Gartner defines software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) as products used to connect branch locations to other enterprise and cloud locations. SD-WAN products provide dynamic path selection based on business or application policy, routing, centralized orchestration of policy and management of appliances, virtual private network (VPN) and zero-touch configuration. SD-WAN products are WAN transport/carrier-agnostic and create secure paths across physical WAN connections.
Fortinet Secure SD-WAN is a software that integrates networking and security features to optimize application performance and network management across distributed enterprise environments. The software offers centralized control of WAN traffic, application-aware routing, and built-in security through advanced threat protection measures. It supports multiple connection types, simplifies branch deployments, and enables consistent policy enforcement for users and devices. Fortinet Secure SD-WAN addresses challenges related to bandwidth efficiency, network scalability, and secure connectivity for organizations with remote offices and cloud-based resources. The software is designed to facilitate reliable business application delivery while helping businesses reduce complexity and maintain security across their wide area networks.
Versa Secure SD-WAN is a software that provides software-defined wide area networking for enterprises and service providers. The software integrates routing, security, and networking functions into a single platform, supporting WAN segmentation, traffic steering, application-aware policies, and multi-cloud connectivity. It addresses the need for flexible and centralized management of network resources, reducing complexity in branch and remote office connectivity. The software enables organizations to optimize application performance and prioritize business-critical traffic while automating security compliance across distributed sites. It can be deployed as on-premises, cloud, or hybrid solution to accommodate various deployment requirements and business architectures.
Prisma SD-WAN is a software developed to optimize and manage enterprise wide-area networks by using application-aware routing and centralized orchestration. The software enables automated network provisioning, dynamic path selection, and real-time visibility into network performance. It provides advanced security features and analytics to support secure and efficient connectivity between branch offices, data centers, and cloud environments. Prisma SD-WAN addresses business challenges related to network reliability, scalability, and cost management by enabling centralized management and policy enforcement across distributed network environments. The software supports integration with cloud-based services and security solutions to ensure consistent protection and performance for distributed organizations.
Huawei SD-WAN Solution is a software designed to support enterprise networking through centralized management, intelligent traffic steering, and optimized connectivity across multiple branch locations. The software enables secure data transmission and provides application-based control to enhance network agility and simplify deployment. It offers capabilities for managing both on-premises and cloud-based connections, facilitates automated network configuration, and provides integrated monitoring and reporting functions. The software aims to address challenges related to complex branch networking, limited bandwidth efficiency, and difficulties in managing hybrid networks by enabling flexible policy management and reliable communication between distributed sites.
Aryaka SmartCONNECT is a software designed to deliver managed Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) connectivity for global enterprises. The software facilitates secure and reliable networking across distributed locations and cloud resources by integrating WAN optimization, dynamic path selection, and network visibility features. SmartCONNECT provides centralized management for configuring network policies, prioritizing applications, and monitoring performance, aiming to address business challenges such as bandwidth constraints, latency, and network complexity. The software supports seamless integration with existing network infrastructure and cloud services, helping organizations optimize application delivery and streamline connectivity for remote offices and users.
Cisco Meraki SD-WAN is a software solution that enables centralized management and optimization of wide area networks across multiple sites. The software streamlines network traffic by dynamically routing data over different types of connections such as MPLS, broadband, or LTE, based on real-time application and network conditions. It provides features including automated VPN connectivity, traffic analytics, application visibility, and policy-based routing to help organizations enhance network performance, ensure availability, and reduce operational complexity. Cisco Meraki SD-WAN is designed to address business challenges related to network reliability, performance optimization, and simplified administration for distributed enterprises.
HPE Aruba Networking EdgeConnect SD-WAN is a software solution designed to optimize and secure wide area network connections for enterprises. It enables centralized management of network traffic across multiple locations, providing features such as dynamic path control, real-time application optimization, and integrated security functions. The software addresses business challenges related to network complexity and reliability by facilitating efficient bandwidth utilization and seamless connectivity for critical applications. It offers advanced encryption and segmentation to enhance data security and includes tools for monitoring network performance in real time. The software helps organizations reduce operational overhead while improving application response times and resilience against network disruptions.
Quantum SD-WAN is a software designed to optimize and secure wide area network connectivity for businesses by integrating software-defined networking and security features. The software facilitates dynamic path selection, bandwidth management, and application-based routing to enhance network performance and reliability across distributed sites. It incorporates unified threat prevention and streamlined connectivity, enabling organizations to manage network traffic efficiently while maintaining security policies. Quantum SD-WAN addresses the business challenge of managing complex, multi-site networks by providing centralized visibility, simplified operations, and policy enforcement across cloud and on-premises environments.
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN is a software designed to facilitate secure and efficient wide area network connectivity for organizations. The software enables centralized management of network devices and traffic, providing features such as intelligent path selection, application optimization, and automated provisioning. It addresses challenges associated with traditional WANs by supporting cloud integration and dynamic bandwidth allocation, enhancing network performance and reliability. The software incorporates monitoring, analytics, and security controls to ensure compliance and operational visibility. Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN is intended to streamline network operations, reduce complexity, and support scalable connectivity across distributed environments.
Cato SASE Cloud is a software platform that integrates networking and security capabilities using a cloud-native architecture. The software combines secure access service edge functions such as SD-WAN, firewall as a service, secure web gateway, cloud access security broker, and zero trust network access. It enables organizations to connect physical locations, cloud resources, and remote users to a unified, secure global network. By providing centralized management and visibility, the software helps address challenges related to complex network infrastructure, security policy enforcement, and remote connectivity. It is designed to support digital transformation initiatives and simplify both connectivity and security management across distributed environments.
