BT SD-WAN - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
BT SD-WAN - Product Overview
Introduction to BT SD-WAN
BT SD-WAN is a sophisticated networking solution aimed at enhancing the efficiency, security, and agility of wide area networks (WANs) for large enterprises. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
BT SD-WAN is designed to optimize network performance and management by leveraging software-defined networking (SDN) technologies. It allows enterprises to centralize the management of their WAN, ensuring better control over network traffic, improved security, and faster deployment of new sites.Target Audience
The primary target audience for BT SD-WAN includes large enterprises and global organizations that require high-performance, secure, and flexible network solutions. These businesses often have multiple sites and rely heavily on cloud-based applications and services.Key Features
BT Agile Connect
This solution, developed in partnership with Nokia’s Nuage Networks, uses Virtualised Network Services (VNS) to provide an intelligent end-to-end network fabric. It includes pre-built regional gateways, hub connectivity, and enhanced security measures. Policy-driven automation and micro-segmentation are key features, ensuring efficient network management and customized security policies.Multi-Platform Availability
BT SD-WAN solutions support various network configurations, including MPLS circuits, secondary leased lines, SOGEA & FTTP broadband Internet, and LTE/4G/5G. This flexibility allows for dynamic path selection and self-healing properties, ensuring sub-second fail-over and continuous network uptime.Integrated Security
BT SD-WAN integrates advanced security features, such as Zero Trust Network Access, Secure Web Gateway, and real-time threat intelligence. The solutions, particularly those in collaboration with Fortinet and Palo Alto, offer comprehensive security suites including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and advanced threat protection.Cloud and SaaS Integration
BT SD-WAN provides direct, secure, and optimized connectivity to major cloud service providers. This ensures high-performance connectivity for cloud-based applications, which is crucial for organizations relying on SaaS services.Centralized Management
The solutions offer centralized management through cloud-based portals, such as the BT portal and FortiManager. These platforms enable IT teams to optimize application performance, manage bandwidth, and gain real-time visibility into network traffic.Flexibility and Agility
BT SD-WAN facilitates rapid branch setup and flexible branch deployment, allowing businesses to quickly scale their network infrastructure. It also supports remote work and mobile connectivity with options like 4G and 5G, ensuring seamless connectivity regardless of location.Conclusion
BT SD-WAN is a powerful tool for large enterprises seeking to modernize their traditional WAN infrastructure. With its advanced features in security, centralized management, and cloud integration, it offers a highly resilient and high-performance network solution tailored to meet the diverse needs of global organizations. BT SD-WAN - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of BT SD-WAN is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, catering to the needs of network administrators and businesses alike.Centralised Management
The BT SD-WAN management portal provides a centralised and streamlined way to control the entire WAN. This portal offers a clear and intuitive user interface that allows administrators to prioritize applications, giving them real-time visibility of all applications, users, and devices across the network.Real-Time Visibility and Reporting
The portal includes features that enable real-time visibility into network performance, application usage, and user activity. This visibility is supported by detailed reporting insights, which help administrators make informed decisions about network and application performance. The analytics capabilities within the portal allow for the identification of network bottlenecks, enabling administrators to optimize network performance effectively.Ease of Use
The interface is designed with ease of use in mind. It allows administrators to manage all elements of the co-managed or fully managed WAN, including security, deployment, and any changes to the network. The zero-touch provisioning feature simplifies the deployment and configuration processes, reducing the resources and operational expenses required to set up new sites.Integration with Cloud Environments
The BT SD-WAN portal integrates seamlessly with cloud environments, supporting the rapid provisioning of cloud services. This makes it easy to set up access to public clouds such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, enhancing the overall user experience by streamlining cloud connectivity.Security Features
Security is a major aspect of the BT SD-WAN portal. It allows administrators to quickly identify potential risks and implement automated updates across all sites. This ensures that the business remains protected without compromising on network performance.User Experience
