and management.
Fully-customised for large multinationals, SD-WAN has become the network of choice for a growing number of businesses in South Africa and abroad. By 2028, the global SD-WAN market is expected to reach US$5.2 billion - over five times the current market value.
Why is SD-WAN popular in South Africa?
SD-WAN supports a mix of connection types, including MPLS, satellite and broadband. It doesn’t require any expensive routing equipment. It is inherently scalable and agile, and because of its intelligent routing capabilities, if any issues arise with a particular route, traffic will automatically be rerouted along another path.
Automation reduces the need for human intervention and reduces the risk for human error. With virtualisation technology that can be accessed from any device, SD-WAN offers simplified management and operation. This decentralised approach facilitates a mobilised workforce with guaranteed connectivity on a high speed network. Users and web-enabled devices experience reduced latency, which contributes to improved productivity.
Apart from improved performance and network reliability, enterprises save on costs with a software-defined network. Secure end-to-end connections make it possible for data to travel safely on public networks. This ensures better speeds and reduces costs. Since this technology is software-based, there is a reduction in capital expenditure and maintenance costs.
SD-WAN with SEACOM Business
SD-WAN offers South African enterprises a secure networking tool. As cloud adoption continues, a need for virtualised networks arises. This has prompted local business leaders to upgrade their network management to a software-based approach. Through a B2B partnership, enterprises can access third-party providers that handle deployment and offer managed services.
As a provider of SD-WAN, SEACOM Business gives enterprises a sustainable solution to their networking requirements. With the option for a fully managed service, our teams of IT professionals provide 24/7 technical support to resolve challenges. As an outsourced solution, complexities and costs related to development and deployment are reduced. For more information or to get a quote for SD-WAN, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.
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