Around the early 2000s, big enterprises were facing failure in their networking systems due to heavy workload. And, maintaining security and privacy was also a major problem while e-mailing or sharing confidential data over the networks. However, this problem was eradicated due to some code, leading to the advent of SD-WAN services.

Let us introduce you to the basics of SD-WAN. SD-WAN is nothing, but a software setup for multiple networking systems. It stands for software-defined wide area network.

Nowadays, the network infrastructure of ventures is stabilized on SD-WAN, which comprehends the essence of software and multiple kinds of network subsystems. SD-WAN has emerged as a flexible networking system that can adapt to dynamic corporate needs.

An Introduction to SD-WAN:

SD-WAN leverages the usage of multiple layers of networks at a time. These networks could be a combination of MPLS, LTE, and other networking systems. For secure network traffic, SD-WAN uses centralized control functions present in a network infrastructure.

Big enterprises look SD-WAN as a convenient and secure option to work remotely on technologies like cloud computing. It is a new, simplified, and automated approach for management and transformation of the traditional WAN architecture.

Security Concerns with SD-WAN:

Whatever security channels are made up to safeguard the enterprise’s confidential data and the network infrastructure, SD-Wan somehow lags with its security features. SD-WAN is not a simple structure, it is orchestrated with complex networks and programming codes. So, you can not say whether the SD-WAN system is faulty or it is caused by some human error.

The first and foremost challenge an enterprise will feel is giving access to its confidential data and infrastructure to some 3rd party. However, techies like Infinity Labs are a pro in setting up secure SD-WAN functions. It is hard to rely on anyone in the market, but Infinity Labs has set up a code of conduct to prevent security breaches.

Let’s discuss some of the security challenges faced by SD-WAN users and enterprises:

If we listen to what Gartner says, then we will get to know that around 80% of SD-WAN deployments are going to take account of security service requirements in the upcoming years. Actually, the subscription to an SD-WAN System demands connecting via any outsider agency. So, the agency must be trustworthy enough to carry out all your operations without causing potential security risks.

Just because of this, SD-WAN products and services are supposed to be robust and follow end-to-end encryption protocols.

Is there any certification to prove the reliability of SD-WAN systems?

At present, there is no national or international body to certify the reliability or security levels of SD-WAN systems. However, for this innovative technical solution, you should thoroughly inspect the IT solution providing agency. Once you are satisfied with their non-disclosure and encryption policies, then only you should proceed to orchestrate SD-WAN.

In spite of the absence of security certifications or standards for SD-WAN, it is quite popular among enterprises for its remarkable features. It is just because of the trustworthy nature of some IT companies.

Now, the question arises what factors should enterprises consider to choosing an SD-WAN services company?

The answer is not so simple. However, we can mark four factors to consider before making any SD-WAN provider your digital partner. They are:

Trust:

If you get a trustworthy SD-WAN vendor, then most of your problems are solved by default. You will not have to worry about data leaks & theft.

Performance:

Apart from trust, your ally company’s SD-WAN architecture must perform well and as required by your enterprise. It should timely deliver the data and ensure zero network traffic in between.

Security:

Data security is one of the keys that decide the future of any company. If your company’s data is secure, more clients will be attracted to you. Hence, you must ensure that your digital partner keeps his word regarding data security and confidentiality.

Cost:

Once you cross-check with the above points, you must negotiate with the SD-WAN Vendor for cost deductions. Your enterprise will be benefitted only when the SD-WAN agency helps in overall cost-cutting for your business.

You can take guidance from the above points if you are considering buying SD-WAN services from an IT agency.

How can you overcome the security challenges coming across your way to adapt SD-WAN systems?

Since SD-WAN services do not come with integrated services, your SD-WAN vendor will need to route the network traffic through security stacks. This will ensure the prevention and detection of security threats at regular intervals.

As the technique is getting progressive, SD-WAN is now forming a network base with the help of next-generation firewalls(NGFW), secure web gateways(SWG), cloud access security broker(CASB), etc. It forms a strong Secure Access Service Edge(SASE) network base to safely connect the users and end points at remote locations.

Let’s Conclude:

Although the SD-WAN technology is a revolutionary innovation in terms of networking. It relies majorly on software systems while the traditional ones were related to hardware mostly. It is also prone to security threats and challenges. However, if you choose your SD-WAN vendor smartly, then this technique is going to enhance your business’s turnover at a rapid pace.

Some FAQs:

Q1: How do you choose a perfect SD-WAN vendor for you?

A: The vendor must qualify for the four qualities. They are- trust, security, cost, and performance. If your vendor qualifies for these traits, he/she is the one.

Q2: Is SD-WAN more prone to security threats than VPN?

A: No, VPN is more vulnerable than SD-WAN. Also, SD-WAN uses dynamic encrypted tunnels for providing layerwise safety to data theft and other security breaches.

Q3: Does SD-WAN have firewall?

A: Yes, modern SD-WAN systems use the next generation firewalls(NGFW) for detection and prevention of security breaches.

Q4: Does SD-WAN uses public internet?

A: Yes, it does. You can use the SD-WAN connected with a public internet or Wi-Fi. In some cases, for this matter, SD-WAN is felt cost effective as well.