SD-WAN
Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) technology creates a virtual network overlay over the physical infrastructure of an enterprise WAN. Explore how SD-WAN works, the benefits and challenges, troubleshooting advice and deployment best practices.
Top Stories
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News
27 Aug 2024
VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN gets satellite support
Satellite connectivity lets Broadcom offer the VeloCloud SD-WAN as an option for linking IoT devices to the global network from environments without reliable internet access. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Jul 2024
CASB vs. SASE: What's the difference?
CASB and SASE enhance network and SaaS application security. CASB acts as a security layer for cloud services, while SASE integrates networking and security into one framework. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2018
Gauge your platform purchasing options before SD-WAN deployment
Finalizing how an organization deploys SD-WAN can be a complex process, especially with the range of available purchasing options. But studying the options is always a good start. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2018
7 steps to select the right product for deploying SD-WAN for VoIP
Ready to deploy SD-WAN for VoIP? Networking expert Terry Slattery offers seven tips for selecting the right product to support real-time voice needs. Continue Reading
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News
21 Nov 2018
Oracle faces Talari SD-WAN strengths and weaknesses
With the Talari acquisition, Oracle's communications unit gets SD-WAN technology that improves VoIP reliability. But the Talari SD-WAN also lacks important enterprise features. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Nov 2018
A quick guide to important SDN security issues
Lock down your knowledge of SDN security issues using this compilation that includes expert advice, common pain points and helpful best practices. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2018
SonicWall bakes SD-WAN software into Capture Cloud Platform
Security vendor SonicWall added SD-WAN software to its firewall appliances while retail companies are hoping SD-WAN can reduce network complexity, according to a Forrester report. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Nov 2018
Adobe adopts Versa SD-WAN architecture for cloud performance
After moving its business to the cloud, Adobe chose to deploy Versa SD-WAN architecture when it needed four-nines availability for critical services -- all on a smaller budget. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2018
MEF's new SD-WAN standard too low-level, according to analysts
MEF is making its SD-WAN standard available to members, with public availability expected in 2019. But analysts deem the specifications too low-level to effect change. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Oct 2018
SD-WAN and SLAs: Why crafting internal SLAs is a smart move
IT teams can use SD-WAN to keep track of network performance, upping the possibility to create and enforce internal SLAs that better reflect business requirements. Continue Reading
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News
25 Oct 2018
Be prepared for SD-WAN implementation complexities
With SD-WAN implementation burgeoning, enterprises should ensure they have the internal staff to support the technology. And it doesn't hurt to plan for deployment challenges. Continue Reading
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News
24 Oct 2018
Comcast Business unveils Alexa integration with ActiveCore SD-WAN
Comcast Business supports Alexa integration with its ActiveCore platform, allowing customers on the go to ask Alexa how their SD-WAN sites are performing. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Oct 2018
SD-WAN connectivity options hinge on latency, app performance
Users debating MPLS vs. internet for SD-WAN connectivity should take the time to extensively research latency and quality-of-service requirements in terms of application performance. Continue Reading
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News
19 Oct 2018
How SD-WAN services could improve application metrics
In this roundup of network blogs, industry insiders dissect SD-WAN's role in application metrics, the future of 5G growth and the evolution of network automation. Continue Reading
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News
17 Oct 2018
Cato SD-WAN adds 'self-healing' capabilities to product portfolio
Cato Networks hones Cato SD-WAN with 'self-healing' features designed to fight against network failures. Also, Kaloom unveils Software Defined Fabric to improve data center programmability. Continue Reading
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News
11 Oct 2018
SevOne and Versa Networks join forces for SD-WAN monitoring
In networking news, SevOne adds SD-WAN monitoring support for Versa Networks; HPE announces new hybrid cloud services with Microsoft; and Aerohive updates its A3 service with cloud management. Continue Reading
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News
27 Sep 2018
VMware, Riverbed integrate SD-WANs with Azure Virtual WAN
VMware and Riverbed have integrated their SD-WAN software with Azure Virtual WAN, improving interoperability between the products and Microsoft Azure. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Sep 2018
How do I begin network infrastructure planning for SD-WAN?
