Home - Software - An Overview Of SD-WAN Technology

An Overview of SD-WAN Technology

An Overview of SD-WAN Technology

There have been significant changes in technology in the past few years. These not only aim to make life easier but also provide us with services that are easy to use, improve connectivity, and help us manage the most important thing, data. Enter software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN), a software approach that enhances data management in wide-area networks at reduced costs. It also offers network security and simplifies the existing WAN architecture. 

What is SD-WAN?
Software-defined wide-area networks (SD-WAN) employ software such as firewall software, software-driven network encryption, and internet-relying communication tunnels to control the management of services between various data centers, cloud instances, and branches, all while maintaining their connectivity. It aims to simplify how companies function, manage and share their data and, in the process, also save them a lot of money. 

Benefits of SD-WAN
The most traditional approach of businesses to WAN was previously limited to data centers, branches, and enterprises. Still, with the introduction of cloud-based applications, it has become extremely difficult for them to control the amount of traffic accessing the data applications worldwide. With SD-WAN, this becomes easier as it provides threat protection, simplified management of the WAN, and other business benefits such as: 

Higher security
As various business organizations embrace new technologies, it has also brought them various problems in the shape of cyber crimes. But most SD-WAN solutions offer built-in services, including software security solutions that help keep the data safe and improve its security for the users with next-generation firewalls, data encryption, intrusion prevention systems, etc. Additionally, more features are available that prevent data loss, legal liabilities, and downtime. 

Greater agility of network
SD-WAN users can easily configure it to meet their needs and even steer business traffic through the most efficient routes. This can be done by prioritizing services such as voice over internet protocol ( VoIP). The flexibility offered by SD-WAN allows users to change the bandwidth access provided by the internet service provider to match the real-time demand. Some of the other techniques used by SD-WAN for greater agility include data compression, secure sockets layer, and data de-deduplication. 

Lesser operational costs
The improved technology offered by SD-WAN also allows self-managed procedures and even automation to enable organizations to reduce the number of external IT experts that help carry out maintenance and periodic tests. This makes SD-WAN a service software that proves to be highly cost-effective in the long run while also empowering the organization to set up branches at any location and even online in a reduced period of time and costs. 

Reduced complexity of data
Small businesses possess limited resources and funds that need to be efficiently allocated. With their continuous usage of cloud-based, edge, and local services, network complexity becomes one of the problems at the top of the list. This might necessitate the hiring of IT specialists on-site, which might lead to increased costs. SD-WAN offers a solution for this issue by altering and managing various data types to ensure enough bandwidth is allocated. The users themselves can also configure service software such as SD-WAN to prioritize critical traffic through the most efficient path to improve performance.

Different types of SD-WAN deployment models
SD-WAN deployment offers to securely connect a distributed network of remote locations and branches to enable the sharing of data via the shortest path without going through the public internet. When opting for SD-WAN, there are usually 3 deployment options that are made available, and they are: 

Do-it-yourself (DIY) model
The DIY SD-WAN deployment model gives the organization complete control over its networks. This is suitable for large-scale companies with the necessary resources available at their disposal with the required technical knowledge to configure and deploy the networks promptly. This also comprises dealing with any issues that may be faced during the installation and deployment. They will also be responsible for the maintenance of the SD-WAN equipment along with the software and network connections. 

Managed SD-WAN model
In this SD-WAN deployment model, the providers offer not only the necessary equipment but also the required personnel who will assist in the installation process all the way up to the completion. This is most suitable for small and medium-scale companies that cannot avail of full-time resources for this purpose. It will also entail the procurement of necessary access links and the handling of the day-to-day operations for the organization. This also offers these companies a good medium to not only manage their data but also begin their transition to software-defined networking. Also, it gives them the chance to study and learn more about SD-WAN, its features, benefits, and intricacies to get good quality performance from networks and applications scattered across various WAN locations.