Overall, the user experience is enhanced by the portal’s ability to simplify network management. It provides a single platform to manage LAN, wireless LAN, SD-WAN, and security, as seen in solutions like BT SD-WAN Meraki. This consolidation reduces the administrative burden, allowing businesses to focus on their core objectives rather than managing complex network infrastructure.Conclusion
In summary, the BT SD-WAN user interface is designed to be intuitive, providing real-time visibility, ease of use, and comprehensive management capabilities, all of which contribute to a positive and efficient user experience. BT SD-WAN - Key Features and Functionality
Global IP Branch-office and Remote User Connectivity
BT SD-WAN with Meraki provides connectivity options such as SOGEA, FTTP Broadband, and EE’s 4G and 5G networks. This ensures remote users and branch offices can connect securely and efficiently. The Meraki AutoVPN feature, which includes IKE and IPsec protocols, automatically sets up and manages VPN tunnels between endpoints, securing data transmission with encryption algorithms like AES128/3DES and SHA1 hashing.SD WAN Network Architecture
The BT Meraki SD WAN solution integrates branch offices, remote users, and multi-cloud vendor solutions (like AWS and Azure) into a single platform. This architecture is based on the Gartner SASE framework, providing secure network VPN capabilities, threat and intrusion protection, Cloud Access Security Broker, Zero Trust, Secure Web Gateway, and Layer 3 & Layer 7 Firewall. This setup ensures visibility of application performance across the WAN and LAN/WiFi through the BT Meraki web interface.Meraki SASE Network Security
BT Managed SD WAN with Meraki includes layer-7 firewall protection using deep packet inspection. This allows administrators to create application performance policies based on specific applications or categories. Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) is integrated to prevent, detect, and remove threats by inspecting HTTP file downloads and blocking or allowing them based on threat intelligence. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) backed by Cisco Talos adds another layer of security.Centralised Management and Visibility
The BT SD WAN portal offers centralised and streamlined management of the entire WAN. Administrators can prioritize applications, view real-time performance of all applications, users, and devices, and make informed decisions based on application performance insights. The portal also integrates with cloud environments, supports rapid provisioning of cloud services, and includes analytics to identify network bottlenecks and optimize performance.Resilient Connectivity and Failover
BT SD WAN solutions provide resilient connectivity through diverse media transports such as Secondary Leased Lines, MPLS circuits, SOGEA & FTTP broadband Internet, and LTE/4G/5G. The self-healing properties of BT underlay offer dynamic path selection with sub-second failover, ensuring that if the primary uplink is down, traffic will failover to the secondary uplink.Traffic Optimisation
Meraki Traffic Shaping allows network administrators to allocate bandwidth across applications and services, prioritizing critical business applications while limiting bandwidth for less critical ones. This is configured easily via the BT Managed SD WAN Meraki portal.Hybrid WAN Options
BT SD WAN supports various Hybrid WAN options, including secure Internet Breakout for direct internet access from branch offices, integration with MPLS and VPLS networks, 4G and 5G connectivity options, and private circuits for short haul data requirements. These options optimize cloud application performance and minimize latency.Cloud Connectivity
BT SD WAN provides direct, secure, and optimized connections to various cloud service providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This eliminates the need to reroute traffic through a central point, enhancing the efficiency of cloud applications.AI and Automation
While the specific integration of AI is not extensively detailed in the sources, BT’s commitment to innovation includes the use of advanced automation platforms. For example, the Service and Network Automation Platform (SNAP) helps customers innovate using SD-WAN and NFV technologies. SNAP integrates best-in-breed technologies, including those from partners like Cisco, to provide end-to-end applications visibility, control, and configuration. This automation enhances network management efficiency and performance without explicitly mentioning AI, but it implies a high level of automated intelligence in managing network operations.Security Features
BT SD WAN solutions, especially with Fortinet, integrate advanced security features such as Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), Secure Socket Layer (SSL) decryption, Virtual Private Network (VPN), web content filtering, and anti-malware. These features ensure enhanced security for the network, protecting against potential threats. The FortiGate SD WAN solution detects and classifies over 5,000 applications, allowing for prioritization of business-critical applications.Conclusion
In summary, BT SD-WAN solutions offer a comprehensive set of features that enhance network performance, security, and management, making them highly beneficial for businesses looking to modernize their traditional WAN infrastructure. BT SD-WAN - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
