In the past few years, SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Networking) has been seen as the answer for IT teams needing secure, resilient, and efficient networks to support everything from remote work to cloud-based applications. But as Gartner points out, SD-WAN’s relevance is shifting as we head into 2025, especially with SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) frameworks gaining traction. For many IT leaders, it’s time to reevaluate whether SD-WAN alone is still the right solution—or if a more integrated approach is needed to meet both network and security needs in a world that demands flexibility and speed.
The Evolution of Network Needs
Today’s IT environment demands flexibility. Remote work, IoT devices, and cloud services are more than trends—they’re core parts of modern networks. But with this shift comes a more complex network footprint that requires advanced solutions for speed, security, and adaptability.
- Traditional WAN can’t keep up with the need for dynamic response.
- SD-WAN was an improvement, offering flexibility in traffic routing and application prioritization.
Yet, SD-WAN alone often lacks security—a critical element in today’s environment. While SD-WAN provides agility, it generally requires additional solutions to cover the security gaps.
The Rise of SASE as an Integrated Solution
SASE is now emerging as the new standard. By combining SD-WAN capabilities with integrated security, SASE can address:
- Network agility
- Robust security
- Simplified management
According to Gartner, companies adopting a SASE model report:
- 40% faster access to cloud applications
- Improved security across distributed environments
- Simplified network management for leaner IT teams
SASE builds on the flexibility SD-WAN provides while adding necessary security, making it a better choice for organizations needing a robust, all-in-one solution.
Where SD-WAN Excels—and Where It May Fall Short
For IT teams managing complex, multi-location networks, SD-WAN remains powerful. It’s an excellent choice for organizations with a strong need for application prioritization and optimized network performance.
Benefits of SD-WAN:
- Increased network efficiency, especially for remote and hybrid work.
- Dynamic routing that optimizes performance for different applications.
- Flexibility to support multiple locations and cloud resources.
Limitations of SD-WAN:
- Lacks integrated, end-to-end security features.
- Often needs supplemental solutions for full protection.
- May not be compliant enough for highly regulated industries like finance or healthcare.
Many companies find SD-WAN’s lack of built-in security a drawback, especially in sectors where safeguarding data is paramount. For these organizations, integrating SD-WAN with SASE can fill in the gaps, delivering a secure, agile network that can keep up with compliance demands.
When Does It Make Sense to Keep or Upgrade SD-WAN?
Whether to keep, upgrade, or replace SD-WAN depends on your organization’s goals and security needs. Here’s a quick guide:
- Keep SD-WAN if: It meets your current performance needs, and security is managed adequately with other solutions.
- Upgrade with SASE if: Your business is growing rapidly, adopting more cloud applications, or operating a large number of remote/hybrid employees.
A hybrid approach, where SD-WAN is integrated with SASE, can help organizations prepare for future challenges while maximizing existing investments in SD-WAN.
Amanda’s Take: Is It Time to Rethink SD-WAN?
At COMtuity, we’ve been in the trenches with our clients, helping them navigate the complexities of network architecture. SD-WAN was a game-changer for many organizations, but as the demands on IT continue to grow, a layered approach combining SD-WAN with SASE might be what’s next. Here’s why:
- Today’s networks must go beyond performance—they need resilience, flexibility, and built-in security.
- Our expertise lets IT teams focus on strategy by taking on vendor coordination, contract management, and the “not fun stuff” of IT, which saves time and resources.
COMtuity is here to help your team manage the constant pressure of network performance, security, and vendor relationships. We can evaluate if SD-WAN alone is the best fit, or if moving toward SASE will provide long-term value and reliability.
Let’s talk about your goals for 2025. Schedule time with COMtuity to explore how we can make it a great year for your IT team and set your network up for lasting success.
