How SD-WAN is better than MPLS
SD-WAN can aggregate multiple cheaper network links to provide similar performance to MPLS. However, SD-WAN can also integrate MPLS into its path selection capabilities to harness MPLS performance SLAs.
SD-WAN (Software Defined Wide Area Networking) is better than MPLS (Multi Protocol Label Switching) because the technology is more in-line with the needs of almost all modern Enterprise businesses. * Note that there is always an exception to the rule and each use case is different.
Here are the main reasons why SD-WAN is now a preferred WAN technology vs MPLS:
- Cost savings - SD-WAN is capable of using low cost broadband and cellular Internet connectivity which reduces cost when compared to MPLS.
- Traffic steering - SD-WAN can dynamically route traffic based on your network administrators preference or network conditions.
- Public cloud - SD-WAN enables users and branch offices to access their cloud applications from wherever they are located without the restrictive privacy of MPLS.
- SASE & SSE Security - SD-WAN is often sold with SASE and SSE security which makes the Enterprise much more secure than MPLS by applying end point protection.
- Agility - SD-WAN can be managed by the Enterprise via simple to use configuration and deployment portals with sophisticated reporting and statistics.
Robert Sturt is a leading expert in SD-WAN and enterprise network solutions with extensive experience in telecommunications and network infrastructure. As a Forbes Business Council member and contributor to TechTarget, he provides strategic insights on network transformation and digital connectivity solutions. His expertise spans SD-WAN implementation, network security, and enterprise digital transformation initiatives.
Fact-checked by: Harry Yelland - Cybersecurity Writer, Netify