VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Detailed Review
Networking Tools
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Product Overview
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud Overview
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is a sophisticated networking solution that simplifies and optimizes Wide Area Network (WAN) management for enterprises. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud decouples networking software services from the underlying hardware, creating a secure, reliable, and transport-independent network overlay. This solution is designed to manage and optimize WAN connections, ensuring efficient and secure access to cloud-based applications, Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) destinations.Target Audience
The primary target audience for VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud includes enterprise IT organizations, particularly those with multiple branch offices or remote locations. This solution is beneficial for businesses looking to streamline their WAN infrastructure, reduce costs, and improve the performance and security of their network connections.Key Features
Architecture and Components
The solution is structured into three main layers: Cloud Network, Virtual Services Delivery, and SD-WAN Services Orchestration. It includes VMware SD-WAN Edge devices, which are zero-touch provisioned from the cloud, and gateways deployed at network points-of-presence and cloud data centers. These components work together to provide secure and optimized connectivity to various applications.Dynamic Multi-Path Optimization (DMPO)
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud features DMPO, which ensures high bandwidth, reliable connectivity, and low latency by dynamically using multiple available connections (such as MPLS, broadband, and LTE) to send traffic via optimal delivery paths. This functionality adapts to network issues in real-time, ensuring a reliable user experience.Virtualized Services and Automation
The solution allows for the seamless insertion and chaining of virtualized services on-premise or in the cloud, including services like routing, segmentation, Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), and voice quality monitoring. Automation and business policy-based orchestration enable low-touch branch network deployment, simplifying the deployment and management of services.Security and Interoperability
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud includes advanced security features such as zero-trust end-to-end segmentation, integration with third-party firewall and cloud security services, and compliance with strict security standards like FedRAMP, SOC2 Type 2, and ICSA certifications. The solution also supports interoperability with major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.Global Points of Presence (PoPs)
With over 200 points of presence around the world, VMware and its partners provide direct, low-latency paths to cloud and SaaS providers, simplifying connectivity without the need for IT to deploy SD-WAN resources in cloud provider networks.Integrated AIOps and Monitoring
The solution includes integrated VMware Edge Network Intelligence, which collects application performance information and uses network statistics to identify and communicate the root cause of degraded application performance, even in work-from-home Wi-Fi networks.Conclusion
In summary, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers a comprehensive, cloud-delivered solution that enhances enterprise WAN performance, security, and visibility, making it an attractive option for businesses seeking to optimize their network infrastructure. VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The primary management tool for VMware SD-WAN is the VeloCloud Orchestrator, which is a cloud-hosted or on-premises central management platform. This web-based user interface provides a simplified and centralized way to configure, provision, monitor, and manage the SD-WAN environment. The Orchestrator UI offers features such as business policy implementation, traffic management, fault management, logging, and reporting functions.
Ease of Use
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is known for its ease of deployment and management. The solution supports zero-touch provisioning, which means that the SD-WAN Edge devices can be automatically configured and connected to the network once powered on and linked to the internet. This eliminates the need for manual configuration, making the deployment process quick and straightforward.
Configuration and Monitoring
The interface allows users to define business policies to steer traffic based on application priority. For example, users can identify SaaS applications used by branch-office sites and remote users and configure traffic steering accordingly. The system automatically adjusts routing in real-time to optimize application performance, even under conditions of network packet loss, latency, and jitter.
Performance Monitoring
The platform includes built-in performance monitoring tools that provide metrics related to latency, jitter, and packet loss. These tools offer quantifiable evidence of the improvement in application performance after implementing VMware SD-WAN. This real-time monitoring helps in ensuring high application performance and availability.
Centralized Management
The VMware dashboard provides a central view of the entire network, allowing IT administrators to oversee branch deployments without needing to physically manage routing equipment on-premises. This centralized management simplifies network operations and enhances operational efficiency.
Security and Policy Control
The interface also enables the implementation of security policies and access controls. Users can define specific access policies for allowed and blocked websites, and the system can block access to certain websites as per the configured policies, ensuring secure branch-office and remote user connections.
