Comparison between MPLS, SD-WAN and SASE

A wide area network (WAN) is the digital backbone of any large enterprise; it connects branches and headquarters to data centres nearby and allows employees to connect, collaborate and communicate with one another. The business network has evolved from a legacy system into a secure, cloud-based resource that improves efficiency and productivity for a remote workforce.

Companies, whether large enterprises or small family-owned businesses, now have a variety of choices when it comes to IT networks. The three most common solutions are multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), a software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) and a secure access service edge (SASE).

These services establish robust and secure IT network connections between offices and nearby data centres across South Africa and the region. Each network has unique advantages, so the best solution depends on your company’s needs and growth aspirations.

First generation networks: MPLS and legacy WAN

The first generation of business networks included MPLS and the internet. These solutions delivered a great balance between cost, availability and latency. MPLS runs on a managed, private connection between offices, rather than sending traffic through the internet. This allowed for basic encryption and security protocols.

Since the connection is managed by a telco or other services provider, a service-level agreement (SLA) could be established to commit to certain availability and latency. These agreements were initially expensive and were priced according to the available bandwidth of the network. MPLS networks delivered high availability and low delays for a high price.

Second generation networks: SD-WAN

The cost-performance balance of MPLS gave rise to SD-WAN. This solution uses both MPLS and the internet to intelligently manage traffic via selected connections between branches and data centres. Certain business applications and users can be directed through less congested connections by the software that ‘runs’ the network.

SD-WAN improves the management capabilities and oversight of the network, freeing up time for IT teams to focus on other objectives. It also offers a more secure network than MPLS with far greater flexibility and scalability, with the ability to prioritise certain traffic or apps.

Third generation networks: SASE

SASE, also called SSE, is the latest iteration of IT networks. It relies on cloud-based infrastructure to deliver a highly-secure connection between remote workers and the business. SASE was developed to address the rapid shift to remote work and cloud migration.

SASE uses a zero-trust approach to network security, so access to cloud apps and services is predetermined by IT managers for authorised employees. As cyber attacks on companies become more prevalent, IT networks need to become more secure and scalable. SASE delivers on these necessities and improves cloud application delivery to a mobile workforce. At the same time, it further improves network visibility and management.

Comparisons between MPLS, SD-WAN and SASE

Now that the basics of each network type have been outlined, you can scan the table below for quick reference to some of the different capabilities offered by the three network solutions:

These are a few of the comparisons between the network options available to companies. While SEACOM Business offers SD-WAN, MPLS and SASE, the best solution depends on your corporate structure, connectivity needs and the nature of the data that your business works with. Sometimes, a hybrid solution is the best option as this delivers key advantages of both network types.

Speak to one of our network experts to establish the best solution for your business. We offer round-the-clock support for enterprise networks. For more information or to get a quote for our network services, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including subsea cables and secure internet connections. We offer a diverse range of flexible, scalable and high-quality solutions for businesses that meet world-class standards for connectivity.

SEACOM is privately owned and operated, making it agile and adaptable to the needs of the customer. This makes us the preferred ICT and internet connectivity partner for African businesses and peripheral service providers. We can guarantee high-speed, low-latency and secure internet connections to corporates and small enterprises.

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