BT SD-WAN is known for its high-performance capabilities, particularly in optimizing network operations for cloud-based applications. Here are some highlights:Network Optimization
BT SD-WAN uses intelligent end-to-end network fabric and dynamic path selection to ensure traffic travels over the best-performing pathways, minimizing latency and jitter. This is especially beneficial for cloud applications and real-time data transmission.Hybrid WAN Options
BT SD-WAN supports a variety of connectivity options, including MPLS, VPLS, broadband Internet, 4G/5G, and private circuits. This flexibility allows for optimized performance across different network conditions.Centralized Management
The BT SD-WAN portal provides real-time visibility and centralized management, enabling users to prioritize applications, monitor performance, and make informed decisions. This helps in optimizing network resources and ensuring high performance.Accuracy
The accuracy of BT SD-WAN is enhanced through several features:Application-Aware Routing
BT SD-WAN solutions, such as those from Nuage and Prisma, offer application-aware routing, which ensures that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and latency requirements. This is achieved through policy-driven automation and real-time monitoring.Real-Time Reporting
The BT SD-WAN portal includes reporting capabilities that provide in-depth insights into network and application performance. This helps in identifying and addressing any performance bottlenecks promptly.Security Features
Integrated security measures, such as those in the BT SD WAN Fortinet solution, include features like intrusion prevention, SSL decryption, and anti-malware, ensuring accurate and secure data transmission.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While BT SD-WAN offers significant advantages, there are some limitations and areas to consider:Initial Deployment Complexity
Setting up SD-WAN can be complex, especially when integrating it into existing network environments with legacy systems. Proper planning and expertise are essential to avoid disruptions during the transition.Bandwidth Constraints
Relying solely on lower-cost broadband connections can lead to bandwidth limitations and variable performance. Effective traffic management policies and careful bandwidth planning are necessary to avoid performance bottlenecks.Security Concerns
Although BT SD-WAN offers robust security features, some organizations may still be cautious about transmitting sensitive data over public internet connections. Ensuring robust encryption and authentication protocols is crucial.Quality of Service (QoS) Management
Managing QoS across multiple links and branch offices can be complex. Careful configuration and testing of QoS policies are necessary to ensure that critical applications receive the required bandwidth and latency.Dependence on Internet Connectivity
SD-WAN’s reliance on internet connectivity means that any disruptions or outages can impact network performance. Having redundancy options and failover mechanisms in place is essential to maintain network continuity. In summary, BT SD-WAN offers strong performance and accuracy through its advanced features and centralized management. However, it is important to address potential limitations such as initial deployment complexity, bandwidth constraints, and security concerns to ensure a smooth and efficient network operation. BT SD-WAN - Pricing and Plans
The pricing structure for BT SD-WAN solutions is varied and flexible, catering to different business needs and requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the various pricing models and features associated with BT SD-WAN:
Pricing Models
BT SD-WAN solutions are offered through several pricing models, each with its own set of features and benefits:Subscription-based
This model involves regular fees for licensing the SD-WAN solution, often including support services. It is ideal for businesses seeking consistent support and predictable expenses.Bandwidth-based
This model charges based on the amount of bandwidth used, making it cost-effective for businesses with lower bandwidth needs.Pay-as-you-go
This model charges based on actual SD-WAN usage, which is beneficial for businesses with fluctuating network demands, such as seasonal operations.Feature-based
Businesses can select and pay for specific features beyond the base SD-WAN solution, such as advanced security or WAN connection optimization.Tiered Pricing
BT offers different service levels at set price points, each tier including specific features or bandwidth limits. This model is suitable for organizations with diverse SD-WAN requirements across different locations.Per-site Pricing
This model charges based on the number of connected sites, simplifying budgeting and providing predictable expenses per site.Flat-rate Pricing
This model offers fixed fees for SD-WAN services regardless of usage, providing a consistent cost structure and avoiding variable expenses.BT SD-WAN Solutions and Features
BT SD-WAN solutions are offered through partnerships with several vendors, each with unique features:BT SD WAN Versa
- Includes Versa Network’s Secure Cloud IP Architecture with security, routing, analytics, multi-tenancy, and Advanced Threat Protection.