Overall, the user interface of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is designed to be user-friendly, with a focus on simplifying WAN management, ensuring high application performance, and providing comprehensive security features. This makes it easier for IT administrators to manage their network infrastructure efficiently and effectively.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Key Features and Functionality
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is a comprehensive solution that integrates advanced networking, security, and AI-driven capabilities to optimize enterprise network performance and security. Here are the key features and how they work:
Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO)
DMPO is a core feature that automatically optimizes traffic paths across multiple links, including Internet and private networks. This ensures that applications are delivered over the most optimal links, reducing latency and improving overall application performance. DMPO works by continuously monitoring the network conditions and dynamically adjusting the traffic flow to maintain high-quality connections.
Zero-Touch Provisioning
The VeloCloud SD-WAN Edge devices can be deployed with zero-touch provisioning, meaning they can be configured and activated remotely through the VeloCloud Orchestrator interface. This simplifies the deployment process, eliminating the need for on-site IT personnel and reducing the time to get branch locations up and running.
Application Performance Optimization
VeloCloud SD-WAN optimizes application performance by recognizing and prioritizing different types of traffic. It ensures that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and quality of service (QoS) to perform optimally, even over less reliable Internet connections. This is particularly beneficial for real-time applications such as video conferencing and voice over IP (VoIP).
Enhanced Security
The solution includes an Enhanced Firewall Service based on VMware NSX security technology. This provides comprehensive security features such as intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), URL filtering, and malicious IP filtering. These features protect branch sites from unauthorized access and threats, and can be integrated with third-party security services for additional protection.
Cloud and SaaS Access
VeloCloud SD-WAN provides optimized and secure access to cloud services, including Software as a Service (SaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). The solution eliminates data center backhaul penalties by providing a direct, optimized path to public and private enterprise clouds, ensuring high-performance access to cloud-based applications.
AI and AIOps Integration
VMware SD-WAN leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and AIOps (AI for IT Operations) within its Edge Network Intelligence. This helps enterprises identify the best network paths to the cloud, proactively notify operations teams of potential issues, and take remedial actions. The AI/ML technology also provides deep visibility and analytics of endpoints and IoT devices, enhancing security monitoring and threat detection.
Centralized Management
The VeloCloud SD-WAN Orchestrator offers centralized enterprise-wide management, allowing for real-time monitoring, configuration, and one-click provisioning of virtual services across edges, both on-premise and in the cloud. This single management interface simplifies WAN management and ensures consistent security and connectivity across all locations.
Global Network of Gateways
VeloCloud’s distributed, global network of gateways provides scalability, redundancy, and on-demand flexibility. These gateways are deployed at key network points-of-presence and cloud data centers, ensuring high-speed, low-latency connections to major cloud and SaaS providers.
Edge Compute and Networking
The integration of VeloCloud SD-WAN with VMware Edge Compute Stack enables the processing of workloads such as machine learning and AI at the edge, without the need to send data to a cloud or data center for processing. This is particularly useful for applications requiring real-time data processing, such as video streaming in emergency vehicles or retail store monitoring systems.
Conclusion
In summary, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud combines advanced networking, security, and AI-driven capabilities to deliver a highly optimized, secure, and manageable WAN solution that supports the diverse needs of modern enterprises.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud involves examining several key aspects of the product, including its features, benefits, and any identified limitations.
Performance
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is renowned for its ability to optimize network performance, particularly in managing wide area network (WAN) traffic. Here are some key performance highlights:
Dynamic Path Selection
This feature allows the system to automatically determine the best-performing path for each application based on real-time metrics such as latency, jitter, and packet loss. This ensures that applications are always routed over the most optimal path, enhancing overall performance.
Application-Aware Routing
This feature enables traffic to be routed based on application type, business priority, and performance requirements. It prioritizes critical applications over less important traffic, ensuring that mission-critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and quality of service (QoS).