Forcepoint Next Generation Firewall is a software designed to provide network security through advanced threat prevention, intrusion detection and prevention, VPN connectivity, and centralized management. The software enables organizations to enforce security policies across distributed networks and helps protect data from unauthorized access and cyber threats. It incorporates deep packet inspection, supports multi-link connectivity for resilience, and facilitates segmentation to limit lateral movement within networks. The software addresses business needs for robust network defense, compliance with regulatory requirements, and efficient management of evolving security infrastructures. It is designed for scalability and integrates with other security systems for coordinated protection.
SRX Series Services Gateways software provides integrated security and networking features for enterprise and service provider environments. The software delivers firewall protection, intrusion prevention, application visibility and control, advanced threat defense, and secure connectivity through virtual private networks. It supports scalable performance and flexible deployment options to address network segmentation, compliance requirements, and operational efficiency. The software enables centralized management and automation to streamline administration and policy enforcement, helping organizations safeguard critical resources and maintain secure data flows across distributed locations and cloud architectures.
Ericsson NetCloud Service is software designed to facilitate cloud-based network management and automation for telecommunications providers and enterprises. The software offers centralized orchestration, real-time network monitoring, and dynamic resource allocation to support digital infrastructure and service delivery. It enables virtualization of network functions, streamlining deployment and maintenance processes while enhancing visibility into network performance. Ericsson NetCloud Service helps organizations address operational complexity by supporting integration with multiple platforms and providing tools for efficient scaling, configuration, and fault management within distributed cloud environments. This software aims to improve reliability and flexibility of network operations for businesses managing modern connectivity needs.
MAX Series is a software developed by Peplink that enables advanced wireless connectivity solutions for mobile and remote environments. The software supports features such as multi-WAN load balancing, seamless failover, VPN support, and network management capabilities. It is designed to address business challenges related to reliable internet access, bandwidth optimization, and secure data transmission across locations. With capabilities in cellular bonding and integrated Wi-Fi, the software helps organizations maintain consistent connectivity in vehicles, branch offices, and temporary sites. The software includes remote monitoring and centralized management functionalities, enabling administrators to deploy, monitor, and control networks efficiently. It is used for applications where mobility and uninterrupted connectivity are critical to business operations.
Citrix SD-WAN is a software solution designed to optimize and secure enterprise network connectivity across multiple locations. The software facilitates reliable application performance by dynamically managing network traffic and automatically directing data along the best available paths. It offers features such as centralized management, WAN optimization, application-level visibility, and flexible deployment options to support cloud and on-premises environments. Citrix SD-WAN aims to address business challenges related to complex networks, application delivery, and connectivity reliability by ensuring consistent user experiences, minimizing downtime, and improving bandwidth utilization.
Balance Series is a software developed for network management and connectivity, focusing on facilitating reliable internet connections for organizations with demanding requirements. The software provides features such as seamless WAN failover, advanced load balancing, VPN bonding, and bandwidth control, aimed at maintaining uninterrupted network access across multiple internet sources. It enables centralized monitoring and remote management of devices, simplifying administration and troubleshooting for IT professionals. The software addresses the business challenge of ensuring consistent and secure connectivity in locations where internet reliability is essential, supporting a variety of deployments including enterprise branch offices, remote work settings, and multi-site organizations.
FlexEdge Secure SD-WAN integrates networking and security for distributed businesses and government agencies. It offers application-based control that enables private MPLS and internet broadband links to be used more efficiently together while protecting both machine-to-machine and user-to-app communications against advanced threats. By combining multi-link networking and intrusion prevention with zero-touch deployment and updating, it provides centralized visibility and control with high performance that scales to thousands of sites. When used with the Forcepoint ONE SSE platform, FlexEdge Secure SD-WAN delivers true SASE and “secure branch” solutions that boost productivity, cut costs, reduce risk, and streamline compliance.
NetEngine AR Series Enterprise Router is a software designed to manage enterprise network connectivity, routing, and security. It enables integration of wired and wireless connections, supports high-speed data transmission, and facilitates branch interconnection by delivering functions such as VPN, firewall protection, and intelligent traffic management. The software assists organizations in simplifying network deployment and optimizing resource utilization by supporting cloud access, dynamic routing protocols, and centralized management. It addresses business requirements for secure and reliable data exchange between headquarters and distributed branches, enhancing communication efficiency, reducing operational complexity, and improving overall network resilience.
RansNet SD-Branch Series is a software solution designed to enable secure and centralized management of network connectivity for distributed branch sites. The software provides functions such as software-defined wide area networking, branch connectivity, network segmentation, and integrated security controls. It helps organizations streamline deployment and management of branch networks by automating configuration and policies, supporting connectivity through different types of WAN links, and ensuring secure data transmission across locations. The software addresses business challenges related to running and maintaining complex branch networks by offering remote management, resilience features, and visibility into network performance, thus facilitating consistent operations across multiple sites.
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Features of SD-WAN
Updated September 2025
Mandatory Features:
Virtual private network
Form factor for branch, data center and cloud locations: Software that can be deployed on a branded hardware appliance or third-party hardware at a branch, data center or other enterprise location; Software deployed in the public cloud as a virtual instance
A centralized mechanism for:
Configuration (zero-touch configuration); Management; Visibility/analytics/troubleshooting; Reporting
Functionality: Ability to replace a branch router (for example, support for Border Gateway Protocol [BGP]); Application-aware dynamic path selection (for example, Layer 7 traffic steering) across multiple physical interfaces
Peer Lessons Learned for SD-WAN
Published May 2025
These lessons focuses on the responses to the questions: “If you could start over, what would your organization do differently?” and “What one piece of advice would you give other prospective customers?”