October 2023
by David Nelson – Product Lead, Security and Connectivity
In today’s business landscape, organisations rely on seamless connectivity and optimal performance.
Hybrid SD-WAN is a powerful combination of SD-WAN and MPLS that has emerged as a go-to option for businesses aiming to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance.
However, managing this hybrid setup can be a daunting task.
This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come into play. They can offer expertise to streamline operations and can often provide a single-pane-of-glass solution.
In this article, I want to look at 4 challenges you might face when considering a hybrid SD-WAN and how an MSP can provide the foundation for success.
Hybrid SD-WAN introduces the challenge of managing SD-WAN and MPLS networks simultaneously.
Juggling these technologies can be overwhelming. And when that happens, there is the potential for configuration errors and performance bottlenecks. So, there are plenty of technical challenges and hidden pitfalls to consider.
An MSP’s role is crucial here. With the experience and tools needed to efficiently oversee the integration and management of these diverse technologies, they can really make a difference.
Ensuring critical apps receive the necessary bandwidth while avoiding network congestion requires skilful traffic engineering. And Hybrid SD-WAN’s complexity can make this task a challenge.
MSPs excel at analysing network traffic patterns and adjusting routing policies to ensure optimal application performance, enhancing the end-user experience.
Protecting data as it traverses between the SD-WAN and MPLS components demands a comprehensive security strategy.
An MSP can implement advanced security measures, including encryption and firewall solutions, to safeguard sensitive information across the hybrid network.
The key to successful hybrid SD-WAN implementation lies in unified management.
An MSP offers a centralised platform that enables organisations to monitor, configure, and troubleshoot their entire network from a single pane of glass.
This simplifies operations, reduces the risk of errors, and enhances overall network visibility.
Following a series of consultations with an MSP, this restaurant chain has decided that to ensure seamless connectivity and optimal performance, they would adopt a Hybrid SD-WAN approach that would combine the reliability of their existing MPLS network with the flexibility of Cisco Meraki.
In this scenario, the challenges of managing both MPLS and Cisco Meraki SD-WAN become apparent.
MPLS, known for its reliability and security, serves as the backbone for critical applications that require a consistent and dedicated connection. On the other hand, Cisco Meraki SD-WAN offers agility and cost-efficiency by intelligently routing less critical traffic over cost-effective broadband connections.
Here’s how an MSP might step in to manage this complex setup:
With a vast network spread across numerous branches, managing each device and connection individually becomes a complex undertaking. Here, the role of the MSP is pivotal. And what you would expect is access to a centralised platform that offers a holistic view of the network.
Given the company’s size and reach, optimising traffic flow is critical to maintaining excellent user experiences. Expert Network Engineers would analyse the nature of data traversing the network. High-priority transactions, such as credit card processing, require the reliability of MPLS, while non-critical tasks, like employee training videos, can utilise SD-WAN’s cost-effective pathways.
So, an MSP would set up intelligent policies that prioritise and route traffic based on its importance. This would ensure vital operations will remain uninterrupted while the network efficiently handles less critical activities.
Network issues can arise unexpectedly and impact the entire restaurant chain. And the right MSP will offer local 24/7 monitoring and support, allowing expert network engineers to detect and address potential problems before they escalate.
For instance, in the unlikely event a branch’s MPLS connection experiences degradation, MSP monitoring systems would alert the customer. The team could then swiftly intervene to reroute traffic and ensure minimal disruption to the organisation’s operations.
By illustrating this example of a UK-based restaurant company, it becomes clear how a Managed Service Provider such as Maintel plays a crucial role in managing the intricacies of Hybrid SD-WAN. They effectively bridge the gap between MPLS and SD-WAN technologies, ensure seamless integration, and provide the tools and expertise necessary to navigate the challenges associated with such a complex network setup.
Imagine having a trusted partner who not only understands the intricacies of Hybrid SD-WAN networks but also anticipates challenges before they arise.
An MSP is precisely that partner, bringing a range of benefits that extend beyond technical expertise.
Network issues can arise at any time. A good MSP will offer round-the-clock monitoring and support form an in-country team, quickly identifying and resolving potential problems to minimise downtime and ensure consistent connectivity.
An MSP will adopt a proactive approach to network management. They will continuously analyse performance metrics, identify trends, and adjust prevent issues before they escalate. This proactive stance helps maintain a reliable network environment.
The security landscape is ever evolving, and MSPs are well-equipped to address emerging threats. By implementing robust security protocols, they safeguard your hybrid SD-WAN from potential vulnerabilities.
Building and managing an in-house team capable of handling hybrid SD-WAN complexities can be financially draining. Partnering with an experienced MSP eliminates this burden, offering a cost-effective solution while ensuring outstanding service quality.
Our expert team is readily available to help with any questions you may have.
© 2024 Maintel
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