Navigating the complexities of Hybrid SD-WAN: How MSPs can be the Solution

 

 

 

 

 

David Nelson - Product Lead, Security and Connectivity

October 2023

by David Nelson – Product Lead, Security and Connectivity

The choices you make to navigate the complexities of modern data networking are not straightforward. For many, it’s a journey of transformation. One that takes you along a hybrid path. In this article, we explore some of the challenges you might face. 

Let’s start with what we mean by Hybrid SD-WAN. Essentially, it is a combination of SD-WAN and MPLS. This has become the go-to option for those aiming to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance.

However, managing this hybrid setup can be a daunting task.

This is where the skills and expertise of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can really help. They can offer expertise to streamline operations and often provide a single-pane-of-glass on to your networks.

Lets take a look at four areas to consider for a hybrid SD-WAN and how an MSP can provide the foundation for success.

Managing Multiple Technologies

When you opt for a Hybrid SD-WAN, you are committing your team to the challenge of managing SD-WAN and MPLS networks simultaneously.

Juggling multiple technologies can be overwhelming and when your team become overwhelmed, that’s when there is the potential for configuration errors and performance bottlenecks. 

An MSP’s role is crucial here. With the experience and tools needed to efficiently oversee the integration and management of these diverse technologies, they can really make a difference.

Maintel SASE network lady

Traffic Optimisation

Ensuring critical apps receive the necessary bandwidth while avoiding network congestion requires skilful traffic engineering. The complexity of a Hybrid SD-WAN can present a challenge for even the most experienced teams. 

MSPs excel at analysing network traffic patterns and adjusting routing policies to ensure optimal application performance, enhancing the end-user experience.

Security Posture

Protecting data as it traverses between the SD-WAN and MPLS components demands a comprehensive security strategy. 

It is important to implement advanced security measures. This should include encryption and firewall solutions to safeguard sensitive information across the hybrid network. As many organisations are painfully aware, this security competence can be difficult to recruit and retain.

Unified Management

The key to a successful Hybrid SD-WAN implementation lies in unified management.

A good MSP offers a centralised platform that enables organisations to monitor, configure, and troubleshoot their entire network from a single pane of glass.

A unified management platform will simplify operations, reduces the risk of errors, and enhances overall network visibility. If your chosen MSP has an in-house R&D team, then, that is a sign they are investing in the tools and automation needed to make sure you get the most from your network investment. 

Lets consider the situation of a restaurant chain with a sprawling network of 400 branches across the UK.

Following a series of consultations with an MSP, this restaurant chain has decided that to ensure seamless connectivity and optimal performance, they would adopt a Hybrid SD-WAN approach that would combine the reliability of their existing MPLS network with the flexibility of Cisco Meraki.

In this scenario, the challenges of managing both MPLS and Cisco Meraki SD-WAN become apparent.

MPLS, known for its reliability and security, serves as the backbone for critical applications that require a consistent and dedicated connection. On the other hand, Cisco Meraki SD-WAN offers agility and cost-efficiency by intelligently routing less critical traffic over cost-effective broadband connections.

Here’s how an MSP might step in to manage this complex setup:

IIntegration and Configuration

The restaurant company faces the task of integrating a robust MPLS  infrastructure with Cisco Meraki SD-WAN across its 400 branches. This involves configuring routing policies, Quality of Service (QoS) settings, and failover mechanisms to ensure smooth transitions between MPLS and SD-WAN.

Experienced engineers would leverage multi-vendor expertise to seamlessly bring them together. And with their experience and knowledge base in designing and implementing SASE for a wide range of organisations, overcome technical challenges and avoid hidden pitfalls. Their deep understanding of the technologies would allow them to make simple, yet effective decisions.

Thinking about the customers operations, an MSP could implement intelligent traffic routing, to ensure critical POS (point-of-sale) transactions were carried over a robust MPLS network, while less time-sensitive activities are directed through the SD-WAN solution. This meticulous configuration could minimise errors and bottlenecks that could otherwise impact the organisation’s operations.

And an MSP will look to determine the right technology for each site to optimise your budget. It may transpire that a small site with a single drop FTTC and specific requirements is better served with an FTTC MPLS circuit that could terminate on a low-cost CPE device rather than more costly SD-WAN. Decisions such as these can result in significant savings on a present value basis.