- Known for being one of the more cost-effective options due to the low cost of WAN edge devices.
BT SD WAN Meraki
- A cloud-managed solution integrating LAN, wireless LAN, SD-WAN, and security.
- Features include Auto VPN, direct Internet access, and collaboration between Cisco and BT.
BT SD WAN Nuage
- Developed with Nokia’s Nuage Networks, offering Virtualised Network Services, policy-driven automation, and integrated security.
BT SD WAN Cisco Viptela
- Designed for global networks, providing segmentation, Cloud OnRamp, Zero Trust Security, and integration of Cisco vEdge hardware and licenses.
BT SD WAN Prisma (Palo Alto)
- A cloud-native platform with encryption, security solutions, and a comprehensive SD-WAN – Secure Access Service Edge solution.
- Features include dynamic path selection, fail-to-wire functionality, and real-time reporting capabilities.
BT SD WAN Fortinet
- Integrates SD-WAN functionalities with advanced security features such as self-healing networks, Cloud on-ramp, and application detection.
- Includes Fortinet FortiGate Firewall and SD-WAN devices for enhanced security.
Hybrid WAN Options
BT SD-WAN also offers various Hybrid WAN options:- Secure Internet Breakout for direct internet access from branch offices.
- Integration with MPLS and VPLS networks.
- Support for 4G and 5G connectivity.
- Private circuits for short haul data requirements.
- Cloud Connectivity for direct, secure connections to cloud service providers.
SASE Cybersecurity Features
BT SD-WAN solutions include comprehensive SASE cybersecurity features such as:- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
- Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
- Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
- Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Real-time Analytics and Reporting.
No Free Options
There is no indication of free options available for BT SD-WAN solutions. The pricing is structured around various models that cater to different business needs, but all require a financial commitment. In summary, BT SD-WAN pricing is highly customizable and depends on the specific features, bandwidth requirements, and deployment models chosen by the business. Each vendor solution offers unique features and benefits, but there are no free options available. BT SD-WAN - Integration and Compatibility
BT’s SD-WAN Solutions Overview
BT’s SD-WAN solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of tools and platforms, ensuring compatibility and flexibility for diverse business needs.Integration with Network Technologies
BT SD-WAN solutions, such as the Agile Connect service, are built on Nuage Networks’ Virtualized Network Services (VNS), which share a common SDN controller and policy repository. This integration allows for end-to-end network management, combining BT’s global network infrastructure with the latest cloud technologies, including Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV).Hybrid WAN Options
BT SD-WAN supports various hybrid connectivity options, including MPLS, VPLS, private circuits, and wireless connectivity such as 4G and 5G. This allows businesses to architect their networks using a mix of reliable MPLS networks and cost-effective internet connections, optimizing traffic steering based on application requirements.Cloud Connectivity
The solutions offer direct, secure, and optimized connections to major cloud service providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This integration eliminates the need to reroute traffic through a central point, enhancing the efficiency of cloud applications and providing real-time visibility and management through the BT SD-WAN portal.Security Integration
BT SD-WAN solutions are integrated with advanced security features from various vendors. For example, the BT Fortinet SD-WAN solution combines SD-WAN capabilities with the FortiGate Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), offering a comprehensive suite of security features including intrusion prevention, SSL decryption, and anti-malware. Similarly, the BT Prisma SD-WAN solution integrates with Palo Alto’s security solutions to provide a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform.Centralized Management
The BT SD-WAN management portal provides a centralized and streamlined way to control the entire WAN. It integrates seamlessly with cloud environments, supports rapid provisioning of cloud services, and offers real-time visibility and analytics to optimize network performance and identify potential security risks.Multi-Platform Availability
BT SD-WAN solutions can be deployed across various network environments, from single-site networks to complex multi-site global networks. The solutions are managed centrally through platforms like FortiManager for Fortinet or the BT SD-WAN portal, ensuring consistent policy enforcement and security measures across different sites and devices.Vendor Partnerships
BT collaborates with multiple vendors, including Nuage Networks, Fortinet, and Palo Alto, to offer a range of SD-WAN solutions. This allows businesses to choose the solution that best fits their needs, leveraging the strengths of different technologies and ensuring compatibility with existing infrastructure.Conclusion
In summary, BT’s SD-WAN solutions are highly integrative and compatible across a wide range of network technologies, cloud platforms, and security tools, making them versatile and effective for various business scenarios. BT SD-WAN - Customer Support and Resources
BT SD-WAN Customer Support Overview
BT SD-WAN offers a comprehensive suite of customer support options and additional resources to ensure that users can manage and optimize their network infrastructure effectively.
