SD-WAN solutions address the challenges of traditional WAN architectures and provide flexibility, scalability, and enhanced control over network resources.
As companies increasingly rely on cloud-based services and applications, SD-WAN deployment models become integral to modern network strategies.
We’ll highlight the primary SD-WAN deployment models and their implications for your business networks.
Quick links:
Future trends in SD-WAN deployment
We can help you enhance reliability, security, and scalability with SD-WAN solutions. Schedule a free consultation today and let’s find the right SD-WAN model for your business needs.
On-Premises Deployment Model
The on-premises SD-WAN deployment model involves installing SD-WAN appliances at each branch office and remote site within your organization’s network. This requires you to maintain physical hardware on-site.
In this setup, your SD-WAN devices connect directly to network connections, such as MPLS, broadband Internet, or cellular links. The SD-WAN controller, which manages policies and orchestrates the network, resides within your data center or private cloud.
The on-premises deployment model offers the following advantages for your business:
- Strict data sovereignty and regulatory compliance
- Integration with existing network security tools
- Low latency for business-critical applications in private data centers
- Robust security policy implementation
- Improved application performance
- Centralized management and policy enforcement
But, it also comes with some drawbacks. Here are some of them:
- Significant upfront hardware investment
- Requires in-house expertise for deployment and management
- Limited scalability due to physical installation requirements
- Potential difficulties in cloud connectivity and integration
- Less flexible for supporting a distributed workforce
Cost considerations for this model extend beyond the initial hardware investment. You’ll need to account for ongoing maintenance expenses, future upgrade costs, and potential scaling expenditures as your organization expands. Your total costs will span both upfront and long-term expenses throughout your SD-WAN infrastructure’s lifecycle.
Cloud-Based Deployment Model
The cloud-based SD-WAN deployment model involves hosting your SD-WAN infrastructure in the cloud. This model eliminates the need for on-site hardware at your branch offices and remote sites.
Your SD-WAN functionality runs as a service in the cloud. Your branch sites connect to this cloud-based SD-WAN service, which then manages and directs traffic to different destinations, including your data centers, cloud services, and the internet.
A cloud-based deployment offers the following advantages for your business:
- Rapid deployment and easy scalability
- Reduced hardware costs and maintenance
- Simplified management through cloud-based interfaces
- Improved access to cloud services and applications
- Better support for remote and mobile workers
- Automatic updates and new feature rollouts
It also comes with some potential challenges:
- Dependence on internet connectivity for SD-WAN functionality
- Possible latency issues for on-premises applications
- Less direct control over the SD-WAN infrastructure
- Data privacy and sovereignty concerns in some regions
- Potential bandwidth limitations based on your internet connection
The cost structure for this model differs from the on-premises approach. You’ll typically pay a subscription fee based on your usage or the number of sites. This model shifts your expenses from capital expenditure to operational expenditure.
While you’ll save on hardware and maintenance costs, you’ll need to factor in ongoing subscription fees and potential bandwidth upgrades to support the cloud-based service.
Hybrid Deployment Model
The hybrid SD-WAN deployment model combines elements of both on-premises and cloud-based approaches. This model gives you the flexibility to deploy SD-WAN appliances at some sites while using cloud-based SD-WAN services for others.
With the hybrid model, you can have physical SD-WAN devices at your main offices or data centers, with cloud-based SD-WAN services for smaller branch sites or remote offices. The SD-WAN controller may reside on-premises, in the cloud, or in both locations, depending on your specific needs.
The hybrid deployment model offers the following advantages for your business:
- Flexibility to tailor the deployment to each site’s requirements
- Balance between control and ease of management
- Improved support for diverse environments (on-premises, cloud, remote)
- Gradual migration path from traditional to cloud-based infrastructure
- Optimized performance for both local and cloud-based applications
But this model also presents some challenges:
- Increased complexity in managing two different deployment types
- Potential inconsistencies in policy enforcement across different environments
- Higher skill requirements for IT staff to manage both on-premises and cloud components
- Possible integration issues between on-premises and cloud-based parts of the SD-WAN
- More complex cost structure and budgeting
The cost considerations for this model include a mix of upfront hardware expenses for on-premises components and subscription fees for cloud-based services. You’ll need to balance these costs based on your deployment choices for each site.