SaaS Optimization
VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN includes features like the Direct Cloud Gateway, which reduces latency and improves performance by routing SaaS traffic directly to cloud gateways rather than backhauling it through a data center. Additionally, VMware partners with major SaaS providers to offer optimized routing and integrated monitoring for popular applications.
WAN Optimization
Features such as compression, deduplication, and Forward Error Correction (FEC) help reduce bandwidth consumption and improve application responsiveness. FEC, for instance, reconstructs lost packets at the destination, reducing the impact of packet loss.
Accuracy
The accuracy of VMware SD-WAN is enhanced through several mechanisms:
Real-Time Monitoring
The VeloCloud Orchestrator provides real-time insights into network performance, allowing administrators to detect bottlenecks and analyze application behavior accurately. This real-time monitoring helps in identifying and addressing performance challenges effectively.
AI-Driven Operations
VMware has integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into its SD-WAN solution to simplify operations. AI-driven features, such as those in VMware Edge Network Intelligence, help identify better network paths to the cloud and proactively notify operations teams to take remedial action.
Automated Traffic Steering
The system automatically adjusts traffic routing in real-time based on network conditions, ensuring that applications are always optimized for the best possible performance.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers significant performance and accuracy benefits, there are some limitations and areas for improvement:
Scaling Issues
Some users have reported issues when scaling the solution to larger environments, which can impact its overall performance and manageability.
Feature Limitations
Certain features have limitations, restricting advanced configurations. This can be a challenge for organizations with complex network requirements.
Complexity
The solution can be complex to configure and manage, especially for those without extensive experience in SD-WAN technologies. This complexity can lead to a steeper learning curve and higher operational costs.
Hardware Redundancy
While SD-WAN Edge devices can be configured to support hardware redundancy, this may not be fully optimized in all deployment scenarios, which could affect overall reliability and uptime.
In summary, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers strong performance and accuracy through its dynamic path selection, application-aware routing, and AI-driven operations. However, it is important to be aware of the potential scaling issues, feature limitations, and complexity in configuration and management to ensure the best possible deployment and use of the product.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Pricing and Plans
The Pricing Structure for VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
The pricing structure for VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is varied and depends on several factors, including the edition, support level, and bandwidth requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the different plans and features:
Contract-Based Plans
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers plans based on contract durations, typically 12 months. Here are some of the options available:
Enterprise Edition:
- 10 Mbps Basic Support: $310.00 per 12 months.
- 10 Mbps Production Support: $326.00 per 12 months.
- 100 Mbps Production Support: $1,197.00 per 12 months.
Premium Edition:
- 1 Gbps Premier Support: $7,212.00 per 12 months.
- 30 Mbps Premier Support: $856.00 per 12 months.
- 50 Mbps Production Support: $1,292.00 per 12 months, and Premier Support: $1,317.00 per 12 months.
- 100 Mbps Production Support: $1,722.00 per 12 months, and Premier Support: $1,755.00 per 12 months.
- 200 Mbps Premier Support: $3,029.00 per 12 months.
Work-from-Home (WFH) Subscriptions
VMware also offers specific subscriptions for work-from-home users:
Standard WFH Subscription:
- Supports up to three business devices.
- Up to 350 Mbps of throughput.
- Includes direct SaaS and cloud VPN access, and improved app reliability and performance.
- Simple setup without corporate IT intervention.
- Network segmentation to separate and prioritize business apps.
WFH Pro Subscription:
- Supports up to six business devices.
- Up to 1 Gbps of throughput.
- Suitable for power users who need higher bandwidth for tasks like transmitting large files or handling critical voice and video communications.
- Includes the same features as the Standard WFH Subscription.
Additional Features and Services
- SD-WAN Services: Include DMPO, Cloud VPN, routing, segmentation, NGFW, and voice quality monitoring. These services can be provided by VeloCloud or third-party virtual services.
- VMware Edge Network Intelligence: Provides AI-driven insights into network performance, including home Wi-Fi networks, to help IT administrators and users troubleshoot issues like dropped VoIP calls and jittery video connections.