Centralised Management Portal
BT provides a centralised SD-WAN management portal that offers real-time visibility and control over the entire WAN. This portal allows users to prioritize applications, monitor network performance, and manage security settings. It also integrates seamlessly with cloud environments, enabling quick setup and access to public clouds like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Reporting and Analytics
The BT SD-WAN portal includes built-in analytics capabilities that help users identify network bottlenecks and make informed decisions. Users can access detailed reports and dashboards to monitor traffic, health, and threshold alerts across their SD-WAN service. This feature is particularly useful for optimizing network performance and identifying potential security risks.
Professional Services
BT offers professional services for the design, implementation, and optimization of SD-WAN solutions. Their experienced consultants help in designing network architecture, including network segmentation, firewall policies, and quality of service. During implementation, a dedicated management team ensures a smooth rollout with minimal disruption. Ongoing optimization services involve regular monitoring, analysis, and proactive adjustments to maintain optimal network performance.
Managed Delivery and In-Life Management
BT manages the end-to-end delivery of the SD-WAN service, including design, delivery, installation, and commissioning. They also provide in-life management, which includes software upgrades and proactive management of the SD-WAN service. This ensures that the network remains secure and performing optimally over time.
Support and Maintenance
BT’s SD-WAN services are backed by a 24/7 support team based in UK operation centers. This team handles all aspects of the service, including device RMA, enterprise support, and software upgrades. The support is comprehensive and includes assistance with wireless settings, network settings, application routing/prioritization, and security parameters.
Training and Tools
BT has invested in training and tools to support their SD-WAN services, including expertise in areas like YANG, Netconf, and TOSCA. They have also established a Centre of Excellence (CoE) to support the full life cycle of customers’ SD-WAN services, ensuring that customers benefit from the latest technologies and best practices.
Hybrid WAN Options
BT SD-WAN supports various Hybrid WAN options, including MPLS, VPLS, private circuits, and 4G/5G connectivity. This flexibility allows businesses to choose the best connectivity options for their specific needs, ensuring resilient and diverse WAN configurations.
By providing these extensive support options and resources, BT ensures that their SD-WAN customers have the tools and assistance needed to maintain a secure, high-performance network infrastructure.
BT SD-WAN - Pros and Cons
Advantages of BT SD-WAN
BT SD-WAN offers several significant advantages for organizations looking to modernize their network infrastructure:
Enhanced Flexibility and Performance
BT SD-WAN provides connectivity options through various media transports, including MPLS circuits, SOGEA & FTTP broadband Internet, and LTE/4G/5G. This ensures excellent latency and jitter, particularly beneficial for cloud-based applications.
Centralized Management
The platform offers centralized management, dynamic path selection, and application-aware routing. This simplifies network administration and ensures optimal performance for critical applications.
Advanced Security Features
BT SD-WAN solutions, especially the BT SD-WAN Fortinet option, integrate advanced security features such as Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), SSL decryption, VPN, web content filtering, and anti-malware. These features provide a ‘protect and connect’ approach, enhancing overall network security.
Hybrid Network Integration
BT SD-WAN supports hybrid networks, allowing businesses to combine MPLS, VPLS, or private circuits with internet connections. This ensures efficient traffic steering based on application requirements.
Flexible Branch Deployment
The solution offers flexibility in deploying branch offices using various connection types, including direct internet access and cloud connectivity. This accelerates cloud application performance and minimizes latency.