When gearing up for SD-WAN upgrades, enterprises should take their time with network infrastructure planning. These three steps can help get them started. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2018
Nuage Networks, Talari SD-WAN tack on multi-cloud connectivity
With their respective SD-WAN platform updates this week, Nuage Networks and Talari took a page from Oprah: You get multi-cloud connectivity, and you get multi-cloud connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
31 Aug 2018
NSS Labs-Cisco spat raises licensing restriction enforceability
The NSS Labs-Cisco tiff raises questions on the validity of licensing that prohibits customers from testing software performance and publishing the results. Continue Reading
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News
29 Aug 2018
Talari SD-WAN targets mobile with Meta Networks integration
Talari combined its SD-WAN service with Meta Networks' NaaS platform, and California Telecom chose Versa Networks for managed SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Buyer's Guide
28 Aug 2018
Consider SD-WAN products to help simplify network management
Learn how to determine your organization's need for SD-WAN technology and how to evaluate offerings from the top SD-WAN providers in the market to find the right fit. Continue Reading
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News
23 Aug 2018
Cisco refused to participate in NSS Labs report on SD-WAN
Cisco wouldn't activate NSS Labs' Viptela license after the testing firm paid between $30,000 and $40,000 for the technology for a comparative NSS Labs report on SD-WAN products. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Aug 2018
Which SD-WAN security concerns should I tackle first?
IT teams thinking about software-defined WAN technology should assess a few SD-WAN security concerns before deployment to make sure it's worth the investment. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Aug 2018
Assess technology and products from top SD-WAN vendors
SD-WAN products and services offer a variety of features and deployment options. Learn how top SD-WAN vendors stack up when it comes to addressing your key considerations. Continue Reading
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News
08 Aug 2018
Cisco Viptela integrated with IOS XE on ISR, ASR
Companies unhappy with iWAN on ISR can switch to Cisco Viptela. The networking company has integrated the Viptela SD-WAN with IOS XE, the ISR network operating system. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2018
What you need to know about managed SD-WAN services
This guide offers easy access to information on five major topics related to managed SD-WAN services and directs you toward the latest advice, tips and recommendations. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jul 2018
Windstream SD-WAN gets help connecting to the cloud
Windstream has introduced technology for connecting the Windstream SD-WAN to public clouds. SD-WAN Cloud Connect will support AWS and Microsoft Azure starting next month. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jul 2018
Don't forget SD-WAN during your next network infrastructure upgrade
SD-WAN can be a natural progression for enterprises facing a network infrastructure upgrade. But a refresh with SD-WAN deployment requires more than a 'hope for the best' attitude. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Jul 2018
Cato Networks adds 'identity awareness' to SD-WAN as a service
Cato Networks SD-WAN as a service was updated this week with identity-aware routing. The vendor claims identity awareness can simplify network operations and better meet business goals. Continue Reading
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News
18 Jul 2018
Fortinet transitions from partner to FortiGate SD-WAN vendor
In a change from forging security partnerships with SD-WAN vendors, Fortinet introduced FortiGate SD-WAN, which integrates SD-WAN into its FortiGate next-generation firewall appliance. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Jul 2018
Leading SD-WAN providers offer varying capabilities
By examining how leading SD-WAN providers address technology, market reach, partnerships and long-term viability, you can select an SD-WAN product to fit your organization's needs. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Jul 2018
Vendors vie for a piece of the SD-WAN market share pie
The SD-WAN vendor market is showing some signs of consolidation. But it will remain volatile in the near term, and that should prove beneficial to customers. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jul 2018
Four misconceptions regarding the benefits of SD-WAN
It's all too easy to get sucked into the buzz and misconceptions around software-defined WAN technology. Here are four points to be aware of about the touted benefits of SD-WAN. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Jun 2018
