The new cloud-ready service has been designed to support next-generation networking and comes with optimisation tools that will enable large organisations to access cloud data, applications and software-as-a-service (SaaS)-based offerings such as Office 365 from multiple branch sites. As a software based solution, SD-WAN allows customers to rapidly scale and alter their networks in line with their needs.
SD-WAN builds on existing WAN and VPN technologies and can be used to connect enterprise networks – including multiple dispersed sites and data centres – with more open and flexible hardware than traditional WAN solutions. The network is instead controlled using cloud-native software.
The service will provide insight, analytics and visibility of network traffic so that key applications can be prioritised and traffic optimised to improve performance. The service is end-to-end IPsec encrypted and comes with a secure stateful firewall as standard, adding a layer of protection on top of customers’ existing security architecture and providing the opportunity to consolidate security requirements.
The launch significantly bolsters the capability of Virgin Media Business to develop bespoke solutions that many large, complex businesses require.
Peter Kelly, Managing Director of Virgin Media Business, said: “SD-WAN as a service transforms legacy infrastructure into an agile, responsive and secure digital platform with the cloud at its heart to help enterprises transform the way they work. By giving customers greater flexibility and control, SD-WAN helps businesses to evolve and tailor their networks quickly and easily.”