Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Product Overview
Introduction to Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN
Lumen SD-WAN, formerly known as CenturyLink SD-WAN, is a sophisticated networking solution that leverages software-defined networking (SDN) principles to manage and optimize wide area networks (WANs). Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Lumen SD-WAN is designed to connect and extend enterprise networks over large geographical distances, ensuring secure, high-performance, and reliable connectivity. It abstracts the underlying physical WAN links, such as broadband, MPLS, and LTE, into a virtual overlay network. This allows for centralized control and dynamic path selection based on real-time network conditions and predefined policies.Target Audience
Lumen SD-WAN is ideal for large, multi-national enterprises across various industry verticals, including Retail, Financial Services, Healthcare, Educational Institutions, Media & Entertainment Providers, and Government Entities. These organizations often require global network solutions that can handle high-speed, cost-effective network services for numerous locations.Key Features
Centralized Management
Lumen SD-WAN offers a centralized control plane that simplifies network management. It allows administrators to write and deploy rules and policies across the entire network from a single dashboard, reducing the need for manual configuration and troubleshooting.Flexible WAN Connectivity
The solution supports multiple types of connections, including MPLS, broadband internet, LTE, and 4G, allowing companies to choose the best transport method for each location. This flexibility helps in reducing costs, latency, and improving reliability.Hybrid Approach
Lumen SD-WAN can be integrated into hybrid networks that combine private MPLS connections with SD-WAN, offering the benefits of both systems. This approach enhances protection, increases operational efficiency, and leverages the strengths of both technologies.Enhanced Security
The solution includes advanced security features such as encryption, segmentation, and integration with cloud-based security services like firewalls, antivirus, and threat detection. This helps protect data in transit and isolate network traffic according to application, user, or location.Operational Simplicity
Lumen SD-WAN simplifies network operations through automated deployment and configuration processes, such as zero-touch provisioning. This reduces the complexity, resources, and operational costs required to set up new sites.Managed Services
Lumen offers SD-WAN as a managed service, providing customers with options for fully managed, co-managed, or self-managed solutions. This includes access to an intuitive management portal, customer-premise devices, and full customer support.Scalability and Performance
The solution is scalable and flexible, allowing it to support high-bandwidth connections (up to 10 Gbps) and multiple virtual routers for unlimited forwarding paths and complete traffic segmentation. It also optimizes connectivity to cloud-based resources without the need for backhauling traffic to centralized locations. By combining these features, Lumen SD-WAN provides a comprehensive and holistic platform for enterprises to modernize their networks, enhance performance, and ensure secure and reliable connectivity. Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Lumen SD-WAN
The user interface of Lumen (formerly CenturyLink) SD-WAN is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, catering to the needs of various enterprise users.
Centralized Management
Lumen SD-WAN offers a centralized control dashboard that allows users to monitor and manage their network from a single pane of glass. This centralized management simplifies the process of configuring, deploying, and managing network policies and settings.
Ease of Use
The interface is intuitive, enabling users to easily configure and manage their network without extensive technical expertise. For instance, users can create application-based routing policies, set up failover mechanisms, and monitor network performance in real-time through historical or real-time analytics and reporting.
Configuration Templates
To streamline the deployment process, especially for enterprises with multiple branch locations, Lumen SD-WAN provides configuration templates. These templates allow users to quickly set up and update multiple sites with just a few clicks, making site turn-ups faster and more efficient.
Real-Time Analytics and Visibility
The user interface includes detailed analytics that provide visibility into network performance, including latency, packet loss, jitter, and other key metrics. This real-time visibility helps users monitor network health and make informed decisions to optimize performance.
Security Features
The interface also integrates advanced security features, such as content filtering, intrusion detection and prevention, stateful firewalls, and geo-IP based firewall rules. These features can be managed and monitored through the central control dashboard, ensuring that security is both effective and easy to manage.
Support and Management Options
Lumen offers various management options, including fully managed, co-managed, and DIY services. This flexibility allows users to choose the level of support that best fits their needs, with constant access to Lumen’s support team for design, configuration, deployment, and ongoing management.
Overall, the user interface of Lumen SD-WAN is designed to be straightforward, providing clear and comprehensive tools for managing and optimizing network performance, security, and application delivery. This makes it easier for users to manage their networks efficiently and effectively.
Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Key Features and Functionality
Lumen’s SD-WAN Solution Overview
Lumen’s SD-WAN solution, formerly offered by CenturyLink, is a comprehensive networking tool that integrates several key features and functionalities to enhance network management, security, and performance. Here are the main features and how they work:Centralized Management and Automation
Lumen SD-WAN uses a single, automated platform that can be monitored and managed from a central control dashboard. This centralization allows for easier management of network policies and configurations, automating the routing policies and configurations of edge devices through a cloud-based orchestration.Multi-Transport Support
The solution supports various transport options including Ethernet, MPLS, Broadband, 4G/LTE, and dedicated Internet. This flexibility allows businesses to choose the best transport method for their specific needs, ensuring optimal network performance and cost efficiency.Advanced Analytics and Monitoring
Lumen SD-WAN provides real-time and historical analytics and reporting, enabling customers to monitor network performance metrics such as latency, MOS (Mean Opinion Score), packet loss, and jitter. This visibility helps in optimizing network performance and troubleshooting issues promptly.Integrated Security Features
The Lumen SD-WAN solution, particularly the Lumen-Meraki and Lumen-Versa Networks offerings, includes integrated security features. These include dynamic path selection, intelligent routing, content filtering, intrusion detection and prevention, stateful firewalls, Geo-IP based firewall rules, and site-to-site auto VPN. Additionally, the partnership with Versa Networks delivers AI-powered Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) capabilities, including Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Security Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) services.Hybrid Network Integration
Lumen SD-WAN can be integrated into a hybrid network that includes both SD-WAN and MPLS connections. This approach leverages the strengths of both systems, offering more protection and increased operational efficiency. It allows businesses to maintain their existing MPLS infrastructure while benefiting from the flexibility and cost savings of SD-WAN.AI-Powered Enhancements
The integration with Versa Networks brings AI-powered in-line security for Zero Trust at the network edge. This AI-driven SASE solution provides real-time threat detection and remediation, enhancing the overall security posture of the network. The AI capabilities help in improving business cybersecurity by leveraging machine learning to detect and respond to threats more effectively.Deployment Flexibility
Lumen SD-WAN can be deployed in various ways, including over the top of existing networks, bundled solutions, or as a standalone offering. The solution can also be deployed on dedicated SASE gateways in Lumen’s global points of presence (PoPs) or on customer premises, depending on customer preference.Managed Services
Lumen offers managed and co-managed SD-WAN services, providing customers with the option to have their SD-WAN environment fully managed by Lumen or to share management responsibilities. This includes professional services such as network design, migration, optimization, and testing, along with 24/7 support from a dedicated team of network engineers and consultants. These features collectively ensure that Lumen’s SD-WAN solution provides a highly manageable, secure, and performant network environment, optimized for the needs of modern enterprises. Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Performance and Accuracy
Performance Metrics
Lumen’s SD-WAN solution is measured against several Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that highlight its performance:Latency
For the IQ Networking portion of the Hybrid SD-WAN Silver or Gold Packages, the average network transit delay is a key metric. In North America, the SLA is 42 ms, with credits applied if latency exceeds this threshold (e.g., 10% credit for 43-60 ms, 25% for 61-80 ms, and 50% for greater than 80 ms).Packet Delivery
The packet delivery rate is another critical metric, with an SLA of 99.90% in the Intra U.S. region. Credits are applied if the delivery rate falls below this threshold (e.g., 10% credit for 99.01%-99.89%, 25% for 90%-99%, and 50% for less than 90%).Jitter
Jitter, measured as the interpacket delay variance, has an SLA of 2 ms in the Intra U.S. region. Credits are applied if jitter exceeds this threshold (e.g., 10% credit for 2.1-3 ms, 25% for 3.1-4 ms, and 50% for greater than 4 ms).Network Reliability and Downtime
Lumen’s SD-WAN service includes provisions for network downtime. For instance, each cumulative hour of network downtime qualifies the customer for a credit of two days’ charges pro-rated from the Monthly Recurring Charge (MRC) if both transport paths are unable to transmit and receive data.Hardware Replacement
The service also includes a Hardware Replacement SLA, where Lumen will drop-ship replacement hardware to the affected service site within the next business day if the issue is isolated to the SD-WAN CPE.Management and Monitoring
