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Don’t let technology dictate your network modernisation. Use the right mix of SDN, SD-WAN and 5G for rapid and secure delivery
Take a look at SD-WAN, SDN and 5G as options for tomorrow’s enterprise networking and some of the best practices and use cases.
Efficient, secure and scalable enterprise networks are imperative for businesses managing growing information sources, from the data centre to the mobile device.
In this blog we’ll take a look at SD-WAN, SDN and 5G as options for tomorrow’s enterprise networking.
Today’s networks present the challenge of having to play “catch up” with high-speed last mile access and a lack of planning for what networks can do for business. Although the NBN is nearing completion, what is on offer in many locations is still far behind typical enterprise requirements.
Despite the challenges, Australian businesses are well placed to take advantage of emerging technology and intelligent network solutions to improve their network maturity and capability.
For example, traditional networks typically take a long time to procure and set up, but with the right technology you can “dropship” equipment in for a network deployment and expedite the installation process.
What steps can you take to determine the best approach to network modernisation? Start with a holistic approach to building network systems and solutions around the business requirements, rather than the other way around. This is still something many organisations fail to do.
Private fixed-line services still have their place where guaranteed internet is required, but emerging technologies are transforming the networking market and enabling businesses to facilitate digital transformation.
Software-defined networking allows commodity devices to replace dedicated appliances; SD-WAN brings this concept to Wide Area Networks; and 5G mobile networks are pushing mobile bandwidth speeds into the gigabit range. SD-WAN uses a combination of perimeter edge devices and virtual appliances in the data centre for aggregation.
Emerging network technology use cases include:
SD-WAN also improves security with native firewalling capability.
5G is set to revolutionise how businesses use both mobile and fixed-line services. As networks roll out, in many locations 5G will offer a lot more bandwidth that what is available from a proximate fixed line service.
The option of 5G will impact network and data architectures and the technology will bring many benefits, including zero lead time for provisioning.
It will also go a long way to removing long-term contracts and large relocation fees associated with fixed line services.
5G can suffer contention like any form of wireless, so discover the business requirements up-front and plan appropriately.
Engaging with an MSP can help you take control of your current and future network requirements.
In the case of SD-WAN, it is often marketed as a technology to “solve all your problems”, but it is not always the most appropriate option and a reputable MSP will be clear about this.
By starting with a proper architecture aligned to the delivery requirements and end-user experience requirements (including security), an MSP will provide you with an agnostic view of your architecture and technology options.
Your future network should align to fit the purpose, and technology should not dictate a blanket view.
Moreover, an MSP can monitor and incident-manage the whole network, and provide site provisioning and de-provisioning activities.
The future of enterprise networking is here, and the best outcomes will be powered by a mix of faster, smarter fixed line and mobile network technology solutions.
Need a fresh approach to your network? Get in touch with Tecala and our experts will help modernise your network business solutions for a digital future.
By analysing your specific needs and priorities, we’ll give you a realistic and practical recommendation on what’s required to accelerate your modern architecture.
Our Senior Consultants will help you evaluate and understand your options, so you can make decisions that benefit both your business and your employees, while mitigating unnecessary risk.
Combining Strategy, Transformation, Management and Optimisation, we identify and remove the obstacles to a successful outcome, before you even know they’re there.
Step 1: Recap and review
Together we’ll examine the steps you’ve already taken in IT procurement and review the parameters for the architecture planning you’ll need in place going forward.
Step 2: Shape the
plan
Future planning for optimal performance, focusing on effective communication and collaboration, device lifecycle and configuration management and security.
Step 3: Identify your requirements
This is where we clearly identify the steps you need to have in place to develop your Strategic Technology Roadmap to create a Modern Dynamic Workplace.
Step 4: Get the
report
You’ll receive a high-level report with our recommendations to accelerate your modern architecture, and the next steps for delivering your Strategic Technology Roadmap.
With a high-level plan in place, you’ll have a clear understanding on the business case, benefits, and high-level budget considerations for your technology platform to accelerate your modern architecture. And you’ll be ready to leverage the Cloud to deliver the services and applications your teams need.
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There’s nothing like a one in 100-year pandemic to test how your IT operations are performing and how prepared you are for change.