Rapid Branch Setup and Scalability
The virtual network overlay enables rapid deployment and scalability, making it easier to set up and expand branch offices securely.
Cost Efficiency
By leveraging low-cost ISP connectivity and standardizing devices, BT SD-WAN can help organizations save on branch office CPE costs and overall networking spend.
Cloud and SaaS Integration
BT SD-WAN provides direct, secure, and optimized connections to cloud service providers, making it ideal for organizations reliant on cloud and SaaS applications.
Remote Work and Mobile Connectivity
The solution incorporates Zero Trust security principles and supports 4G and 5G connectivity, ensuring secure and reliable connections for remote users.
Disadvantages of BT SD-WAN
While BT SD-WAN offers numerous benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:
Initial Deployment Complexity
Implementing BT SD-WAN can be challenging, especially when integrating it into existing network environments with legacy systems. Proper planning and expertise are necessary to ensure a smooth deployment.
Potential Bandwidth Constraints
Relying on lower-cost broadband connections can lead to bandwidth limitations and variable performance. Effective traffic management policies and careful bandwidth planning are essential to avoid performance bottlenecks.
Security Concerns
Transmitting sensitive data over public internet connections can raise security concerns. Robust encryption and authentication protocols must be in place to safeguard data integrity.
Quality of Service (QoS) Management
Managing QoS across multiple links and branch offices can be complex. Careful configuration and testing are necessary to ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and latency requirements.
Dependence on Internet Connectivity
BT SD-WAN’s reliance on internet connectivity means that any disruptions or outages can impact network performance. Redundancy options and failover mechanisms are crucial to maintain network continuity.
Variable Vendor Capabilities
The capabilities of different vendors can vary, and not all may meet the original vision of software-defined networking. It is important to evaluate vendor offerings carefully to ensure they meet the organization’s specific needs.
By weighing these advantages and disadvantages, organizations can make informed decisions about whether BT SD-WAN is the right solution for their networking needs.
BT SD-WAN - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing BT SD-WAN
When comparing BT SD-WAN with other products in the networking tools and SD-WAN category, several key features and differences stand out.
Unique Features of BT SD-WAN
Multi-Vendor Support
Multi-Vendor Support: BT SD-WAN stands out by offering solutions from six different vendors: Versa, Meraki, Nuage, Viptela, Prisma by Palo Alto, and Fortinet. This variety allows businesses to choose the solution that best fits their specific needs and use cases.
Hybrid WAN Options
Hybrid WAN Options: BT SD-WAN supports a range of hybrid connectivity options, including MPLS, VPLS, private circuits, secure Internet Breakout, and 4G/5G connectivity. This flexibility is particularly useful for businesses with diverse network requirements.
SASE Cybersecurity Integration
SASE Cybersecurity Integration: BT SD-WAN includes a comprehensive set of SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) features, such as NGFW, ZTNA, SWG, CASB, MDR, DLP, IAM, and real-time threat intelligence. This integration provides enhanced security for cloud-based applications and remote users.
Cloud Connectivity
Cloud Connectivity: BT SD-WAN offers direct, secure, and optimized connections to major cloud service providers like Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud. This ensures efficient cloud application performance without the need to reroute traffic through a central hub.
Automation and Management
Automation and Management: BT’s Service and Network Automation Platform (SNAP) helps customers manage and automate their hybrid networking infrastructure, providing improved visibility and control over their networks.
Comparison with Other Vendors
Cisco SD-WAN
Cisco SD-WAN: Cisco SD-WAN is known for its purpose-built SD-WAN architecture and advanced routing protocols, which are similar to some of the features offered by BT’s vendors like Versa and Meraki. However, Cisco’s solution excels in areas like multi-region fabric, custom silicon, and IPv6 support for ZBFW, which may not be available in all BT SD-WAN vendor options.
Cisco also offers strong integration with its Identity Services Engine (ISE) and multiple Identity and Detection Protection (IDPs) systems, which might be more limited in some BT SD-WAN vendor solutions.
