Since the introduction of software-defined networking (SDN) in 2011, the spread of SDN has been somewhat slow. That is, until recently when cloud architectures have become industry-dominant, and businesses look for opportunities to reduce the complexities that accompany a diverse cloud stack. The SDN market has been rising rapidly along with cloud adoption. In fact, Global Marketing Insights predicts that SDN networking will be an $88 billion industry by 2024.
For organizations in hyper-sensitive business avenues, like finance, banking, security, and government to name a few, making the switch may leave your entire network more secure and stabilized. At the same time, those firms who manage a complex array of apps may find SDN networking is more accessible and more easily managed.
Let’s break down what software-defined networking is, and talk about what security advantages it offers. Next, we will discuss some potential benefits and weaknesses that are packaged within this new networking technology.
In traditional networking models, devices make package and traffic decisions via a unique routing table. So, each network device acts as an individual agent capable of commanding its own communication with networking applications.
A software-defined network, on the other hand, uses an SDN controller to manage interactions between applications and network devices, which means that all devices are contained in a centralized hub and communications between network devices and network applications are processed abstractly.
This means that network engineers can manage the network via the SDN controller, without the need to access the individual networking devices. This process not only reduces human touch-points and redundancies, but it also frees up each networking device to be assessed and manipulated at a granular level.
In today’s security ecosystem, cybersecurity elements are a mission-critical aspect of any businesses networking structure. This is especially true for companies such as banks, credit unions, credit companies, and the like.
There are multiple distinct benefits that SDNs provide these types of institutions that traditional networking simply cannot. At the same time, this relatively new networking space does have some drawbacks that are important to consider before making the switch.
Of course, there are other benefits that arise out of SDN networking such as the use of SD-WAN to abstract network control virtually through a businesses WAN. But, these aren’t directly SDN benefits — they are benefits that exist through the SDN networking technology. As with any business solution, one must weigh the benefits against any potential pitfalls.
Outside of security, SDN networking has many benefits that can drastically shift the way that organizations handle their networking.
Software defined networking is capable of abstracting the vast array of networking nodes into one convenient platform. This makes maintaining connections, delivering critical updates, and quarantining crucial security issues simple and effective. At the same time, SDN reduces touchpoints, introduces automation capabilities and helps remove mundane and repetitive tasks from the networking workflow.
For businesses, making the switch to an SDN network can introduce opportunity, cut costs, and simplify operations. As with any technology, it’s essential to take adequate time to weigh the advantages against the disadvantages. Not all SDN vendors deliver SDN products, and it’s vital that you choose a vendor with an emphasis on security and effectiveness.
If your business is looking to make the switch to a faster, more connected software defined networking solution, contact us.
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