Lumen’s SD-WAN offers software-based centralized control, enabling full-featured private networks over any available connectivity. This includes a comprehensive management and analytics portal, allowing customers to manage their own policies or have Lumen manage them.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Underlying Network Quality
SD-WAN cannot compensate for poor underlying network quality. It is an overlay that manages routing rules and prioritizes traffic but relies on the quality of the underlying network (whether MPLS, broadband, or Internet).Operational Overhead
Deployments that combine various types of Internet from different service providers can lead to higher operational overhead due to multiple support numbers, portals, and invoices.Integration Challenges
As networks scale, integrating new technologies and tools while managing different SLAs and performance fluctuations across various locations can be challenging.Support and Reporting
Lumen’s SD-WAN service includes a reporting SLO (Service Level Objective) where network downtime is reported to the customer within 10 minutes. Additionally, the Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) SLO ensures timely resolution of issues. In summary, Lumen’s SD-WAN solution is built on strong performance metrics and reliable service agreements, but its effectiveness is heavily dependent on the quality of the underlying network. Managing multiple service providers and integrating new technologies can add operational complexity, which is an area that requires careful consideration. Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure Overview
The pricing structure for Lumen’s SD-WAN solutions is structured around various tiers and options, each with distinct features and costs. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Monthly Recurring Charges (MRC)
- Lumen’s SD-WAN services have different MRC rates based on the bandwidth and security features. For example:
- Premium including Stateful Firewall: £178 for 500M and £218 for 1.5G.
- Premium including Next Generation Firewall & Advanced Security Package (Intrusion Prevention, URL Filtering, Anti-Virus): £218 for 20M, £258 for 500M, and £381 for 1.5G.
Additional Costs
- On-site Installation: This option costs £1,150 per site as a Non-Recurring Charge (NRC).
- On-site Maintenance: This service is available for £92 per site.
- High Availability Deployment: For creating a high-availability resilient network design, additional costs apply, but specific figures are not provided in the sources.
Service Tiers and Features
- Managed and Co-Managed Services: Lumen offers both managed and co-managed SD-WAN services. These services include design, configuration, deployment, and management of the network, freeing up valuable IT resources.
- SD-WAN with Different Partners:
- Versa Networks: Supports up to 10 Gbps, multiple virtual routers, and complete traffic segmentation.
- VMware (VeloCloud): Includes Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO) for real-time performance optimization, application-aware per-packet link steering, and supports LTE, MPLS, and broadband internet circuits. It also offers zero-touch deployment and over 100 PoPs worldwide.
- Cisco Viptela and Cisco Meraki: These options also support various features like intelligent routing, enterprise firewall, and data analytics, though with some variations in capabilities such as bandwidth limits (up to 10 Gbps for Viptela and up to 2 Gbps for Meraki).
Connectivity and Deployment
- Lumen’s SD-WAN solutions support a variety of connectivity types including MPLS, dedicated internet, broadband, and wireless access. The service can be deployed on Lumen-provided customer premise equipment (CPE), Lumen Edge Gateway Service, or a customer-provided cloud environment.
No Free Options
There are no free options available for Lumen’s SD-WAN services. All plans and features come with associated costs, although discounted pricing may be available for high-value deals.
Summary
In summary, Lumen’s SD-WAN pricing is based on the specific features, bandwidth requirements, and deployment options chosen by the customer. The costs include monthly recurring charges, non-recurring charges for installation and maintenance, and varying prices for different security and performance features.
Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Integration and Compatibility
Lumen’s SD-WAN Solution Overview
Lumen’s SD-WAN solution is notable for its extensive integration and compatibility across various platforms and devices, making it a versatile option for enterprises with diverse network needs.Multi-Vendor Partnerships
Lumen SD-WAN is delivered through partnerships with several leading vendors, including Versa Networks, VMware (VeloCloud), Cisco Meraki, and Cisco Viptela. This multi-vendor approach allows businesses to choose the solution that best fits their specific needs. For example:Lumen-VMware (VeloCloud) Solution
- Offers Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO) for real-time performance optimization, application-aware per-packet link steering, and support for LTE, MPLS, and broadband internet circuits.