Hybrid model
Another SD-WAN deployment model that organizations can avail of is the hybrid model. This gives them the right blend between their resources and the ones offered by the provider. It also offers a wide degree of flexibility in creating the kind of network they need. This model is usually managed by both the organization and the service provider. It also gives an additional benefit where the existing multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) does not need to be stripped off completely to help the company retain a few pipelines to receive and transmit data. In addition, the service provider would also be responsible for managing customer experience, providing guarantees, and handling connectivity.

One of the best in the business is SonicWall, which aids organizations in reducing their costs without compromising on the consistent and secure performance of applications critical for the business. SonicWall also offers features such as the Secure SD-WAN technology that allows distributed companies to operate, build and manage high-performing and secure networks by employing low-cost internet services such as cable, DSL, and even 3G/4G.

Previous Read

3 Reasons to Choose the Google Pixel 6 Series

Google launched its popular smartphone series in October 2021: the Google Pixel 6 and the Google Pixel 6 Pro. Many reviewers believe it is the most significant update since the launch of Pixel. These phones compete with premium offerings from competitors, like the iPhone 13 series and the Samsung Galaxy S21 series. But does the latest smartphone live up to the hype? A look at the features can help you decide. Enhanced design At first glance, you will notice Google's new design approach on both the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 6 Pro. They seem to have discontinued the plastic back with a square camera array at the top corner. Instead, the devices now have a glass back with a horizontal camera bar that holds the lenses and flashlight. The choice of colors varies depending on the model you pick. While the Pixel 6 is available in Stormy Black, Kinda Coral, and Sorta Seafoam, the advanced 6 Pro features in Stormy Black, Sorta Sunny, and Cloudy White. Better specifications Leading carriers like Verizon offer 5G connectivity for both the Pixel 6 and the 6 Pro, making 5G the default network choice. Apart from that, here are the individual features and specifications that make these devices attractive: Google Pixel 6 The Google Pixel 6 5G smartphone is beautifully designed. At 6.4 inches, the display is neither too big nor too small. It is larger than the latest iPhone 13 but less than OnePlus 9. The FHD+ OLED screen with an adaptive refresh rate of 90 Hz is great for smooth scrolling and gameplay. The best advantage is that the refresh rate can be reduced to 60 Hz to preserve the battery. At the back, the Pixel 6 has an upgraded rear camera array. The primary wide-angle camera is now 50 MP, up from a mere 12 MP. The front camera is 8 MP. Under the hood, it packs 8 GB of RAM, the Google Tensor CPU, and the Titan M2™ security coprocessor. The performance of the Tensor chip is said to be 80 percent faster than any other previously used in a Pixel phone. It may not be a tall claim, but reviewers and first-time users have not complained of sluggishness when multitasking. The new animations by Android 12 are also fluid and do not stutter. The phone has several new software tricks integrated for both everyday use and enhanced photos. One such feature in both Pixel phones is the Magic Eraser that you can use to remove unwanted items in a photo automatically or by simply circling the object. While the edits may appear obvious, they are certainly handy in excluding unnecessary elements. The Pixel 6 comes with storage options of 128 GB and 256 GB, allowing you to store your favorite photos and download games and apps without worrying. The battery capacity is 4614 mAh. Google Pixel 6 Pro If you are a Pixel fan but want more than what the above Google Pixel 6 5G smartphone offers, the Pro version may be suitable. It has a larger screen at 6.7 inches with a QHD+ OLED display. While the Pixel 6 has a refresh rate of up to 90 Hz, this one offers up to 120 Hz for an even smoother scrolling and gaming experience. You can reduce the refresh rate to 90 Hz to preserve battery life. The device has an additional 48 MP telephoto lens in its rear camera array, and the front camera is 11.1 MP. The quality of photos in the latest Pixel series has improved. Portrait pictures can differentiate between the foreground and background more consistently than its predecessors. Also, the pictures are more life-like, an approach that leading brands take with their flagship cellphones. The Pixel 6 Pro has 12 GB of RAM powered by the Titan M2™ security coprocessor. If you are looking for more significant storage, there is a 512 GB option, unlike the Pixel 6, which only offers 128 GB and 256 GB. The estimated battery size is 5003 mAh. Improved operating system The latest Android update makes Google Pixel 6 5G a smart cellphone. Android 12 feels like the OS has moved a step forward. You not only receive a long and attractive list of new features, but the design approach is also welcoming. Some fresh features make it fun to use your phone. For instance, an animation makes the screen gradually fade and turn into a power button when you lock your phone or put it to sleep. A similar effect is applied when closing an app and returning to the home screen. The new OS also brings many new privacy features. For instance, the device sends notifications or prompts when an app is accessing your phone's camera or microphone. In addition, a privacy dashboard shows how frequently these apps are using personal information and suggests ways to secure your account. You can also control how you wish to share your location information with an app. If you are interested in purchasing these phones, they are available on the official website and in leading gadget stores. Do not forget to look for offers on Google Pixel 6 5G smartphones. Some retailers allow you to trade in an old phone for credit. All you need to do is bring the used phone during purchase. Then based on its condition, the store offers a discount on the new phone. Apart from this, network carriers offer beneficial deals and financing options.