Free Options
- Free Trial: VMware offers a free trial for their SD-WAN solution, allowing potential customers to test the product before committing to a purchase.
Refund Policy
- There are no refunds or return options for the licenses purchased. For any refund inquiries, you need to contact the respective support teams.
This structure highlights the various tiers and features available, catering to different user needs and organizational requirements.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Prisma Access
One key integration is with Prisma Access, a cloud-based security solution. To integrate VeloCloud SD-WAN with Prisma Access, you configure a remote network tunnel in Prisma Access, allowing the VeloCloud SD-WAN device to send traffic through this tunnel. This setup enables Prisma Access to protect internet-directed traffic, including SaaS applications and other publicly accessible resources. The configuration involves setting up IKE and IPSec parameters, creating crypto profiles, and configuring the remote network connection using tools like Panorama or the Strata Cloud Manager.
Compatibility with Cloud Platforms
VMware SD-WAN Edge devices are highly compatible with major cloud platforms. They are available as virtual appliances on Amazon Web Services (AWS), Azure Cloud, Google Cloud, and Alibaba Cloud, allowing for easy deployment and management in cloud environments. This cloud-delivered model simplifies WAN deployment and management, making it easier for organizations to adopt and scale their SD-WAN solutions.
Support for Various Devices and Connections
VeloCloud SD-WAN supports a wide range of devices and connections. The Edge devices can terminate multiple WAN connections, including fixed wireless access and newly added satellite connectivity, making them suitable for remote locations with limited internet access. These devices can also support routing protocols such as OSPF and BGP, and they are available as physical appliances or virtual network functions (VNFs) for deployment on standard x86 servers.
Integration with Security Solutions
VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN has integrated security features, including built-in firewalls and encryption. Additionally, Broadcom has integrated VeloCloud with Symantec’s security solutions, such as the Symantec Security Edge, which provides features like zero-trust network access, secure web gateways, and firewall as a service. This integration enhances the security posture of the SD-WAN solution, offering a bundled networking and security service through the VeloCloud Secure Access Service Edge (SASE).
Dynamic Multipath Optimization and Edge Compute
VeloCloud SD-WAN features Dynamic Multipath Optimization, which automatically tunes the WAN based on data gathered from the underlying network and applications. This capability, combined with VMware Edge Compute Stack, allows for running workloads such as machine learning and AI at the edge, ensuring reliable and high-speed connectivity even in challenging environments like ambulances or rural areas.
Conclusion
In summary, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers extensive integration and compatibility, making it a versatile solution for various networking and security needs across different platforms and devices.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
VMware provides several support plans to cater to different needs:
Software Support Plans
These include Basic, Production, and Premier levels. Each plan offers varying levels of support, such as 24×7 coverage for critical issues (Sev1), with response times ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours depending on the severity and plan chosen.
Hardware Replacement Services
For physical appliances, there are Standard, Standard Plus, Advanced, and Premium hardware support plans. These plans include options such as 10-day return to factory, same-day shipment of replacement edges, and even 4-hour on-site replacement for qualified locations.
Call Center Support
The support is available 24×7 for critical issues and 12×5 for less severe issues, depending on the support plan.
Additional Resources
Documentation and Guides
Detailed reference architecture guides are available, such as the one provided by Dell Technologies, which outlines the deployment and management of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud. These guides cover aspects like network architecture, deployment tiers, and configuration of business policies.
Orchestrator and Management Tools
The VMware SD-WAN Orchestrator provides centralized enterprise-wide management, real-time monitoring, and one-click provisioning of virtual services across edges and cloud services. This tool simplifies WAN management and allows for easy policy configuration and enforcement.
Integration Guides
Step-by-step guides are available for integrating VMware SD-WAN with other services, such as the Forcepoint Cloud Security Gateway. These guides help in configuring the VeloCloud Orchestrator and the security gateway to apply web security policies effectively.