Lumen-Cisco Meraki Solution
- Provides a centralized, cloud-based management service with features like latency, MOS, packet loss, and jitter monitoring. It also supports DIA, MPLS, and LTE connectivity, along with integrated security features such as content filtering and intrusion detection.
Network Compatibility
Lumen SD-WAN is compatible with a wide range of network types, including Ethernet, MPLS, Broadband, 4G/LTE, and dedicated Internet. This ‘bring-your-own-transport’ service allows businesses to use their existing network infrastructure, making integration smoother and more cost-effective.Centralized Management
The solution offers a single, automated platform that can be monitored and managed from a central control dashboard. This centralized management allows for simplified configuration, real-time analytics, and the ability to create application-based routing policies. For instance, businesses can set rules to automatically fail over applications experiencing high latency or direct non-critical traffic over the internet while keeping mission-critical apps on more secure links.Cloud and Application Integration
Lumen SD-WAN integrates seamlessly with cloud services, providing direct SaaS application access via cloud breakout without the need for data center backhauling. The VMware VeloCloud solution, for example, offers over 100 PoPs worldwide, thousands of Edges, and over 2,000 cloud gateways, ensuring easy access to any cloud.Security and Performance Optimization
The solution includes various security features such as dynamic path selection, intelligent routing, content filtering, intrusion detection, and stateful firewalls. Performance optimization is also a key aspect, with features like DMPO from VMware and real-time analytics from Cisco Meraki, which help in managing and optimizing network performance for business-critical applications.Deployment Flexibility
Lumen SD-WAN can be deployed in various ways, including over existing networks, bundled solutions, or as a standalone offering. The zero-touch deployment feature of the VMware solution and the ability to create templates for faster site turn-ups make the deployment process efficient and scalable.Conclusion
In summary, Lumen’s SD-WAN solution is highly integrative and compatible with a variety of networks, devices, and cloud services, making it a flexible and powerful tool for managing and optimizing enterprise networks. Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Lumen offers a variety of support channels to address different needs:
Technical Support
Customers can report service issues or get technical support through dedicated phone lines. For services contracted in North America, the support number is 877-453-8353, with specific options to reach the SD-WAN support team.
Managed Services
Lumen provides managed, co-managed, and DIY service options. The managed services include constant support for WAN, event management, design, configuration, deployment, and activation change management. Clients also have access to a Customer Self-Service Portal for co-managed options.
Global Support
For services contracted in the EMEA region, customers can contact support at 44 800 5283.
Additional Resources
Centralized Management
Lumen’s SD-WAN solutions offer centralized cloud management and monitoring through various vendor partnerships, including Versa Networks, VMware, VeloCloud, Cisco Meraki, and Cisco Viptela. This allows for efficient resource use and monitoring of business-critical applications.
Automation and Orchestration
Lumen uses Itential’s platform to automate and orchestrate SD-WAN branch deployment and onboarding processes. This automation reduces the time to configure services to just 10 minutes and enhances the overall efficiency of service delivery.
Performance Optimization
The solutions include features like Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO) from VMware, which provides real-time performance optimization for business-critical applications. Similar optimizations are available through other vendor offerings, ensuring optimized bandwidth and application performance.
Security Services
Lumen’s SD-WAN solutions integrate with their managed security services, offering capabilities such as Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), and more. These services are available through flexible service models, including DIY, co-managed, or fully managed options.
Documentation and Guides
While specific documentation links may be restricted due to browser settings, Lumen typically provides detailed guides and readiness materials for their SD-WAN services. These resources help customers prepare and understand the deployment and management of their SD-WAN solutions.
By leveraging these support options and resources, Lumen ensures that customers have the necessary tools and assistance to effectively manage and optimize their SD-WAN environments.
Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Lumen SD-WAN
Lumen SD-WAN offers several significant advantages that make it a compelling choice for businesses:Cost Savings
Lumen SD-WAN helps reduce the costs associated with traditional WAN architectures by allowing businesses to use cheaper broadband and LTE internet options instead of expensive MPLS circuits. This can significantly lower networking spend and improve the return on investment (ROI).Improved Network Performance
Lumen SD-WAN enhances network performance by bonding multiple WAN links and routing traffic through the most optimal path. This approach ensures better quality of service (QoS) for latency-sensitive applications and improves overall network efficiency.Enhanced Security
Lumen SD-WAN provides robust security features, including end-to-end encrypted tunnels, next-generation firewalls, and integrated security tools such as intrusion prevention, deep packet inspection, and anti-virus protection. This ensures that sensitive data is secure even when traversing the public internet.Flexibility and Scalability
The solution is connectivity agnostic, supporting various types of connections including Internet, MPLS, and LTE. This flexibility allows businesses to leverage different connectivity options based on their needs and ensures continuous network availability even in the event of link failures.Centralized Management
Lumen SD-WAN offers centralized management, allowing businesses to administer their network through a single pane of glass. This simplifies network management, provides a holistic view of network statistics, and streamlines security and compliance processes.Integration with Other Services
Lumen SD-WAN seamlessly integrates with other services such as edge computing, cloud services, security solutions, and unified communications. This holistic approach enhances the overall digital transformation of the business.Disadvantages of Lumen SD-WAN
While Lumen SD-WAN offers many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:Higher Equipment Costs
On-premise equipment for SD-WAN can represent a high initial cost, although this can be offset by long-term savings on connectivity costs.Quality of Service (QoS) Issues
SD-WAN services provisioned over the public internet may lack end-to-end QoS guarantees, which can affect traffic flow consistency. However, Lumen’s hybrid approach combining SD-WAN with MPLS can mitigate this issue.Increased IT Workload
SD-WAN solutions often require more configuration and maintenance from the IT team compared to traditional MPLS networks. This can add to the administrative workload unless managed through a value-added services partner.Variable Vendor Capabilities
The capabilities of SD-WAN vendors can vary, and not all may meet the full potential of software-defined networking. Lumen’s partnerships with reputable vendors like Versa Networks, VMware, and Cisco help ensure a high standard of service.Potential for Higher Pricing
Some clients have noted that Lumen’s pricing can be high, although the quality of service and comprehensive feature set often justify the cost. By weighing these pros and cons, businesses can make an informed decision about whether Lumen SD-WAN aligns with their networking needs and goals. Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing Lumen (formerly CenturyLink) SD-WAN with other products in the same category, several key features and alternatives stand out.
Unique Features of Lumen SD-WAN
Flexibility and Scalability
Managed Services
Compatibility and Connectivity
Analytical Tools and Security
Alternatives and Competitors
FortiGate SD-WAN
VeloCloud
Cato SASE Cloud
Versa SASE
Cisco Meraki and Cisco SD-WAN powered by Viptela
Other Notable Alternatives
SolarWinds Observability
Check Point Next Generation Firewalls (NGFWs)
Each of these alternatives offers unique features that can cater to different business needs, making it important to evaluate them based on specific requirements such as scalability, security, and ease of management.
Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Lumen (formerly CenturyLink) SD-WAN, along with detailed responses:
What is SD-WAN and how does it work?
SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Networking) is a technology that creates a virtual overlay network, abstracting the underlying physical WAN links such as broadband, MPLS, or LTE. It uses a central dashboard for automated management, allowing dynamic path selection based on predefined policies and real-time network conditions. This ensures that each type of traffic is routed through the best available path, enhancing network performance and reliability.
What are the key benefits of using Lumen SD-WAN?
The key benefits include simplified management through a centralized and automated architecture, enhanced performance with dynamic path selection, and expanded security features such as encryption, segmentation, and integration with cloud-based security services like firewalls, antivirus, and threat detection.
Can Lumen SD-WAN integrate with other network services like MPLS?
Yes, Lumen SD-WAN can integrate with MPLS and other network services. In fact, Lumen offers a holistic approach by overlaying SD-WAN onto an underlying hybrid network that includes private MPLS connections, providing more protection and operational efficiency by leveraging the strengths of both systems.
What security features does Lumen SD-WAN offer?
Lumen SD-WAN offers several advanced security features, including encryption and segmentation to protect data in transit and isolate network traffic according to the application, user, or location. It also integrates with cloud-based security services such as firewalls, antivirus, threat detection, intrusion prevention, URL filtering, and stateful firewalls.
