t cht lk this influx of IoT devices . However , as connectivity increases , so too does the amount of data that must be processed , both in real-time and close to the source .
Facilitating huge volumes of data at high speeds is a key function and much promised benefit of 5G . Yet despite providing higher bandwidth to operations , 5G is limited in range . It is expected that 5G networks will be powered by hundreds of thousands of small cells . However , the denser the network of cells , the more difficult they become to manage , operate and maintain , therefore the crux of the issue becomes not only the optimisation of these networks , but also the automation .
SD-WAN : The enabler
Connection and integration across the relevant compute Edges is integral to any 5G operation . SD-WAN platforms can help service providers by allowing for automation and aiding in the optimisation of traffic and management of 5G cells . Unlike a traditional routercentric WAN architecture , a Software-Defined Wide Area Network ( SD-WAN ) is designed to support applications in on-premises data centres , public or private clouds , and SaaS services , such as Microsoft 365 , Dropbox and Workday . At its core , an SD-WAN is a virtual WAN architecture that aims to securely connect users to applications . It achieves this by enabling organisations to leverage a combination of transport services , such as MLPS , LTE , and broadband Internet services .
As Digital Transformation tightens its grip on industry , many enterprises are making use of the cloud and subscribing to Software-as-a-Service ( Saas ), rendering the traditional WAN increasingly less fit for purpose . SD-WAN identifies applications and provides
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