Single Pane of Glass Management

With a vast network spread across numerous branches, managing each device and connection individually becomes a complex undertaking. Here, the role of the MSP is pivotal. And what you would expect is access to a centralised platform that offers a holistic view of the network.

Traffic Optimisation

Given the company’s size and reach, optimising traffic flow is critical to maintaining excellent user experiences. Expert Network Engineers would analyse the nature of data traversing the network. High-priority transactions, such as credit card processing, require the reliability of MPLS, while non-critical tasks, like employee training videos, can utilise SD-WAN’s cost-effective pathways.

So, an MSP would set up intelligent policies that prioritise and route traffic based on its importance. This would ensure vital operations will remain uninterrupted while the network efficiently handles less critical activities.

Proactive Monitoring and Support

Network issues can arise unexpectedly and impact the entire restaurant chain. And the right MSP will offer local 24/7 monitoring and support, allowing expert network engineers to detect and address potential problems before they escalate.

For instance, in the unlikely event a branch’s MPLS connection experiences degradation, MSP monitoring systems would alert the customer. The team could then swiftly intervene to reroute traffic and ensure minimal disruption to the organisation’s operations.

By illustrating this example of a UK-based restaurant company, it becomes clear how a Managed Service Provider such as Maintel plays a crucial role in managing the intricacies of Hybrid SD-WAN. They effectively bridge the gap between MPLS and SD-WAN technologies, ensure seamless integration, and provide the tools and expertise necessary to navigate the challenges associated with such a complex network setup.

Enter the MSP as Your trusted Partner

Imagine having a trusted partner who not only understands the intricacies of Hybrid SD-WAN networks but also anticipates challenges before they arise. 

An MSP is precisely that partner, bringing a range of benefits that extend beyond technical expertise.

Expertise and Experience

MSPs specialise in complex networking solutions. Their teams consist of professionals well-versed in hybrid SD-WAN architecture, allowing them to design, implement, and manage your network with a high level of proficiency.

If you have already invested in MPLS, an integrated Hybrid approach offers a way to maximise your investment and the opportunity for a seamless migration to full SD-WAN at the right pace, or as your sites come out of contract thus reducing dual running costs.

Tailored Solutions

An MSP must have the skills to customise a hybrid SD-WAN setup to align with your specific needs. These skills are employed to ensure critical apps receive priority, and resources are allocated optimally.

For larger networks with multiple branch offices, sometimes one technology does not fit all sites. You should expect an experienced MSP to have the skills to combine SD-WAN technologies (for example, Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN and Meraki SD-WAN), into a cost-effective solution; one that is fit for purpose by site, rather than having to level all sites up to the maximum requirement.

24/7 Monitoring and Support

Network issues can arise at any time. A good MSP will offer round-the-clock monitoring and support form an in-country team, quickly identifying and resolving potential problems to minimise downtime and ensure consistent connectivity.

Proactive Management

An MSP will adopt a proactive approach to network management. They will continuously analyse performance metrics, identify trends, and adjust prevent issues before they escalate. This proactive stance helps maintain a reliable network environment.

Security Enhancement

The security landscape is ever evolving, and MSPs are well-equipped to address emerging threats. By implementing robust security protocols, they safeguard your hybrid SD-WAN from potential vulnerabilities.

Cost Efficiency

Building and managing an in-house team capable of handling hybrid SD-WAN complexities can be financially draining. Partnering with an experienced MSP eliminates this burden, offering a cost-effective solution while ensuring outstanding service quality.

Partnering for Success

Navigating the complexities of hybrid SD-WAN demands a strategic approach, combining the benefits of SD-WAN and MPLS while addressing challenges head-on.

MSPs such as Maintel emerge as indispensable allies, bringing expertise to the table to streamline operations, enhance security, and optimise performance.

With the ability to easily manage multiple technologies, Maintel ensures your hybrid SD-WAN implementation is not only successful but also future-ready.

Embrace the power of an experienced MSP and a robust and resilient hybrid SD-WAN infrastructure.

Your Next Step

At Maintel, we believe that a well-executed integration sets the stage for enhanced security, improved performance, and optimised user experiences.

Contact us today and explore how you can transform your SASE journey into a story of success.

Together, we’ll navigate the complexities and ensure that your organisation emerges stronger, more secure, and better equipped for the digital challenges of tomorrow.
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