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What are the benefits of using SD-WAN over traditional WAN setups?
Asked on Feb 08, 2026
Answer
SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) offers several advantages over traditional WAN setups, primarily by enhancing flexibility, reducing costs, and improving performance. It utilizes centralized control to manage traffic across the WAN, optimizing data flow and application performance.
Example Concept: SD-WAN separates the data plane from the control plane, allowing for dynamic path selection and centralized management. This enables more efficient use of multiple connection types (e.g., MPLS, broadband, LTE) and provides better application performance through intelligent routing. SD-WAN also enhances security with integrated features like encryption and firewall capabilities, and it simplifies WAN management by providing a single interface for configuration and monitoring.
Additional Comment:
- SD-WAN reduces operational costs by leveraging cheaper internet connections alongside or instead of MPLS.
- It enhances network agility, allowing quick adaptation to changing business needs.
- Centralized management simplifies configuration and deployment across multiple sites.
- Improved application performance is achieved through intelligent traffic steering and optimization.
- Integrated security features help protect data as it traverses the WAN.
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