MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) has been the primary networking technology for organizations for more than two decades. However, with the rise of cloud computing and the need for agile and flexible networking solutions, organizations are now shifting towards SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Networking).
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of switching from MPLS to SD-WAN.
Pros:
1. Cost Savings: MPLS is an expensive networking technology and requires a large amount of investment for installation and maintenance. On the other hand, SD-WAN is more cost-effective as it enables organizations to use multiple internet connections, including broadband and 4G LTE, to reduce costs. This technology also eliminates the need for dedicated transport circuits, which leads to significant cost savings for the organization.
2. Increased Flexibility: MPLS is a rigid technology that requires significant changes to the network infrastructure for adding new sites or making any changes. SD-WAN, on the other hand, provides organizations with the flexibility to add new sites and make network changes quickly and efficiently.
3. Improved Application Performance: SD-WAN offers dual-path connectivity, which ensures that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and prioritization. It also provides sophisticated edge intelligence that enables organizations to configure policies based on application requirements.
Cons:
1. Security Concerns: MPLS is a private and secure network technology that ensures the traffic is protected from unauthorized access. However, SD-WAN uses public internet connections, which could be less secure despite sophisticated security protocols and measures in place.
2. Latency: SD-WAN routes traffic through multiple paths, which could result in increased latency and jitter. This issue is especially prevalent when routing traffic over long distances.
3. Complexity: SD-WAN is a relatively new technology and can be complex to implement and manage, requiring a highly skilled and specialized team. The complexity could also increase if multiple vendors or solutions are used.
Conclusion:
Overall, switching from MPLS to SD-WAN has numerous benefits, including cost savings, flexibility, and improved application performance. However, organizations should carefully weigh the potential security concerns, latency issues, and complexity associated with SD-WAN before making any considerable investment. As such, it is important to engage with a trusted networking provider or specialist to guide the transition to a new technology and ensure that the organization is not exposing itself to any potential risks or operational challenges.