How to Choose the Right Deployment Model
The selection of the optimal SD-WAN deployment model for your organization requires careful consideration of your specific business needs, technical requirements, and long-term goals. Your choice will impact your network performance, security posture, and operational efficiency. To make an informed decision, think about the following factors:
- Business requirements. Evaluate your company’s operational needs, growth plans, and digital strategy. Each model supports different business objectives.
- Application traffic. Analyze your critical applications and their performance requirements. On-premises models work well for applications hosted in private data centers, while cloud-based models excel with cloud-hosted apps.
- User experience. Focus on your workforce distribution and their connectivity needs. Cloud-based models often provide better support for remote workers and improve access to cloud services.
- Secure connections. Assess your security requirements and compliance obligations. On-premises models offer more direct control over security policies, but cloud-based solutions integrate advanced security features.
- Management complexity. Think about your IT team’s capabilities and resources. Cloud-based models reduce management complexity, while on-premises models require more hands-on administration.
- Cost efficiencies. Compare the total cost of ownership for each model. On-premises models involve upfront hardware investments, while cloud-based models shift costs to operational expenses.
- Connection types. Review your existing network infrastructure and available connection options. Hybrid models offer flexibility to leverage multiple connection types across different locations.
- Scalability. Identify your future growth projections. Cloud-based models typically offer easier scalability for rapidly expanding organizations.
- Cloud providers. If your organization heavily relies on specific cloud services, choose a model that integrates well with those providers.
- Private networks. For businesses with significant investments in private networks, on-premises or hybrid models maintain better integration with existing infrastructure.
- Transport network. Rate the quality and reliability of your internet connections. Cloud-based models require robust internet connectivity for optimal performance.
- Organization requirements. Review any industry-specific regulations or data-handling requirements that influence your deployment choices.
- Quality of service. Think about the level of control you need over network performance and prioritization. On-premises models often provide more granular quality of service options for critical applications.
The right SD-WAN deployment model aligns with your current needs while providing room for future growth. Many organizations start with one model and evolve their approach as their requirements change. Regular reassessment of your SD-WAN strategy helps maintain optimal network performance and cost-effectiveness.
Future Trends in SD-WAN Deployment
SD-WAN technology evolves continuously and shapes the future of network infrastructure. Here are some trends that will impact the development of SD-WAN deployment models:
- AI and ML
- Zero trust security
- Multi-cloud optimization
- SD-WAN and SASE convergence
AI and ML Integration
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) enhance network optimization capabilities and result in more efficient application-aware routing. AI algorithms analyze network traffic patterns and application requirements in real time. They make intelligent decisions about the best path for data transmission.
This integration improves application performance and user experience through dynamic adjustments to changing network conditions. AI-driven SD-WAN also predicts potential network issues and initiates proactive measures to maintain optimal performance.
Zero Trust Security Implementation
Zero trust security principles assume no user, device, or network segment should receive trust by default, even if they operate within the corporate perimeter. In SD-WAN contexts, zero trust involves continuous authentication and authorization of all network connections, regardless of their source or destination.
This model increases secure connectivity across the entire SD-WAN network and protects against both external threats and insider risks. Implementation includes micro segmentation, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring of all network traffic.
Multi-Cloud Optimization
Businesses increasingly rely on multiple cloud providers, and SD-WAN solutions evolve to optimize connections to different cloud environments. This trend supports the growing adoption of hybrid cloud architectures.
SD-WAN deployment models focus on seamless, high-performance connectivity to different cloud platforms. They offer intelligent traffic steering capabilities to secure cloud-based applications receive the necessary bandwidth and meet performance requirements.