Transforming a legacy network through digital transformation
In a recent keynote speech, GE's CTO Chris Drumgoole outlines the transformation of a corporate giant's network from traditional and sluggish to limber and cloud-enhanced. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2018
Address network scalability requirements when selecting SD-WAN
Selecting an SD-WAN option that suits business needs can be daunting, but diving into network scalability requirements, like bandwidth needs and the number of sites, is a good start. Continue Reading
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News
20 Jun 2018
Silver Peak SD-WAN adds service chaining, partners for cloud security
Silver Peak SD-WAN now allows service chaining for Forcepoint, McAfee and Symantec security VNFs. Also, ONF targets four technologies to develop -- and four supply chain partners to help. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2018
Versa SD-WAN counts progress in customer wins, not 'dollars'
As IHS Markit issues its latest report on the increasing SD-WAN revenue, Versa Networks' CEO said he counts Versa SD-WAN success in customer wins, not revenue. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 May 2018
Key considerations before evaluating SD-WAN vendors
Before selecting an SD-WAN technology, organizations must understand what problems they need to solve and assess which implementation option is best suited to their WAN and business requirements. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2018
SD-WAN technology eases network operational challenges
Services from SD-WAN vendors provide numerous benefits to organizations worldwide that rely on communications to their branch or remote offices. Continue Reading
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News
02 May 2018
NSX networking update unifies branch, data center, cloud
VMware is using its VeloCloud SD-WAN to extend NSX networking to the branch. The move makes NSX the unifier of branch, data center and cloud networking. Continue Reading
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News
19 Apr 2018
128 Technology delivers routing software, SD-WAN on white box
128 Technology integrated its routing software and SD-WAN capabilities with white box CPEs from Lanner. Arrow Electronics will preconfigure the software onto the CPEs. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Apr 2018
SD-WAN benefits the changing network connectivity landscape
In the latest networking advance, SD-WAN benefits the evolving network connectivity landscape by allowing customers to use less expensive internet links and keep MPLS for important traffic. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Apr 2018
Enterprise network management in the wake of vendor consolidation
Consolidation is a driving force among networking vendors, but network professionals have to actively consider how those changes affect enterprise network management. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
SD-WAN routing changes branch dynamics
This week, bloggers look into the changes wrought in the branch by SD-WAN routing, endpoint security tools and Microsoft's new SONiC open source software. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
Survey: SD-WAN challenges include immaturity and complexity
Complexity and maturity concerns rank among top SD-WAN challenges, according to a survey from Cato Networks. Also, Juniper's OpenContrail is rebranded to Tungsten Fabric. Continue Reading
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News
21 Mar 2018
Dell Virtual Edge Platform takes SD-WAN to SPs, enterprises
Dell has unveiled an appliance for running an SD-WAN or virtual network functions. The Dell Virtual Edge Platform is aimed at service providers and large enterprises. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Mar 2018
Where do mobile users fit in with SD-WAN as a service?
SD-WAN as a service can act as a bridge between mobile users who want to access business apps on the go and network managers who want to manage and secure those users. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Mar 2018
Network subscription packages gain steam among enterprises
Networking suppliers are increasingly offering network subscription packages, as enterprises have become more familiar with paying for services with monthly subscriptions. Continue Reading
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Quiz
06 Mar 2018
Quiz: Test your knowledge on how SD-WAN works
With SD-WAN deployment on the rise, take the time to test your knowledge about how SD-WAN works. This quiz covers SD-WAN technology basics, benefits of SD-WAN and common myths. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Feb 2018
How do IoT sensors intersect with SD-WAN?