Fortinet SD-WAN
Fortinet SD-WAN: Fortinet’s SD-WAN solution, as part of BT’s offerings, combines SD-WAN functionalities with advanced security features in a single device. This ‘protect and connect’ approach is similar to what Cisco offers but is integrated within the BT network infrastructure. Fortinet’s solution includes features like SSL inspection, IPS, and web content filtering, which are also available in other BT SD-WAN vendor solutions.
Meraki SD-WAN
Meraki SD-WAN: Meraki, another BT SD-WAN vendor, offers a cloud-native architecture with features like AutoVPN, traffic shaping, and layer-7 firewall protection. Meraki’s integration with Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) backed by Cisco Talos adds significant security value. This is similar to the security features offered by other BT SD-WAN vendors but is particularly optimized for cloud and remote user connectivity.
Potential Alternatives
Pure-Play SD-WAN Vendors
Pure-Play SD-WAN Vendors: If a business prefers a single-vendor solution without the complexity of multiple vendors, they might consider pure-play SD-WAN vendors like Cisco, Fortinet, or Versa directly. These solutions can offer more streamlined management and support but may lack the flexibility and variety provided by BT’s multi-vendor approach.
Managed SD-WAN Services
Managed SD-WAN Services: Other service providers, such as those offering managed SD-WAN services from vendors like VMware or Silver Peak, might provide similar benefits in terms of managed services and cloud connectivity. However, these may not offer the same level of hybrid WAN options and SASE integration as BT SD-WAN.
Conclusion
In summary, BT SD-WAN’s unique selling points include its multi-vendor support, extensive hybrid WAN options, and comprehensive SASE cybersecurity features. While other vendors like Cisco and Fortinet offer strong SD-WAN solutions, BT’s approach provides a flexible and secure network infrastructure that can be tailored to various business needs.
BT SD-WAN - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about BT SD-WAN
What are the key benefits of BT SD-WAN solutions?
BT SD-WAN solutions offer several key benefits, including enhanced flexibility, centralized management, and improved security measures. These solutions help address modern networking challenges and support digital transformation. They provide diverse and resilient WAN configurations, excellent latency and jitter for cloud-based applications, and integration with various cloud service providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.Which vendors are part of the BT SD-WAN portfolio?
The BT SD-WAN portfolio includes six vendor solutions: Versa, Meraki, Nuage, Viptela, Prisma by Palo Alto, and Fortinet. Each vendor offers unique features and capabilities to meet different business use cases across SME and large enterprise markets.What Hybrid WAN options are available with BT SD-WAN?
BT SD-WAN supports several Hybrid WAN options, including secure Internet Breakout for direct internet access from branch offices, integration with MPLS and VPLS networks, 4G and 5G connectivity options, and private circuits for short haul data requirements. These options help optimize cloud application performance and minimize latency.How does BT SD-WAN ensure security?
BT SD-WAN solutions integrate comprehensive security features, including Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) capabilities such as Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Secure Web Gateways (SWG), Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB), Managed Detection and Response (MDR), Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Identity and Access Management (IAM), and real-time threat intelligence. These features protect networks, users, and sites from emerging security threats.What management and visibility tools are provided by BT SD-WAN?
The BT SD-WAN management portal offers centralized and streamlined control over the entire WAN. It provides real-time visibility of applications, users, and devices, as well as analytics capabilities to identify network bottlenecks and optimize network performance. The portal also integrates with cloud environments for rapid provisioning of cloud services and includes automated security updates.How does BT SD-WAN support cloud connectivity?
BT SD-WAN offers direct, secure, and optimized connections to various cloud service providers such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This eliminates the need to reroute traffic through a central point, enhancing the efficiency of cloud applications. The solutions also support cloud-native architectures and dynamic routing capabilities with Quality of Service features.What are the key features of BT Meraki Managed SD-WAN?
BT Meraki Managed SD-WAN includes features such as Auto VPN for secure tunnel establishment, traffic shaping to prioritize critical applications, layer-7 firewall protection, and integration with Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) and Data Loss Prevention (DLP). It also supports global IP branch-office and remote user connectivity, resilient underlay connectivity, and cost savings through efficient use of BT underlay services.How does BT SD-WAN handle network failures and redundancy?
