The modern era of digital transformation requires advancement in technology. Because of digital transformation, businesses are relying on an efficient network architecture that can support their operations. No matter what the nature or size of the business is, it is important to deploy SD-WAN that can solve network issues. Well, Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) is a technology that is in high demand to o address the growing demands of networking solutions.
An insight into SD-WAN architecture:
SD-WAN ensures flexible, scalable, and high-performance networking solutions which is why most businesses rely on it. This architecture also simplifies the management and operation of a WAN. It works by decoupling the networking hardware from its control mechanism. This separation allows enterprises to use various connectivity options. In addition to this, enterprises can easily optimize application performance, and ensure security across their networks with the use of SD-WAN.
Are you aware of different types of SD-WAN architectures? There are mainly three types of SD-WAN architecture that includes on-premises, cloud-based, and hybrid. Their deployment mainly depends on their pros and cons.
So, let’s find out about the pros and cons of each architecture type.
1. On-premises SD-WAN Architecture:
One of the most important types is the On-premises SD-WAN architecture that involves deploying SD-WAN devices at each branch location and the central data center. These appliances and devices are managed and controlled locally. This provides a direct control over the network infrastructure.
Pros of On-Premises SD-WAN Architecture–
- Offers high control and customization
If the businesses are using on-premises SD-WAN, your businesses will have full control over their network configuration, and security measures. This control also allows customized solutions as per the needs of the business.
- Data privacy and security
On-premises SD-WAN also offers enhanced data privacy and security. This is because data does not traverse through third-party cloud providers. Because of these pros, many businesses are connecting with reliable SD-WAN vendors for its deployment.
- Reduction in latency
One major benefit of an On-premises solution is that it can offer lower latency compared to cloud-based solutions. This is because the data traffic does not need to route through the cloud. So, this SD-WAN architecture is good for latency-sensitive applications.
Cons of On-Premises SD-WAN Architecture–
Many businesses say that deployment of this type of SD-WAN architecture is a bit costly. The initial investment in hardware and infrastructure can be significant and unavoidable. So, businesses need to buy, install, and maintain physical SD-WAN devices and appliances.
Along with this, managing an on-premises SD-WAN requires a dedicated team of IT staff. This IT staff helps in maintenance, troubleshooting, and updates which can increase operational complexity and costs.
Scalability challenges are also one common problem as they involve adding more hardware and redesigning network configurations.
2. Cloud-Based SD-WAN Architecture:
Another type of SD-WAN architecture is Cloud-based SD-WAN architecture which uses the cloud to manage and control the SD-WAN infrastructure. In this model, SD-WAN appliances are connected to cloud-based controllers and management platforms. Now, look at the pros and cons of using this SD-WAN architecture.
Pros of Cloud-Based SD-WAN Architecture–
- Cost Efficiency
Cloud-based SD-WAN is beneficial in reducing the need for upfront investments in hardware. Instead, businesses can choose a subscription-based model, so that they can pay only for what they use.
- Simplified Management
One important pros of this architecture is simplified management, The centralized management through the cloud simplifies the network administration. So, the IT teams can easily configure, monitor, and update the network from a single interface.
- Rapid Deployment
Cloud-based SD-WAN is also beneficial in terms of immediate deployment. It can be deployed quickly and efficiently and enable businesses to expand their network.
Cons of Cloud-Based SD-WAN Architecture–
When you deploy cloud-based SD-WAN architecture, there will be a dependence on internet connectivity. This type of SD-WAN relies on stable internet connections. So, any kind of disruption in connectivity will impact the performance and reliability of the network.
There will also be some data privacy concerns on deploying this cloud-based WAN architecture. So, businesses must ensure that their cloud providers comply with regulations and security standards.
3. Hybrid SD-WAN Architecture:
Last but not least, Hybrid SD-WAN architecture is also an important architecture that combines elements of both on-premises and cloud-based models. In this type of architecture, some network functions will be managed via on-premises appliances, while others are handled via the cloud. This kind of SD-WAN solution comes with different pros and cons that are illustrated here.
Pros of Hybrid SD-WAN Architecture–
- Enhanced Performance
By deploying both on-premises and cloud resources, businesses can achieve optimal performance for various applications and workloads.
- Flexibility and versatility
Hybrid SD-WAN is deployed by most of the businesses due to its hybrid nature. It offers the best of both architectures, providing businesses with the flexibility to optimize their network based on specific requirements.
- Cost Optimization
With this hybrid SD-WAN architecture, businesses can optimize costs by balancing between on-premises infrastructure and cloud resources. This enhances scalability and flexibility in the networking system.
- Improvement in the resilience
Hybrid architecture can also enhance network resilience. It works by providing multiple pathways for data traffic. In case, one path experiences issues, traffic will be rerouted via an alternative path.
Cons of Hybrid SD-WAN Architecture–
There will also increase complexity in the networking system. Managing a hybrid SD-WAN can be complex due to the need to integrate on-premises and cloud-based components. So, there will be a need for advanced network management capabilities.
In addition to this, the dual nature of hybrid SD-WAN necessitates the management and monitoring of both on-premises and cloud environments. So, this will potentially increase the operational overhead.
Conclusion
The selection of the right SD-WAN architecture depends on a variety of factors including the business’s specific needs. Three types of SD-WAN architecture have their pros and cons. Understanding these models will allow enterprises to choose the right SD-WAN architecture.