Edge Platform Specifications
Comprehensive datasheets outline the specifications and features of the VeloCloud SD-WAN Edge platforms, including hardware models, security features, and support for various cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Joint Solution Briefs
Solution briefs, such as the one with Zscaler, provide insights into how VMware SD-WAN can be integrated with other solutions to optimize and secure access to cloud applications, ensuring compliance and a high-quality user experience.
These resources and support options ensure that customers have the necessary tools and assistance to deploy, manage, and optimize their VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud solutions effectively.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Pros and Cons
Advantages of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers several significant advantages that make it a compelling solution for network management and optimization:
Optimal Connectivity and Performance
The solution dynamically uses multiple available connections (MPLS, broadband, LTE) to send traffic via the optimal delivery paths, ensuring consistent application performance and overcoming quality issues and outages.
Bandwidth Expansion
It aggregates WAN circuits of any type, providing economic bandwidth expansion and faster response times even for single application flows.
Automation and Orchestration
VMware SD-WAN automates branch deployments, allowing branches to be set up in minutes with zero-touch provisioning from the cloud. It also provides centralized monitoring, visibility, and cloud control.
Virtual Services
The platform supports multiple virtualized network functions, eliminating the need for single-function appliances and reducing branch IT complexity. This includes seamless insertion and chaining of virtualized services on-premises and in the cloud.
Cloud Integration
It provides direct and optimized access to cloud-based applications, eliminating data center backhaul penalties and offering an optimized direct path to public and private enterprise clouds.
Security
VMware SD-WAN includes built-in firewall and encryption capabilities, ensuring secure connectivity between edge compute nodes and the core network. It also integrates with Symantec for advanced Security Service Edge (SSE) capabilities and operates on zero-trust principles.
Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO)
This feature enhances link quality and ensures data integrity by aggregating multiple links and steering traffic over the optimal paths.
Disadvantages of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
While VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offers numerous benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
High Costs
The solution is often praised for its manageability and stability but is criticized for its high costs, which can be a significant barrier for some organizations.
Configuration Complexity
Setting up and configuring VMware SD-WAN can be complex, which may require additional resources and expertise.
Technical Support
There is a need for improvement in technical support, as some users have reported difficulties in getting adequate assistance.
Security Features
Although the solution includes built-in security features, it lacks native advanced security functionality and relies on partner firewalls or cloud security services. Additionally, it does not provide native support for IPv6, which is increasingly important for IoT deployments.
Integration Capabilities
Some users have noted that the integration capabilities of VMware SD-WAN could be improved, particularly in terms of seamless integration with other systems and services.
By weighing these pros and cons, organizations can make an informed decision about whether VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud aligns with their networking needs and budget.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is distinguished by its comprehensive cloud-delivered solution. Here are some of its unique features:
Centralized Management and Orchestration
The VMware SD-WAN Orchestrator provides enterprise-wide management, real-time monitoring, and orchestrates data flow efficiently. This includes a three-layer architecture: Cloud Network, Virtual Services Delivery, and SD-WAN Services Orchestration.
Zero-Touch Deployment
The solution offers zero-touch provisioning with the VMware SD-WAN Edge device, which can be configured and implemented remotely without the need for on-site network technologists.
Dynamic Multipath Optimization (DMPO)
This feature optimizes application traffic steering between multiple underlays without session interruption, ensuring subsecond failover and link remediation.
Integrated Virtual Services
It supports a range of virtualized services such as routing, segmentation, NGFW, and voice quality monitoring, both from VeloCloud and third-party providers.
Comparison with Juniper Networks AI-Native Networking Platform
Juniper Networks’ AI-native platform is another significant player in the market:
Unified AI Engine
Juniper’s platform unifies campus, branch, and data center networking operations via a common AI engine and the Mist Marvis Virtual Network Assistant (VNA). This results in reliable, measurable, and secure connections for all devices and applications.
Operational Efficiency
Juniper’s platform reduces networking trouble tickets by up to 90%, OpEx by up to 85%, and incident resolution time by up to 50%.
Key Difference
While VMware SD-WAN focuses on SD-WAN and cloud connectivity, Juniper’s platform has a broader scope, covering entire network operations across different environments.