BT SD-WAN solutions include self-healing network capabilities with dynamic path selection and sub-second fail-over. The ‘Fail to Wire’ functionality in some solutions, like Prisma SD-WAN, ensures increased redundancy. Additionally, the use of dual Ethernet, broadband, and EE SIMs provides diverse and resilient connectivity options.What professional services does BT offer for SD-WAN implementation and optimization?
BT provides professional services for SD-WAN design, implementation, and optimization. This includes bespoke design services, a dedicated management team for implementation, and ongoing support and optimization to maintain application performance and adjust the SD-WAN infrastructure as needed.Can BT SD-WAN be customized to meet specific business needs?
Yes, BT SD-WAN solutions can be customized to meet specific business needs. BT collaborates with businesses to design solutions that capture all network requirements, from network segmentation to firewall policies and Quality of Service. The solutions are flexible and can be co-managed or fully managed to fit different business needs.What kind of support does BT offer for its SD-WAN services?
BT offers 24/7 support from UK-based operation centers for its fully managed SD-WAN services. The support includes a service desk for submitting service requests, reporting incidents, and asking questions about the service. BT also provides continuous monitoring, analysis, and proactive adjustments to the SD-WAN configuration to ensure optimal performance. BT SD-WAN - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of BT SD-WAN
BT SD-WAN is a comprehensive and versatile networking solution that offers a range of benefits, making it an attractive option for various types of organizations.Key Benefits
Enhanced Flexibility and Management
BT SD-WAN provides centralized management through its portal, allowing users to prioritize applications, monitor network performance, and manage security efficiently. This centralization simplifies network management and enhances visibility across the entire WAN.Improved Performance
The solution offers superior application steering, intelligent routing, and dynamic path selection, which result in accelerated performance, reduced latency, and an enhanced user experience. This is particularly beneficial for cloud-based applications and critical traffic.Cost Savings
By optimizing bandwidth and network asset utilization, BT SD-WAN helps reduce hardware costs and derive a better long-term ROI. The ability to integrate different types of connectivity, such as MPLS, VPLS, and Internet, further optimizes costs.Enhanced Security
BT SD-WAN integrates advanced security features, including NGFW, ZTNA, SWG, CASB, MDR, DLP, IAM, and real-time threat intelligence. This comprehensive security suite protects networks, sites, and users from emerging threats, ensuring a secure access service edge (SASE).Hybrid WAN Options
The solution supports various hybrid WAN configurations, including MPLS, VPLS, private circuits, and wireless connectivity options like 4G and 5G. This flexibility allows businesses to architect networks based on their specific needs.Who Would Benefit Most
Large Enterprises
Organizations with global footprints and multiple branch offices can significantly benefit from BT SD-WAN. The solution’s ability to integrate with various cloud service providers, offer secure and optimized cloud connectivity, and provide rapid deployment and scalability makes it ideal for large enterprises undergoing digital transformation.SMEs
Small to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) can also benefit from BT SD-WAN due to its flexible and cost-effective nature. The solution offers simplified management, improved performance, and enhanced security, which are crucial for SMEs looking to modernize their network infrastructure without heavy upfront investments.Organizations with Remote Workforces
With the increasing need for remote work and mobile connectivity, BT SD-WAN’s support for Zero Trust security principles, 4G and 5G connectivity, and secure Internet breakout makes it an excellent choice for organizations with distributed workforces.Overall Recommendation
BT SD-WAN is a highly recommended solution for organizations seeking to modernize their traditional WAN infrastructure. Its combination of enhanced flexibility, improved performance, cost savings, and advanced security features makes it a compelling choice. The ability to integrate with various cloud services, support hybrid WAN configurations, and offer centralized management through a user-friendly portal further enhances its value.For businesses looking to streamline their network management, ensure high-performance connectivity, and protect against security threats, BT SD-WAN is an excellent option. Its flexibility and scalability make it suitable for both large enterprises and SMEs, and its support for remote work and cloud integration aligns well with modern business needs.