July 2019| | 19Enterprise networking is at a turning point. After 20 years of relative stability, we're moving to a new way of networking, away from the static infrastructure of the past to a more agile and hybrid model that can better support the challenges of the digital future. The real question now for CIOs is not if or even when you should start to develop a more flexible, dynamic network. The real question is how.It's not a time for quick fire answers or leaps of faith: enterprises need clear guidance and practical support as they evolve their networks.Two thirds of CIOs report their infrastructure is struggling to support the rapid adoption of digital technologies . They'reunder pressure to make the most of the cloud and give users faster access to data and applications. To satisfy the relentless demand for more bandwidth from the explosion in digital devices and services. To do all of this without compromising security. Many businesses are already embracing SD-WAN and network function virtualisation. No-one wants to be left behind. But it's important not to buy the vision without fully considering the consequences. While SD-WAN and NFV are part of the solution the truth is that networking is going to get more complicated than ever. To move forward with confidence you need to answer three key questions:1. How do you decide when's the right time to move your network forward? 2. How do you manage the transformation? 3. How do you create a secure platform from as your network is constantly evolving?The never-ending taskAccept that your network will never be finished. It will always be work in progress as your business moves forward and technology advances. As a first step, in the words of industry analysts Ovum "you have to pin down theproblems you want SD-WAN to solve". It might take some detective work but you'll need to develop a clear picture ofwhat's actually happening on your network. What applications or devices are using bandwidth? Where do you have performance issues? What's priority traffic and what can use local IP breakouts? Armed with real life insight into your network behaviour, you'll be in a much better position to identify where SD-WAN and related solutions can help. Work with your network provider on a corresponding roadmap for its introduction and you'll increase your chances of a successful transition.CXO INSIGHTSBy Adrian Comley, General Manager, Dynamic Network Services, BTSD-WAN AND THE NETWORK OF THE FUTURE: HOW TO MOVE FORWARD WITH CONFIDENCEAdrian Comley
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