Next Read

The Importance and Types of Enterprise Cloud and Popular Services

Most companies are looking to digitally transform their operations with cloud computing, and enterprise cloud is the solution. Enterprise cloud is a unified digital environment, which allows the management and monitoring of a company's public cloud, private cloud, and distributed cloud operations. It allows companies to manage their IT infrastructure and applications in any cloud. Here are some of it's benefits, types, and some popular cloud platform services, including the SAP HANA enterprise cloud. Importance of Enterprise Cloud Enterprise cloud platform services, such as the SAP HANA enterprise cloud platform, are widely used across several sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and financial management. Additionally, nearly all federal agencies and government offices use cloud computing to streamline their operations and provide efficient public service. So, why are these platforms so popular? Read on to know some of the reasons: Unmatched operational speed An enterprise cloud service like SAP HANA stores and retrieves data from the Random Access Memory (RAM) instead of a hard storage drive. As a result, the enterprise cloud platform can resolve queries and process computational operations in milliseconds. Therefore, even large-scale operations can be executed in quickly using the SAP enterprise cloud. This not only improves the operational efficiency of organizations but also helps them virtualize data in the blink of an eye. Complete data management Enterprise cloud services provide a host of database management solutions to companies. Such services simplify and, more importantly, unify companies' IT environments and operations across private, public, hybrid, and other clouds. For example, the SAP HANA enterprise cloud platform offers database administration services to enterprises. So, organizations can continuously monitor and optimize all the data in their SAP enterprise cloud. This ensures that their data is secure and always accessible. Unmatched scalability Most businesses use cloud platform services to speed up their growth and diversification. Enterprise cloud platforms ensure smooth growth for such businesses by scaling up their data storage, data access, and data processing to magnify the scope of their data collection, processing, and operational execution. For example, one of the main benefits of using SAP enterprise cloud services is the platform's ability to provide scalability based on associated data volume across different network environments and concurrent users. Involves artificial intelligence Enterprise cloud platforms use machine learning to increase productivity, boost data dynamism, automate processes, and, most importantly, improve your customers' experience. Such platforms allow companies to integrate AI capabilities into third-party applications and operations as well. Types of cloud platform services There are multiple types of cloud computing services. Three of the most common ones are: Infrastructure-as-a-Service IaaS-based cloud platform service providers manage your IT infrastructure for you — including your data storage, virtualization, network, servers, and other functions — through a secure internet connection. Companies essentially rent the infrastructure of the service provider, and access it through an Application Programming Interface (API) or a unified data dashboard. In IaaS, companies manage things such as their apps, operating system, and middleware. On the other hand, the enterprise cloud service provider handles any hardware, hard drives, data storage, networking, and data servers for the user company. Platform-as-a-Service In PaaS, the cloud platform services provider offers an application-software platform and the hardware for companies to carry out their cloud-based operations. Service-availing companies can handle the apps running on top of such a platform and the data their apps rely on. In simple terms, PaaS provides users with a shared cloud platform to develop and manage their apps. The main benefit of such platforms is that companies do not have to build or maintain an infrastructure to optimize their cloud operations and work apps. Software-as-a-Service In SaaS, the service provider delivers a software application—which it manages for companies—for its users to run their cloud operations. Generally, SaaS applications are mobile apps or web-based apps that companies can access or use through a web browser. The cloud service provider takes care of software updates, bug fixes, and general maintenance of the software application for users. The application is normally connected to the cloud applications and operations of companies through an API or a unified dashboard. The biggest advantage of SaaS services is that it removes the need for companies to have an app installed locally on their computers, thereby simplifying team or group access to the core SaaS software application. Popular cloud platform services You can choose from a wide range of alternatives when it comes to enterprise cloud services. Some popular options include: SAP HANA Enterprise Cloud Platform The SAP HANA enterprise cloud platform is a subscription-based, fully-managed cloud service. The service provider (SAP enterprise cloud) handles the operation of the cloud software management and maintenance, allowing the customer to focus on their core business operations and continuity. Additionally, the platform takes care of the integration of functions such as system and interface monitoring, business process monitoring, and application lifecycle management by connecting SAP HANA Enterprise Cloud (HEC) to the on-premise SAP Solution Manager for companies. After establishing such a connection, the setup of basic scenarios and processes on the cloud platform is simplified for companies. Microsoft Azure Microsoft Azure, along with Microsoft's Software-as-a-Service efforts, is a strong and renowned player in the enterprise cloud ecosystem. Azure is an important component of Microsoft's cloud business operations. While Azure is normally classified as an IaaS player, it has several SaaS qualities as well, such as the fact that most of the company's revenue comes from Microsoft Office, Dynamics, and other software-based cloud services. Microsoft Azure employs AI and machine learning to optimize its services and provide solid-edge computing flexibility to companies. IBM IBM offers companies operational acceleration through their hybrid and multicloud platform to create growth opportunities across the IT ecosystem of companies. Among their other enterprise cloud services, IBM offers on-premise infrastructure services, trained and experienced developers for assistance, and other features to optimize the mission-critical operations of companies.