What types of connectivity options are available with Lumen SD-WAN?
Lumen SD-WAN supports a broad range of connectivity options, including MPLS/IP VPN, broadband aggregation, dedicated internet, 4G/LTE, and the ability to bring your own transport. This flexibility allows for high-availability configurations and supports various site needs.
How does Lumen SD-WAN manage and monitor network performance?
Lumen SD-WAN provides real-time analytics and visibility into network performance through its cloud-based management service. Features include monitoring latency, MOS (Mean Opinion Score), packet loss, and jitter, both historically and in real-time. This allows customers to have clear visibility and control over their network performance.
What kind of support and management options are available for Lumen SD-WAN?
Lumen offers various management options, including fully managed, co-managed, and self-service models. The service includes design, deployment, service configuration, site activation, change management, appliance/circuit monitoring, event management, appliance upgrades, and 24/7 support for the entire WAN solution.
Can Lumen SD-WAN be used in different industry verticals?
Yes, Lumen SD-WAN is suitable for various industry verticals such as retail, financial services, healthcare, educational institutions, media and entertainment providers, and government entities. Its flexible and scalable design makes it adaptable to different business needs.
How does Lumen SD-WAN optimize bandwidth and performance for business-critical applications?
Lumen SD-WAN optimizes bandwidth and performance through features like Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO) from VMware, which provides real-time performance optimization for business-critical applications. It also supports application-aware per-packet link steering and on-demand remediation, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.
What is the global reach and infrastructure of Lumen SD-WAN?
Lumen SD-WAN leverages a global network with over 100 PoPs (Points of Presence) worldwide, thousands of edges, and over 2,000 cloud gateways. This extensive infrastructure supports global coverage and provides direct SaaS application access via cloud breakout without data center backhauling.
Are there any additional services or features that Lumen offers with its SD-WAN solution?
Yes, Lumen integrates its SD-WAN solution with other services such as edge computing, cloud services, security services, and voice services. This includes unified communications, cloud hosting, and managed services, providing a comprehensive platform for digital transformation.
Lumen (CenturyLink) SD-WAN - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Lumen SD-WAN
Lumen SD-WAN, formerly offered by CenturyLink, is a comprehensive and highly capable networking solution that caters to a wide range of organizational needs. Here’s a detailed assessment of its features, benefits, and the types of users who would benefit most from it.Key Features and Benefits
- Unified Network and Security Operations: Lumen SD-WAN integrates network and security management, providing a centralized and streamlined approach to managing your WAN. This includes built-in security features such as encryption, firewall integration, and DDoS protection.
- Performance and Optimization: The solution offers application acceleration, bandwidth management, dynamic path selection, WAN optimization, and traffic shaping, ensuring optimal network performance. It also includes quality of service (QoS) and real-time analytics to monitor and improve network efficiency.
- Scalability and Flexibility: With speeds up to 400 Gbps and support for multi-cloud environments, Lumen SD-WAN is highly scalable. It can leverage various transport services like broadband, LTE, and 5G to increase bandwidth and reduce latency.
- Simplified Management: The centralized management dashboard automates routing policies and configurations, reducing the need for manual intervention. This simplifies network management, especially for multisite deployments.
- Enhanced Security: Lumen SD-WAN incorporates advanced security features, including next-generation firewalls, secure web gateways, remote access/zero trust network access, and data loss prevention. This ensures comprehensive protection for your network and data.
- Hybrid Connectivity: Lumen offers a hybrid approach that seamlessly integrates SD-WAN with MPLS connections, providing the benefits of both systems and increasing operational efficiency.
Who Would Benefit Most
Lumen SD-WAN is particularly beneficial for:- Large Enterprises: Organizations with multiple sites and diverse network requirements can leverage the scalability, centralized management, and integrated security features of Lumen SD-WAN.
- Midmarket and SMBs: Smaller to medium-sized businesses can also benefit from the simplified management, cost-effective solutions, and the ability to scale up or down as needed.
- Sector-Specific Organizations: Companies in the retail, manufacturing, financial, healthcare, and public sectors (including federal, state, and local government) can utilize Lumen SD-WAN to meet their specific networking and security needs.