Most traditional WANs can't handle the increasing number of IoT sensors -- and the data they collect. But SD-WAN can help improve IoT performance and analysis. Continue Reading
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News
21 Feb 2018
Riverbed SD-WAN gets connections to Amazon, Microsoft clouds
Riverbed SD-WAN now includes support for private connections to Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. Other enhancements include support for the Xirrus WLAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Feb 2018
SD-WAN vs. MPLS: The quality-of-service comparison
Quality of service is often top of mind for IT leaders when debating SD-WAN vs. MPLS -- especially when it comes to using internet links for SD-WAN connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2018
Enterprises choose managed SD-WAN over DIY SD-WAN deployment
Enterprises prefer purchasing managed SD-WAN services, rather than taking the DIY SD-WAN deployment approach, according to recent research from Frost & Sullivan. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Feb 2018
Consider the Ethernet option for primary SD-WAN connectivity
SD-WAN connectivity offers the ability to use a variety of links. While most enterprises opt to use cable or DSL as the primary link, Ethernet could be the better option. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2018
Existing branch routers could be replaced as SD-WAN matures
Enterprises are moving away from traditional branch routers, as SD-WAN capabilities mature and offer consolidated network functionality on a single device. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2018
Orange offers Cisco SD-WAN, Vonage intros SmartWAN for SMBs
Vonage offers VeloCloud-based SmartWAN for SMBs while French mobile network operator Orange launches an SD-WAN service on Cisco's virtualized network services platform. Continue Reading
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News
06 Feb 2018
Aryaka enhances SD-WAN with Radware DDoS protection
Aryaka adds Radware DDoS security to its global private network to provide another layer of security. Also, Virgin Media Business intends to launch managed SD-WAN with software from Versa Networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2018
SD-WAN security remains customer and vendor focus
Most SD-WAN vendors offer common features when it comes to SD-WAN security, but some tout security differentiators embedded in their services. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Jan 2018
How does SD-WAN manage real-time network traffic performance?
Most people have experienced poor quality when it comes to real-time network traffic, like VoIP and video. But SD-WAN can help prioritize traffic and improve reliability. Continue Reading
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News
27 Dec 2017
Nuffield Health finds SD-WAN deployment worth the added cost
The additional SD-WAN cost brought more value to the LANs of 189 Nuffield hospitals and fitness centers in the United Kingdom. Continue Reading
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News
13 Dec 2017
SD-WAN a tool for combining networks, engineer says
When your company acquires another, combining networks can be a chore. But SD-WAN could ease the pains associated with integrating disparate topologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2017
Comparison of popular technical SD-WAN service models
Two main SD-WAN service model options exist for users to choose from, but more could be on the way due to regulatory and industry development efforts. Find out what works for you in this comparison. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2017
Comcast networking adds ActiveCore SD-WAN; AT&T NetBond tackles cloud
Comcast networking now includes the new ActiveCore SD-WAN platform. The company is the first U.S. cable operator to offer the SDN service. Meanwhile, AT&T has unveiled better cloud connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
30 Aug 2017
VeloCloud's SD-WAN security program adds more partners
VeloCloud introduced new members to its SD-WAN security program, while Canonical Ltd. and SnapRoute combine technologies to develop an integrated white box switching stack. Continue Reading
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News
03 Aug 2017
Riverbed Xirrus merger brings SD-WAN, wireless integration
The Riverbed Xirrus merger will lead to unified management of SD-WAN and wireless products. Riverbed SteelConnect Manager will get some control over Xirrus access points this year. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 May 2017
EarthLink SD-WAN helps Dunn-Edwards Paints connect with customers
When Dunn-Edwards Paints decided to explore software-defined WAN, they looked to their service provider, EarthLink. The latter's new managed SD-WAN service was a hit. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
01 May 2017
Cisco to acquire Viptela
Cisco said it would acquire SD-WAN vendor Viptela Inc. in a deal valued at $610 million. The transaction, expected to close later this year, will fortify Cisco's existing SD-WAN portfolio with ... Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2017
SD-WAN vendor Silver Peak enticing enterprise with security, routing
SD-WAN vendor Silver Peak releases an EdgeConnect update that takes the company closer to a complete branch office networking platform. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2017
Versa Networks' SD-WAN platform now supports IPv6