Trending Articles

01

Essential Points and Services to Consider for Gutter Protection

Renovation and upgrades are not just limited to the aesthetic changes around the house. It also includes the necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure there are no unnoticed damages that could worsen with time. Rain gutters collect all the water and provide a proper outlet flow to prevent leaks during a heavy pour. And gutter protection systems ensure these drainage outlets operate efficiently. Here are essential points to consider before installing these systems. Gutter guards function as a primary filter Protective covers prevent leaves, mud, sticks, and even smaller rodents or pests from washing into the small opening designed for water collection. This helps lower the cost of maintenance significantly, as you do not have to frequently clean these outlets. Most guards have a crisscross mesh pattern that allows only liquids to flow into the drainage system. With protective covers installed, you spend no more than a couple of hundred dollars to have the entire system serviced twice a year. Long-term utility benefits When water flows freely within the drainage system, it reduces the risk of pooling or overflowing and ultimately leaking. Water pooling, if left unchecked, can also damage the structural integrity of the home. Moreover, dirty, backed-up rainwater becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other parasites, increasing the risk of infection.
02

How to Choose the Best Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses Online

Contact lens users can choose from a range of categories of lenses. Among the different types, a popular choice is monthly disposable contact lenses, requiring minimum cleaning and easy handling. You can wear a pair of monthly lenses for 30 days before replacing it. But with several options available online, it can be challenging to find a suitable pick. For your convenience, we’ve discussed a few things you can consider before buying disposable lenses online. Popular monthly disposable lenses available online Purchasing a pair of high-quality contact lenses is imperative to ensure good eye health. We have listed six popular lenses from different brands that you can pick from online. Note that each lens for your left and right eye is designed based on a prescription from an eye doctor. Alcon AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY®AQUA® Approved by the FDA, the AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY®AQUA® flexible lenses are designed to sit comfortably in the eyes for 30 consecutive days and nights as you can sleep in these lenses. A box of six lenses costs about $95.99. The product boasts a SMARTSHIELD® Technology – a protective layer of moisture that repels unwanted deposits that may irritate the eye. Moreover, it is one of the softest and most breathable lens options.
03

