· connectivity · 4 min read
Choosing the Right Network Solution for Your Business: MPLS vs. SD-WAN
MPLS has long been the mainstay of Corporate WAN technology, but SD-WAN is challenging this position with a different approach.
As a provider of network solutions, we understand that businesses of all sizes face the challenge of connecting their remote sites and employees with reliable and secure networks. Two popular solutions for this challenge are MPLS and SD-WAN. In this blog post, we’ll explain what MPLS and SD-WAN are and how they can benefit your business.
What is MPLS?
MPLS, or Multiprotocol Label Switching, is a protocol used to route data across wide area networks (WANs). It is a traditional network solution that has been used by businesses for many years. MPLS provides businesses with a dedicated, private connection that can help improve network reliability and security. MPLS also offers quality of service (QoS) features that can prioritize network traffic and ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
What is SD-WAN?
SD-WAN, or Software-Defined Wide Area Network, is a newer networking solution that has gained popularity in recent years. SD-WAN is designed to optimise network traffic and provide businesses with enhanced network performance, security, and flexibility. SD-WAN utilizes multiple connection types, such as broadband and cellular, to provide businesses with faster data transfer rates, reduced latency, and improved application performance.
Benefits of MPLS
MPLS provides businesses with numerous benefits, including:
Reliability MPLS provides businesses with a dedicated connection that can help improve network reliability. MPLS also offers QoS features that can prioritize network traffic and ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
Security MPLS provides businesses with a private connection that can help improve network security. MPLS also offers built-in encryption that can protect data transmitted over the network.
Quality of Service MPLS offers QoS features that can prioritize network traffic and ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth. This can help improve application performance and user satisfaction.
Scalability MPLS is a scalable solution that can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of businesses. This means that businesses can easily add or remove sites from their network without incurring significant additional costs.
Benefits of SD-WAN
SD-WAN provides businesses with numerous benefits, including:
Improved Performance SD-WAN utilizes multiple connection types, such as broadband and cellular, to provide businesses with faster data transfer rates, reduced latency, and improved application performance.
Enhanced Security SD-WAN offers advanced security features, such as encryption and next-generation firewalls, to protect data and applications. This means that businesses can enjoy enhanced security and meet regulatory compliance requirements.
Increased Agility and Flexibility SD-WAN is designed to be agile and flexible, which means that businesses can easily adapt to changing network needs and expand their network without incurring significant additional costs. This can help businesses to be more responsive to market changes and maintain a competitive edge.
Simplified Network Management SD-WAN offers centralized network management, which means that businesses can monitor and manage their network more efficiently. This can help reduce the burden on IT staff and lower costs associated with network management.
Cost Savings By utilizing broadband and cellular connections, SD-WAN can help businesses reduce costs associated with traditional WAN solutions. Additionally, SD-WAN can simplify network management and reduce the need for costly hardware and software upgrades.
Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business
Choosing between MPLS and SD-WAN can be a challenging decision for businesses. While MPLS provides businesses with a reliable and secure connection, SD-WAN offers advanced performance and flexibility features. Ultimately, the choice between MPLS and SD-WAN will depend on the specific needs of your business.
As a provider of network solutions, we can help you assess your business’s network needs and recommend the best solution for your business. Whether you choose MPLS or SD-WAN, we will work with you to ensure that your network is optimised for performance, security, and cost-efficiency.
In conclusion, both MPLS and SD-WAN are viable solutions for businesses looking to connect their remote sites and employees with reliable and secure networks. MPLS is a traditional solution that provides businesses with a dedicated, private connection and QoS features. On the other hand, SD-WAN is a newer solution that utilizes multiple connection types to provide enhanced performance, security, and flexibility. As a provider of network solutions, we can help you choose the right solution for your business and ensure that your network is optimised for success.