SaaS and IaaS applications are popping up like mushrooms after a rain.
The branch network is a critical piece in enabling cloud adoption at such an explosive rate.
It’s no surprise that many IT teams are under constant pressure. They’re tasked to enhance user experience and, at the same time, improve performance, security and visibility across branch locations.
What is SD-Branch (Software-Defined Branch) and why do you need it?
SD-WAN (software-defined wide area network) deployment has helped companies solve today’s connectivity challenges. SD-Branch augments it by extending software-defined principles to branch locations. Centralised management, automation and simpler connectivity are a few of the characteristics that make SD-Branch a much-needed solution in the cloud-centric world.
SD-Branch vs. SD-WAN, what’s the difference?
SD-WAN and SD-Branch, although related, have different purposes. SD-WAN replaces traditional WAN routers with cost-effective, resilient and high-performance connectivity alternatives. Some of the key features include centralised interface, application routing and performance optimisation.
SD-Branch is the next step in SD-WAN. The SD-Branch software runs through a set of switches and access points installed at each branch location. Thanks to centralised management, IT teams can control the entire branch infrastructure and orchestrate all SD-WAN, security, LAN, and wifi operations with a single pane of glass.
Are they interdependent, you may wonder. The direct answer is, no. You can deploy SD-Branch without SD-WAN, and vice versa. But if you decide to use only one of them, you get half of the benefits. When used in parallel, you’ll have more control and visibility over your branch networks.
Why is SD-Branch so important?
The traditional process of managing branch networks is complex, comprising a number of entry points and devices. Every new deployment and change to the siloed system, be it however small, introduces security risks, not to mention the time spent on installation and testing.
SD-Branch removes the complexity from installation and management processes. It simplifies WAN and branch office IT architecture by consolidating multiple network functionalities onto a single platform. IT teams can quickly deploy new sites and make adjustments in an easy, secure and cost-effective way that doesn’t need them to be physically present. With a single glass of pane, they can configure and tweak network and security functions at any location.
Benefits of SD-Branch
Centralised management
A single dashboard gives IT teams remote visibility across all locations that are integrated with the SD-Branch solution. Within minutes, IT can run diagnostics, deploy new services and changes, without disruption to the overall service. In line with most cloud-based solutions, the management software is constantly improving. This allows the constant delivery of new features and optimisation opportunities which can be rapidly pushed out to all sites.
Improved user experience
Today’s companies are required to deliver consistent, high-quality user experiences. Network performance is often at the root of that experience, be it an employee at the office or a customer at a checkout. SD-Branch minimises network downtime and disruptions that would otherwise negatively impact productivity, customer satisfaction and the bottom line.
Greater agility and scalability
Using SD-Branch, IT teams don’t need complex hardware and software configurations to deploy network solutions for new locations. New functions and services can be added across the branch infrastructure far faster and whenever requirements change, it’s easy to scale the network performance up or down.
Reduced costs
Consolidating multiple functions into fewer appliances reduces support and maintenance requirements, reduces hardware costs and frees up IT resources to work on more strategic projects. Travel costs are cut down because teams can manage branch networks and security operations from a central location.
Increased security
Branch locations tend to be more vulnerable to cyberattacks. The increasing number of IoT devices connected to branch networks adds complexity to already limited on-site cybersecurity. With SD-Branch, companies can implement a variety of software-defined security solutions for an additional layer of protection, and take comfort knowing consistent policies are in force.
How to deploy SD-Branch?
Requirements for branch networks continue to evolve and to keep up, you need a solution like SD-Branch. Having a holistic view of the branch architecture helps you maintain high levels of performance across branch locations without sacrificing security or user experience.
If you’re planning to switch to an SD-WAN in the near future, it’s a good time to evaluate SD-Branch solution for simpler connectivity across branches. Look for an WAN provider who has extensive experience in managing branch connectivity.
Forge Technologies works with global vendors, like Cisco and Fortinet, to deploy cutting-edge SD-WAN and SD-Branch solutions. Contact us today to talk more about your unique situation and how we can help.