Tips to Get the Best Deal for a Junk Car

It might be difficult to sell your beloved trusty old commuter car due to its frequent repairs. However, car selling can help you get an extra slice of income, even if it is junk. Statistics suggest that selling your junk car to the auto recycling industry contributes at least $25 billion per year to the national GDP. So, read this article if you are looking to sell your car to a junkyard for some extra cash. Know your car’s true value You will be surprised to know the worth of a junk car as it stands stationed in your garage, gathering dust. There are multiple services and history-based value tools available online that can help you get an estimate of your old car. A thorough evaluation can help you get a good deal, especially if you are looking to sell your car to a junkyard for cash. If your car is inoperable, gathering rust and dust in your garage, consider selling it to auto salvage yards or junkyards. These yards might not offer a higher price, but you can certainly earn some profit by selling your junk car to them. Ask around or look online for the best auto salvage yards that offer you a good deal.
04

Top 7 Healthy Energy Bars

With energy bars gaining immense popularity, it comes as no surprise that their market is expected to grow by $1.09 billion this decade in the continent alone. These protein bars have become the go-to choice for a quick and healthy snack as people become increasingly conscious about their food choices. These nutritious mini-meals are highly preferred by young people and athletes alike. Let’s look at some of the leading healthy options for you. Boom If you are among those who love to start their day with a caffeine kick, Boom bars help you just the right amount of that jolt. A single energy bar contains about 150mg of caffeine, which is more than that in a single espresso shot or a regular cup of coffee. Not only that, but they also contain 11g of protein, making it a filling snack. Understandably, they cater to a niche market that specifically enjoys the deliciousness of edible coffee. Boom focuses on highlighting why eating caffeine makes for a smoother experience than simply drinking it. A box of 7 bars costs about $24.  GoMacro These are vegan bars made from sustainably sourced ingredients. These healthy energy bars are organic, Kosher, gluten-free, non-GMO, and even soy-free.

Our Blogs

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Braces are the go-to option most people choose for straightening teeth and jaws. This treatment provides aesthetic benefits, helps improve oral health, and relieves pressure from the joints. Traditionally, the base material used to be metal, but the latest developments in dental technology have given us a new option. This article gives you in-depth details about what makes invisible braces so popular, how much these products cost, and the best brands. What are invisible braces? Invisible braces, commonly known as clear aligners, are transparent dental trays that are used to correct your bite. These trays are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. As the teeth shift, you have to make a new invisible tray every one or two weeks. Invisible braces are quite similar to retainers, but the former is used the slowly align your teeth while the latter keeps your teeth in place. Benefits The biggest benefit of invisible braces that’s quite evident at first sight is the fact that they are transparent. Factors like the lack of wires, bands, and brackets make these braces suitable for people of all ages, especially adults. Unlike the metal and ceramic counterparts, these braces can be removed at any time, which makes them easy to clean as well.
Read More
Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Those suffering from an overactive bladder experience an increased urge to urinate. Such an uncontrollable need significantly compromises one’s quality of life. Issues that arise from this condition may lead the patient to compromise or rearrange their daily routine around their diagnosis. One may even suffer from bladder-related symptoms due to complications from other diseases like diabetes. This article highlights the significant causes as well as management techniques of an overactive bladder in patients: Causes Overactive bladder can result from various reasons such as unhealthy lifestyle choices, age, and underlying health conditions. Here are some of the common causes that lead to the development of this urological condition:  Poor pelvic muscle strength Pelvic muscles provide the lower abdomen with the necessary support. As a person ages, their muscles tend to lose strength. Weak muscles are, thus, a common causative factor that leads to the development of an overactive bladder. Factors like pregnancy and childbirth are also known to weaken the pelvic floor muscles.    Nerve damage This cause of an overactive bladder is quite common as the nerves can sustain damage from conditions like multiple sclerosis and herniated discs. This damage affects the signal transfer among the brain and other body parts, including the bladder.
Read More
Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