In SDN news, Versa Networks announces SD-WAN that supports IPv6, and ONUG releases the speaker lineup for its upcoming spring conference, hosted in San Francisco on April 25-26. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2017
Riverbed bolsters SteelHead WAN optimization appliance with SD-WAN
Riverbed cloaks its SteelHead SD-WAN optimization appliance with SteelConnect features to provide security and application acceleration. Continue Reading
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News
06 Feb 2017
Cato Networks' new SD-WAN service combines security and networking
This week's SDN news revolves around SD-WAN. Cato Networks introduces an SD-WAN service which merges networking and security, while Viptela and Riverbed roll out managed SD-WAN announcements. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Feb 2017
SD-WAN vendors enjoy rave reviews from happy users
Compared to data center SDN companies, SD-WAN vendors seem to have it easy, with a relative slew of satisfied customers eager to share their deployment stories. Continue Reading
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News
22 Nov 2016
Viptela, CA Technologies merge network performance management, SD-WAN
Viptela's SD-WAN meets CA Technologies' network performance management in a new partnership; VeloCloud adds voice quality monitoring to SD-WAN services; and AT&T and Colt test SDN interoperability. Continue Reading
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News
14 Sep 2016
Riverbed SD-WAN upgrade means tighter integration for SteelConnect
The Riverbed SD-WAN refresh means companies can swap out existing routers; UNH opens a testing lab for 25 GbE; and Gartner warns NAC policies need tightening. Continue Reading
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News
13 Sep 2016
Mushroom adds new WAN tools with VNF library
With its new VNF Design Studio, Mushroom Networks says it is providing customers with a whole new set of WAN tools to improve performance. Continue Reading
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News
03 Aug 2016
Software WAN reaches peak of hype cycle
This week, networking industry analysts assess the networking hype cycle, Black Hat 2016 and networking in the 1980s. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2016
Riverbed SD-WAN design goes beyond optimization
The Riverbed SD-WAN strategy blends optimization, orchestration, management and other services in a single platform, called SteelConnect. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Mar 2016
Discover three ways to get your WAN software defined
There are three ways to get your WAN software defined: overlay, replace and as a service. Learn what these entail and how they can reduce costs and improve WAN performance. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2016
New Verizon service uses Viptela SD-WAN technology
Verizon has rolled out a managed SD-WAN service using technology from startup Viptela, in addition to a similar service using Cisco IWAN, which it introduced last year. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jan 2016
Riverbed acquires Ocedo to move faster in SD-WAN market
Riverbed plans to use its recent acquisition of Ocedo to quicken the pace of delivering products in the SD-WAN market. Continue Reading
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News
22 Dec 2015
SDN trends: All eyes on SD-WAN; open SDN's path unclear
Our most-read SDN news stories of the year reveal a collective obsession with SD-WAN, as well as a strong interest in the future of open SDN. Continue Reading
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News
18 Dec 2015
Learn SDN with the pros: Top expert pieces from 2015
Continuing our list of the most-read expert contributions of 2015, software-defined networking pros tackle questions on SD-WAN, NFV, OpenFlow and more. Continue Reading
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News
04 Nov 2015
Is SD-WAN the future of WAN networks?
In this week's blog roundup, analysts assess the future of SD-WAN networks, bimodal networking and look into the HP split. Continue Reading
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News
29 Oct 2015
IBM innovation exec bets on SD-WAN cloud startup
Linda Bernardi, IBM chief innovation and disruption officer and VeloCloud advisory board member, said she thinks the SD-WAN cloud startup holds the key to better connectivity. Continue Reading
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News
14 Oct 2015
Riverbed jumping into SD-WAN market in 2016
Riverbed plans a suite of SD-WAN services and products underpinned by new SteelHead OS. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Sep 2015
Do managed software-defined WAN services make sense?
By offering managed software-defined WAN services -- and potentially hastening MPLS' demise -- are providers sabotaging themselves? Our expert says no. Continue Reading
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News
03 Sep 2015
SDN blogs: Will the SD-WAN market gold rush pan out?
How big is the SD-WAN market? One blogger says to take your best guess. And a network engineer argues that the ONF's definition of SDN is "mostly useless." Continue Reading
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Answer
02 Sep 2015
How will software-defined WANs impact the enterprise?
SD-WAN has a lot of potential for enterprises, especially as developers cobble together custom services and capabilities. Continue Reading