// EXPERT PROFILE //
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RELIABLE AND FLEXIBLE
NETWORKS ARE CRITICAL TO ENSURING ONGOING BUSINESS
CONTINUITY AMID
CONSTANTLY CHANGING
MARKET CONDITIONS . networks on which they are running . They need to ensure that their network continues to support operations , even as technology continues to evolve .
Building a next-generation network
It ’ s one thing to talk about the benefits of a next-generation , SD-WAN-based corporate network , but it is something else entirely to put one into place .
There are six key steps a business needs to follow to achieve the goal of having a flexible , resilient and scalable network infrastructure . These steps are :
1
Evaluate existing network infrastructure : Undertake a thorough review of the networking equipment and services currently being used across your organisation . Consider all ongoing costs , such as capital maintenance and equipment upgrades and the skills that are required to keep things operational . Compare this with the potential reduction in business uncertainty , improved reliability and strategic flexibility that would be gained by shifting day-to-day connectivity to a third-party service provider .
2 5
Pinpoint weaknesses or performance problems : Many legacy networks tend to be riddled with inefficiencies , so it is unlikely to take long to identify potential areas for improvement . Speak with network managers , end-users and technical architects to better understand what needs to be fixed and how a modern , cloud-based network architecture could help .
3
Expand network visibility and analytics capabilities : Building a consistent , scalable and responsive multi-cloud network can significantly improve network resilience . However , it ’ s also important to ensure that you have the right tools to monitor and analyse ongoing performance . This will allow you to effectively evaluate adherence to business objectives and SLAs .
4
Address security considerations : In this era of extensive remote working , expanding network reach , changing usage models and new application architectures have created new security vulnerabilities that must be proactively addressed . It ’ s important to ensure your network incorporates robust , AI-assisted security controls that span threat detection , authentication and vulnerability scanning across your multicloud environment .
Extend policy-based network automation : Effective network automation is vital when building networks that are more responsive and aligned with the changing dynamics of today ’ s business world . Ensure you leverage automation , where possible , so that your IT team can spend less time thinking about the network and more time on improving the business .
6
Consult a strategic technology partner : Find an IT partner who understands contemporary multi-cloud environments and the impact they are having on network architectures . Their experience and advice will be invaluable .
Reliable and flexible networks are critical to ensuring ongoing Business Continuity amid constantly changing market conditions . By embracing SD-WAN technology and cloudbased resources , businesses can ensure they are best placed to deal with any challenges that lie ahead . �
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