9December, 2020solutions vary from vendor to vendor. For instance, OTP network providers provide security at the application layer because they don't own the underlying network, so the data they handle can become more vulnerable when crossing network boundaries.That's because elements of the underlying networks are managed by multiple service providers that don't always communicate or collaborate with each other. In contrast, a provider that owns the underlying network infrastructure can design a secure network to meet enterprise needs.Smart Traffic BalancingTo get the most out of their SDN investments, enterprises should select a provider that offers MPLS for critical applications and locations and simply supplement with broadband for less critical traffic. MPLS is designed with the built-in security and scalability that modern businesses demand. Network providers that own the underlying network can deliver strong protection against increasingly common types of cyber attacks--DDoS (distributed denial of service), ransomware and zero-day threats. Today's enterprises also need smart networks that prioritize traffic based on the applications they use, both at the point of entry and exit from the network. Intelligent networks prioritize each application and allocate the proper amount of bandwidth. For instance, the network distinguishes between audio and video applications that require higher priority from casual internet browsing.This refined approach to traffic balancing isn't available through public internet connections, but rather by working with a provider that offers private MPLS connections and monitors those connections around the clock to maintain performance, scalability and security.MPLS SecurityAn MPLS provider, that owns the underlying network, delivers strong security because of how the network is designed. Through private connections, the provider has the ability to separate IP addresses from routers and hide the internal structure of the core network from the outside. OTP vendors cannot do this.In addition, MPLS providers should be able to deliver additional controls customized to an organization's specific needs. Customized controls can typically support an organization's compliance with industry-specific regulations or standards such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) for healthcare and PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) for retailers and other businesses that process credit card information.Best of Both WorldsSDN is about to transform the way networks are managed, bringing much-needed flexibility and scalability to enterprises to dial services up and down as needed. But rather than displace MPLS networks, in many cases SDN will require MPLS for security and traffic management.Enterprises looking to modernize their network with SDN will get the best results by finding a provider delivering the best of both worlds--SDN controls combined with MPLS capabilities. SDN is about to transform the way networks are managed, bringing much-needed flexibility and scalability to enterprises to dial services up and down as neededVickie Lonker
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