Comparison with Nile AI Services Platform
Nile, an AI networking pioneer, offers a distinct set of features:
AI-Based Network Design and Automation
Nile’s platform includes AI-based network design, automated network deployment, and AI-powered network monitoring and operations. It integrates security, cloud-native service delivery, and closed-loop automation.
Integrated Security and Automation
Nile’s platform is particularly strong in automating network design, configuration, and management, which is different from VMware SD-WAN’s focus on SD-WAN and cloud optimization.
Comparison with AI Network Monitoring Tools
Tools like LogicMonitor, Auvik, and NinjaOne focus more on network monitoring and management rather than SD-WAN:
Predictive Analytics and Anomaly Detection
These tools use AI to predict network failures, detect anomalies, and provide intelligent troubleshooting. For example, LogicMonitor and Auvik offer predictive analytics and automated anomaly detection to proactively address network issues.
Key Difference
While these tools are excellent for network monitoring and predictive maintenance, they do not offer the same level of SD-WAN functionality and cloud connectivity optimization as VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud.
Alternatives and Considerations
Cisco Umbrella
If security is a primary concern, Cisco Umbrella might be a better fit, offering DNS-based protection, dynamic content filtering, and threat isolation measures. However, it lacks the superior network performance features of VMware SD-WAN.
Juniper Networks and Nile
For a more comprehensive network management solution that goes beyond SD-WAN, Juniper or Nile might be more suitable, especially if you need unified AI-driven operations across different network environments.
In summary, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud stands out for its specialized SD-WAN capabilities, cloud optimization, and zero-touch deployment. However, depending on your specific needs, other tools may offer better solutions in areas like unified network management or advanced network monitoring.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
Q: What is VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud, and how does it work?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is a cloud-delivered solution that simplifies wide area network (WAN) management by combining the economics of the internet with the flexibility of the cloud. It works by aggregating multiple WAN circuits (such as MPLS, LTE, Wi-Fi, and broadband) to provide a hybrid WAN with high performance and reliability. The solution uses traffic steering technology to select the best path for each application, ensuring consistent performance and overcoming quality issues and outages.
Q: What are the key components of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud?
The key components include the VMware SD-WAN Edge, Gateways, and the Orchestrator. The SD-WAN Edge is a device or virtualized cloud instance that provides secure and optimized connectivity to applications. Gateways are deployed at network points-of-presence and cloud data centers, performing SD-WAN control plane functions and acting as route reflectors. The Orchestrator is a cloud-based configuration and monitoring portal that manages routes and business policies across the network.
Q: How does VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud improve application performance?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud improves application performance through several mechanisms. It uses Dynamic Multi-Path Optimization (DMPO) to aggregate multiple links and steer traffic over the optimal links. It also employs congestion mitigation technology to improve performance over single links and adapts to slight degradation without impacting the user experience. Additionally, it provides application performance optimization for virtual private instances at IaaS/PaaS/SaaS destinations.
Q: Can VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud be deployed quickly and easily?
Yes, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud enables low-touch branch network deployment through automation and business policy-based orchestration. The VMware SD-WAN Edge can be activated from the cloud in minutes, with automatic WAN circuit discovery and monitoring eliminating the need for link-by-link and branch-by-branch configuration. This zero-touch provisioning simplifies the deployment process significantly.
Q: How does VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud handle security?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud includes several security features. It provides secure SD-WAN overlay tunnels (Edge-to-Edge or Edge-to-Cloud) and supports virtualized network functions such as next-generation firewalls (NGFW) and cloud web security. The solution also manages network connectivity and security policies through the Orchestrator, which can integrate with partner security services while managing its own native embedded firewall.
Q: What kind of virtual services can be supported by VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud supports multiple virtualized network functions, including routing, segmentation, NGFW, and voice quality monitoring. It also allows for the seamless insertion and chaining of virtualized services on-premises and in the cloud, reducing the branch office footprint and eliminating the need for single-function appliances.