This optimization extends to both private and public clouds and results in a cohesive network that spans on-premises, cloud, and edge environments.
SD-WAN and SASE Convergence
The integration of SD-WAN with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) frameworks has gained significant traction. This convergence combines the network optimization capabilities of SD-WAN with cloud-native security services. It addresses both networking and security needs in a distributed, cloud-centric environment.
This trend boosts cybersecurity service solutions through a unified platform for secure access to applications and data, regardless of user location. The SASE model integrates functions such as next-generation firewalls, secure web gateways, and zero-trust network access with SD-WAN capabilities.
About Symplicity
We offer specialized knowledge in SD-WAN services to help you select the right deployment model. Our approach focuses on:
- We establish a robust SD-WAN network connection to ensure constant access to your most important data and applications.
- Our services provide a flexible SD-WAN environment. As your network requirements change, we adapt to accommodate increased demand.
- We design SD-WAN solutions to improve collaboration among your network administrators and partners.
Our team offers the expertise and guidance needed for seamless SD-WAN implementation. We guarantee your SD-WAN remains efficient, reliable, and aligned with your business requirements. Our support enables your business to excel in network management.
Give us a call today and let us help you navigate the complexities of SD-WAN deployment models and find the optimal solution for your organization.
Explore our solutions page for a comprehensive overview of the services we provide.
SD-WAN FAQ
Which SD-WAN controller is deployed first?
The centralized SD-WAN controller typically deploys first. It establishes the foundation for network management and policy enforcement. This controller coordinates the entire SD-WAN network. It configures, monitors, and controls all SD-WAN devices across the infrastructure before other components activate.
What are the three main types of SD-WAN architecture?
SD-WAN architectures vary based on deployment location and infrastructure use. Different models address specific business requirements, network complexities, and operational preferences. Here are the three main types:
- Cloud-hosted (managed by the vendor)
- Managed service provider (third-party hosted)
- On-premise/data center deployment
What is the difference between MPLS and SD-WAN?
Multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) is a private, dedicated network technology, while SD-WAN is an overlay that can use multiple transport types, including public internet. SD-WAN offers more flexibility, cost savings, and easier management compared to traditional MPLS networks.
What are the benefits of SD-WAN solutions?
SD-WAN technology revolutionizes traditional network architectures. It introduces a software-defined approach to wide-area networking, which results in many advantages for businesses. Organizations that implement SD-WAN solutions experience several significant improvements:
- Reduced costs
- Improved network performance and reliability
- Centralized management and control
- Enhanced security
- Easier scalability and deployment of new sites
How is an SD-WAN different from a WAN?
SD-WAN improves upon traditional WAN by adding a software-defined approach to network management. It offers centralized control, intelligent traffic routing, and better integration with cloud services. SD-WAN provides more flexibility in using different connection types and improves security features compared to traditional WAN.
What protocol does SD-WAN use?
SD-WAN uses multiple protocols depending on the specific implementation. Common protocols include IPsec for secure communications, BGP for routing information exchange, and VXLAN for network virtualization. SD-WAN also employs proprietary protocols developed by vendors for specific functions within their solutions.
What are the different types of SD-WAN solutions?
SD-WAN solutions come in different forms to address diverse business needs and network requirements. Each type brings you distinct features and deployment models, catering to different organizational preferences and infrastructure setups. The main types of SD-WAN solutions include:
- Self-managed SD-WAN. Your in-house IT team takes full responsibility for the deployment, configuration, and ongoing management of the SD-WAN infrastructure.
- Fully-managed SD-WAN. A service provider handles all aspects of your SD-WAN, from initial setup to daily operations and troubleshooting.
- Hybrid SD-WAN. This model combines elements of self-managed and fully-managed approaches, with responsibilities shared between your team and the service provider.
- SD-WAN as a service. The entire SD-WAN functionality operates as a cloud-based service, eliminates the need for on-premises hardware, and simplifies deployment.
Further Reading
What are third-party data centers in colocation?
