SD WAN Architecture & Technology | Everything You Need to Know

Published: 5 Mar 2025

SD WAN Architecture

SD-WAN architecture is transforming how businesses manage their networks, replacing traditional WAN with a smarter, more flexible solution. Yet, many companies struggle to understand how it works. Does it replace MPLS or enhance it? Slow connections, high costs, and complex setups frustrate IT teams, making network management a challenge. Imagine a system that optimizes traffic, boosts security, and reduces costs all while simplifying operations. That’s exactly what SD-WAN architecture delivers.

Table of Content

SD WAN Architecture
Types of SD-WAN Architecture
Key Components of SD-WAN Architecture
Advantages of SD-WAN Architecture
Disadvantages of SD-WAN Architecture
SD WAN Technology
What is SD WAN Technology
How Does SD WAN Work
SD WAN VS Traditional WAN
Conclusion About SD-WAN Architecture
FAQS

Types of SD-WAN Architecture

SD-WAN architecture comes in different types, each designed to meet specific networking needs. Here are the main types:

Hybrid SD-WAN
On-Premises SD-WAN
Managed SD-WAN
Cloud-Based SD-WAN

On-Premises SD-WAN

On-Premises SD-WAN is installed and managed within a company’s network, giving full control over security and performance. It works best for businesses with strict data privacy needs.

Example: A bank uses On-Premises SD-WAN to secure customer transactions without relying on external cloud services.

Cloud-Based SD-WAN

Cloud-Based SD-WAN is hosted and managed in the cloud, making it easy to connect branch offices and remote users. It reduces hardware costs and simplifies network management.

Example: An e-commerce company uses Cloud-Based SD-WAN to ensure fast and secure access to its online store for customers worldwide.

Hybrid SD-WAN

Hybrid SD-WAN combines on-premises and cloud-based solutions, offering both control and flexibility. It helps businesses balance security, performance, and cost.

Example: A hospital uses Hybrid SD-WAN to keep patient records secure on-site while allowing cloud access for remote doctors.

Managed SD-WAN

Managed SD-WAN is fully handled by a service provider, reducing the need for in-house IT management. It ensures easy setup, monitoring, and maintenance.

Example: A retail chain uses Managed SD-WAN to connect all its stores without needing an in-house IT team.

Key Components of SD-WAN Architecture

The key components of SD-WAN architecture work together to improve network performance, security, and reliability while simplifying management.

SD-WAN Edge Devices: Connects branch offices to the SD-WAN network.
SD-WAN Controller: Manages and controls the entire SD-WAN setup.
Orchestra tor: Automates policies, configurations, and updates.
Overlay Network: Creates a virtual network over existing connections.
Underlay Network: The physical internet, MPLS, LTE, or broadband used for transport.
Traffic Steering: Directs data along the best possible path.
Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritizes critical applications for smooth performance.
Security Features: Includes encryption, firewalls, and Zero Trust security.
Application Awareness: Recognizes and optimizes traffic for different apps.
Cloud Integration: Seamlessly connects to cloud services like AWS and Azure.

Advantages of SD-WAN Architecture

Better Performance: Prioritizes critical applications for smoother and faster connectivity.
Cost Savings: Reduces dependence on expensive MPLS by using affordable internet connections.
Enhanced Security: Built-in encryption, firewalls, and Zero Trust policies protect data.

Disadvantages of SD-WAN Architecture

Deployment Complexity: Initial setup and integration with existing networks can be challenging.
Security Risks: If not configured properly, SD-WAN can create vulnerabilities.
Internet Dependence: Performance relies on the quality of the internet connection.

SD WAN Technology

SD-WAN Technology is transforming how businesses manage networks, with over 60% of enterprises adopting it for better performance and cost savings. But is traditional WAN still reliable, or is SD-WAN the smarter choice? Many companies struggle with slow connections, high costs, and complex network management—SD-WAN simplifies it all. Imagine a network that adapts in real time, optimizes cloud apps, and boosts security—that’s the power of SD-WAN!

What is SD WAN Technology

SD-WAN is a modern way to manage networks using software. It improves speed, security, and reliability by choosing the best path for data. Businesses use SD-WAN to cut costs and boost performance.

How Does SD WAN Work

SD-WAN works by using software to control how data moves across a network. It picks the fastest and most reliable path for internet traffic, improving speed and performance. It also has built-in security to protect data and makes network management easier for businesses.

SD WAN VS Traditional WAN

SD-WAN	Traditional WAN
A software-driven network that manages traffic intelligently.	A hardware-based network that relies on fixed paths.
Cloud-based businesses using multiple locations.	Banks using private MPLS connections.
Lower, uses broadband internet.	Higher, depends on expensive MPLS links.
Optimizes traffic for faster speeds.	Slower due to fixed routing paths.
Adapts to different internet connections (4G, 5G, broadband).	Limited to specific circuits.
Built-in encryption, firewalls, and threat protection.	Requires additional security tools.
Optimized for cloud apps like Microsoft 365 and Zoom.	Not designed for cloud performance.
Easily expands to multiple locations.	Difficult and costly to scale.
Centralized control via a software dashboard.	Managed manually with hardware at each site.
Smart routing ensures better uptime and stability.	Prone to delays and downtime.
Quick deployment with minimal hardware.	Lengthy setup with complex configurations.
Chooses the best path in real time.	Uses fixed routes, even if slow.

Conclusion About SD-WAN Architecture

SD WAN architecture and technology are transforming business networks with better security, flexibility, and cost savings. Based on my experience, adopting SD WAN can greatly enhance performance, especially for companies with multiple locations. If you’re considering SD WAN, start by evaluating your network needs and choosing a reliable provider. Want to learn more? Explore the latest SD WAN solutions today!

FAQS

Is SD-WAN a software?

Yes, SD-WAN is software-based, but it also works with hardware. It controls network traffic using software instead of traditional routers.

How old is SD-WAN technology?

SD-WAN technology started around 2013 and became popular by 2015 as businesses needed better network solutions.

What architecture is SD-WAN?

SD-WAN follows a decentralized architecture, using software to manage network traffic across multiple locations efficiently.

What is WAN architecture?

WAN (Wide Area Network) architecture connects multiple locations using private or public networks, enabling data transfer over long distances.

What does SD architecture mean?

SD (Software-Defined) architecture means network functions are controlled by software instead of relying only on hardware devices.

What is called network architecture?

Network architecture is the design of a computer network, including hardware, software, and communication methods to connect devices.