Q: How does VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud manage routing?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud uses a proprietary protocol called VCRP for routing, which is multi-path capable and secured through VCMP transport. The SD-WAN Gateways act as BGP route reflectors, reflecting routes from one SD-WAN Edge to another within the enterprise. The Orchestrator manages routes and can override default routing behavior, ensuring efficient full mesh VPN connectivity without the need for a full mesh of tunnels.
Q: Can VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud be integrated with other cloud services?
Yes, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud provides optimized direct paths to public and private enterprise clouds, eliminating data center backhaul penalties. It supports access to traditional DC-hosted, Software as a Service (SaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) applications, ensuring secure and managed connectivity to these services.
Q: How does VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud handle failover and link remediation?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud ensures high reliability with subsecond failover and link remediation. It can detect slight degradation in link quality and automatically switch traffic to the best available link without interrupting sessions, ensuring continuous application performance.
Q: What kind of monitoring and visibility does VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud offer?
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud provides centralized monitoring, visibility, and cloud control through the Orchestrator. It offers real-time and historical connectivity and application information, as well as remote diagnostics tools to confirm LAN/WAN reachability and access through the Cloud Gateway.
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is a sophisticated networking solution that integrates advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and software-defined networking to optimize wide area network (WAN) performance. Here’s a comprehensive assessment of its benefits and who would most benefit from using it.
Key Features and Benefits
AI-Driven Management
AI-Driven Management: VMware SD-WAN leverages AI to simplify operations, including rapid zero-touch provisioning, cloud management, and optimized application performance over any WAN link. This AI-driven approach helps in analyzing real-time network telemetry data to improve network performance and user experience.
Dynamic Multipath Optimization
Dynamic Multipath Optimization: The solution aggregates multiple WAN links (such as MPLS, LTE, Wi-Fi, and broadband) and uses traffic steering technology to select the best path for each application, ensuring consistent performance and overcoming quality issues and outages.
Edge Compute Integration
Edge Compute Integration: It seamlessly integrates with VMware Edge Compute Stack, enabling the processing of workloads such as machine learning and AI at the edge location without the need to send data to a cloud or data center for processing. This is particularly useful in scenarios like live video streaming from a connected ambulance or monitoring systems in retail and manufacturing.
Security and SASE
Security and SASE: VMware SD-WAN includes built-in firewall and encryption capabilities, ensuring secure connectivity. It also integrates with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) strategies, offering features like data loss prevention (DLP) and intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS).
Centralized Management
Centralized Management: The cloud-based VMware SD-WAN Orchestrator provides enterprise-wide business policy, configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoring, making it easier to manage and maintain the network.
Who Would Benefit Most
Enterprises with Distributed Workforces
Enterprises with Distributed Workforces: Companies with branch offices or remote workers will benefit from the reliable, secure, and optimal delivery of applications and data across any network to any device. The solution ensures consistent security and connectivity regardless of the user’s or device’s location.
Organizations with Real-Time Application Needs
Organizations with Real-Time Application Needs: Businesses that rely on real-time applications, such as healthcare services (e.g., live video streams from ambulances), retail (e.g., video inferencing systems), and manufacturing (e.g., monitoring parts on a production line), will find VMware SD-WAN particularly valuable due to its ability to prioritize and maintain stable connections for critical applications.
Service Providers
Service Providers: Service providers can leverage VMware SD-WAN to offer differentiated, monetizable services to their customers. The platform’s programmable services and network programmability enable service providers to deliver high-quality, reliable connectivity and specialized services.
Overall Recommendation
VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud is a highly recommended solution for organizations seeking to enhance their WAN performance, security, and management. Its integration of AI and machine learning capabilities makes it an advanced tool for optimizing network operations and ensuring high application performance. The solution is particularly beneficial for enterprises with distributed workforces, real-time application needs, and service providers looking to offer premium network services.
Given its comprehensive features, ease of management, and advanced security capabilities, VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud stands out as a reliable and efficient choice for modern networking needs.