A software-defined wide area network (SDWAN) is a WAN architecture solution that allows enterprises to steer traffic securely and intelligently across the WAN. It leverages a combination of accessible connectivity products to provide end-user connectivity to their Software as a service (SaaS) and cloud-based application environments. 

The traditional model of sending direct traffic from branch offices to the data centre needs to be updated; it wastes bandwidth, adds latency, and ultimately affects application performance. 

SD-WAN networks can automate network processes, bandwidth and prioritisation performance, and cybersecurity compliance while providing network resiliency and self-healing capabilities. They can use any combination of MPLS, 4G, 5G Cellular, and Internet services available at each site for their connectivity. 

SD-WAN increases application performance and delivers a high-quality user experience, which increases business productivity and agility and reduces IT costs. 

When comparing WAN and SD-WAN, the key difference lies in their approach to connectivity. While a traditional WAN relies on
a physical connection, SD-WAN operates with a virtualized connection that is independent of the underlying hardware.
This virtual link can be easily repositioned or modified to suit the changing needs of your business.

One standout feature of SD-WAN is its superior ability to manage traffic dynamically. Unlike a traditional WAN,
which requires manual intervention for adjustments, SD-WAN can automatically reallocate bandwidth in response to application demands. This flexibility allows for efficient traffic management without the need for constant reprogramming.
In essence, SD-WAN offers a more agile and responsive networking solution compared to traditional WAN setups.

MPLS (multiprotocol label switching), a traditional transport protocol, ensures fast and reliable data movement along fixed paths. However, it requires a single carrier for all sites, leading to higher costs compared to direct internet connections. On the other hand, SD-WAN operates over the Internet, offering flexibility across various ISPs.

The main drawback of MPLS is the increased bandwidth cost compared to an Internet offering. However, as organisations move to the cloud, they require a more flexible, agile, and cost-effective approach to network connectivity and needed application performance.

As high-bandwidth ‘direct-to-internet’ connectivity has become increasingly cheap, many companies have decided to run their WAN services over the public Internet.

The key contrast lies in SD-WAN’s virtualised overlay, which allows for diverse connection types, while MPLS relies on dedicated hardware networks. SD-WAN’s encrypted internet tunnels provide enhanced security and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferred choice over MPLS for modern networking needs. It is more flexible and secure than MPLS.

SD-WAN offers a solution to these challenges by simplifying WAN management, cutting costs, and making better use of available bandwidth. It provides a smooth transition to cloud services, leading to significant improvements in application performance, especially for critical business tools. This enhanced performance boosts productivity, customer satisfaction, and, ultimately, the company’s bottom line. Additionally, with built-in security features, SD-WAN helps reduce the risk of data breaches and other security threats, providing peace of mind for businesses.

On the other hand, SD-WAN helps modern businesses prioritise cloud services to offer users a better-quality experience with applications. It can recognise different types of applications and smartly direct them across the network. SD-WAN ensures that each application gets the right level of service and security tailored to business requirements. Plus, it allows secure direct access to cloud applications from branch locations, boosting cloud performance while keeping the company safe from online threats.