Introduction to Aruba SD-WAN and Branch
Aruba’s SD-WAN solutions include the right mix of software and components to implement a service-provider-independent wide-area network (WAN) that delivers enterprise-level performance and security across a disparate range of technologies and devices.
With SD-WAN, organizations can convert mission-critical applications into multiple cloud-based services so employees can work and collaborate effectively from any location. Cloud applications are secure, fast and reliable, but the WAN connections used to access them must be optimized and automated for maximum availability, productivity, and efficiency.
SD-WAN significantly enhances network capabilities for organizations with widely distributed locations and a wide range business priorities and IT needs.
Organizations often operate multiple distributed, heterogeneous networks with small centralized teams. Distributed networks require many services reliant on the WAN connectivity. Branch networks require wired and wireless LANs, security and policy enforcement, multiple levels of access for different user groups, efficient management of multiple applications with various functions, and the flexibility to change or expand a branch’s infrastructure as new technology develops.
SD-Branch extends the benefits of SD-WAN operation to branch deployment, operation and maintenance. SD-Branch delivers a full-stack solution that includes SD-LAN, artificial intelligence, and security to address network connectivity needs at all levels.
Migration to SD-WAN resolves many immediate network and IT challenges cost effectively and efficiently. However, it is important to consider overall technology goals and develop strategies to meet current business requirements and align with long-term financial and organizational goals:
Purchase as much WAN bandwidth as possible to alleviate potential bottlenecks during the busiest times of the day and allow for continued traffic growth.
Increase Internet bandwidth instead of buying additional private bandwidth to support.
Use cloud-based tools to simplify the configuration, operation, and management of the WAN.
Purpose of This Guide
This design guide provides information and guidance for designing SD-WAN in the Edge Services Platform (ESP) architecture and associated hardware and software components. The guide provides an explanation of the requirements that shape the design and benefits for the organization. Example architecture designs are provided for additional reference.
The guide uses an example of a single unified infrastructure that integrates headend gateways, branch gateways, switches, access points, cloud-based orchestration, artificial intelligence, and network management with access-control and traffic-control policies.