Tuesday, October 17, 2017

Word of the Day: hybrid WAN

Word of the Day WhatIs.com
Daily updates on the latest technology terms |October 17, 2017
hybrid WAN

A hybrid WAN is a wide area network that sends traffic over two or more connection types. Hybrid WANs permit dynamic traffic engineering across both private and public domains, using a variety of connectivity options to make the best use of network resources. In its strictest sense, a hybrid WAN uses dedicated multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) circuits, plus carrier Ethernet, plus T3 links.

A hybrid approach allows network engineers to save money by maintaining dedicated lines for mission-critical traffic and sending lower-priority traffic over a less expensive circuit or connection. This approach is particularly attractive to enterprises with multiple branch offices. By routing such traffic over multiple links, network engineers can tap into adequate bandwidth as required and reduce the impact geographic distance has on application performance.

Security advantages a hybrid WAN can provide include:

  • Support for IPSec and Secure Socket Layer termination.
  • Support for security tokens and network firewalls to restrict traffic types, certain users or to segregate extranet partners.
  • The ability to terminate all traffic sources from both office and remote users, including MPLS and virtual private LAN service.

Hybrid WAN is closely aligned with, but not identical to, software-defined WAN (SD-WAN). In this approach, programming dynamically routes traffic over available connections based on network policies and available bandwidth. Many hybrid WANs have an SDN component, although it is not required.

Quote of the Day

"Many large organizations are moving away from exclusive hybrid WAN vs. SD-WAN choices and are deploying SD-WAN as part of their hybrid WAN options." - Lee Doyle

 

Trending Terms

MLPS
SD-WAN
Secure Sockets Layer
leased line
security token

virtual private LAN service

 
Learning Center

Is it hybrid WAN vs. SD-WAN, or does SD-WAN help implement hybrid WAN?
It's not a matter of hybrid WAN vs. SD-WAN. The two technologies can be used together to make deployment and operation easier.

SD-WAN-only devices disappearing as market matures
SD-WAN vendors are responding to customer demand with multifunction networking appliances. As a result, SD-WAN is vanishing as a stand-alone product in the branch office.

Is a hybrid WAN architecture right for you?
Hybrid WANs are growing in popularity. But what are the questions you should ask before deploying a hybrid WAN architecture?

What do I need to do to create successful hybrid WANs?
As the market for hybrid network services booms, the challenge of creating successful hybrid WANs grows.

SD-WAN makes secure networks possible in hybrid WANs
Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) is helping enterprises maintain secure networks while embracing hybrid WAN architectures at the branch.

Quiz Yourself

This authentication credential uses biometric data.
a. What is a possession factor?
b. What is an inherence factor?
Answer

 

Stay In Touch
For feedback about any of our definitions or to suggest a new definition, please contact me at: mrouse@techtarget.com

 

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