A medical alert system consists of life-saving devices that instantly connect the user with emergency help with the push of a button. Such equipment helps seniors live independently and offers peace of mind to their loved ones and caregivers. A good-quality life alert system for seniors has several useful medical features like fall detection, GPS tracking, and professional monitoring. In this article, we’ve listed the best medical alert systems for seniors out there today. Medical Guardian Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is known for designing best-in-class life alert devices and systems. Depending on the lifestyle of a senior individual, they can choose between different types of On-The-Go and In-House systems. Almost every Medical Guardian life alert system for seniors features its state-of-the-art fall detection technology, along with other essential features like GPS location tracking, extra neck/wrist buttons, and water resistance. This company’s medical alert products have the longest battery life (up to 168 hours) and furthest signal range (up to 1300 feet) compared to any other product on the market. Medical Guardian also has a highly reliable monitoring center that operates 24/7. Bay Alarm Medical With over 70 years of experience in life alert devices, Bay Alarm Medical is one of the most trusted providers in the country.
Read More
Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

The ability of dentures or implants to mimic natural teeth is so impressive that it has changed millions of lives worldwide. These prosthetics are used when natural teeth have significant issues. With a little maintenance, they can be an efficient and long-lasting solution. So, if you are planning to get them yourself, the following article can help you know the factors to consider and the prices of dental implants and dentures. How do dental implants work? Before discussing dental implant prices, it is essential to understand how they work. Dental implants consist of three different pieces that serve distinct functions, as given below: Implant post Also known as the fixture, this small, cylindrical screw acts as an artificial root for the tooth. Abutment This piece connects the implant post and the crown. There are various types of abutments depending on the prosthetic type requiring support. Crown The final piece of the entire prosthetic, the crown rests on the top of the abutment. It can be made from porcelain, metal, resin, or ceramics. Porcelain or ceramic crowns look the most natural. Costs of dental implants Depending on one’s needs, there are four types of dental implants. Given below are average costs for the same:
Read More
Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

If your teeth alignment has always made you conscious of your smile, you need to address the issue. Crowded or crooked teeth and crossbites can majorly affect your facial profile and the way you chew your food. The insecurity and complications of a crossbite only grow with age. If you’re contemplating ways to align your teeth, and you want to achieve that without braces, you’ve come to the right place.  This article discusses teeth alignment options that are possible without prominent braces. Invisalign It is one of the most popular ways of teeth alignment without braces. The treatment involves using a set of clear retainer trays made to fit the moving teeth. You will be given a set of new retainer trays every two weeks to make the desired changes. They can be removed when eating, but one needs to ensure they have them on for at least 22 hours in a day. The treatment tenure depends on the severity of the case and takes approximately around 12 to 24 months to align teeth. Advantages They are invisible, so you won’t have to avoid social gatherings or feel awkward They are removable, which makes cleaning the trays and teeth easy  These can be removed when having a meal, which means fewer restrictions when eating Disadvantages Invisalign is a more expensive option  The flexibility of removing trays can elongate the treatment if not worn for prescribed hours  Some may develop a lisp or speak awkwardly with trays Inman Aligner This is another efficient way of teeth alignment without braces.
Read More
Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung disease that occurs when the lung tissue is damaged and scarred. The scarring leads to thickened, stiff tissues and makes it difficult for the lungs to work efficiently. Several factors may cause pulmonary fibrosis. However, doctors cannot assess what triggers the condition. While the damage to the lungs is irreversible, there are several remedies that can help. So here are the signs of pulmonary fibrosis and some remedies. The signs of pulmonary fibrosis Before getting into the remedies of the condition, let’s learn about the signs of pulmonary fibrosis. Doing so can ensure proper diagnoses and care at the earliest. The first sign of pulmonary fibrosis is getting out of breath. The symptom occurs when the person exerts themselves through physical exercise. When the condition progresses, the affected individual may find it hard to breathe even with little to no physical activity. Older people who experience shortness of breath often confuse the condition as a sign of aging, failing to diagnose the disease early. Other signs of pulmonary fibrosis include: A dry cough. The sudden loss of weight. Fatigue. Pain in the muscles and joints. Clubbing, a condition that results in the widening and rounding at the tips of the fingers or toes.
Read More