Versa Networks Recognized for NFV-based Approach to SD-WAN
It was announced this week that Frost & Sullivan has awarded Versa Networks for its network function virtualization (NFV)-based approach to SD-WAN. The solution is unique in that it addresses market needs in a flexible and cost-efficient manner. In order to do this, it combines a large set of networking and security virtual network functions (VNFs) with a scalable, multi-tenant platform, commodity hardware and Big Data analytics. In recognition of this unique yet effective approach, Versa Networks has received the 2016 United States Frost & Sullivan Entrepreneurial Company of the Year Award.
According to Frost & Sullivan Industry Director, Roopa Honnachari, “The Versa SD-WAN is differentiated because it is built on a truly software-defined, NFV-based architecture…Versa's solution eliminates proprietary hardware, is fully multi-tenant and programmable, and includes a broad set of virtualized network and security functions to enable a secure SD-WAN deployment without multi-vendor complexity.”
Aside from the fact that the NFV approach is unique in of itself, their SD-WAN solution also has three important components:
- Versa FlexVNF: This is the core of Versa VNF solutions. It is made up of various virtualized network and security functions with carrier-grade multi-tenancy, programmability, service chaining, service elasticity and cost-effective deployment options.
- Versa Director: The single point of centralized control and management for connectivity and services.
- Versa Analytics: A real time analytics engine that helps with control, visibility, predictability and adaptability of networks
Not only that, but Versa's software-defined security (SD-Security) capabilities offer customers the ability to set up fully service-chained security in two ways. First, they can position is as an integrated software function on the branch site customer premises equipment (CPE). Or, they can choose to go off-premises and embrace the cloud environment. Second, it can be deployed in the network service provider’s (NSP’s) cloud—PoP, CO or data center. The solution also supports full-blown routing and is both application- and network-aware. This means that it can be used with or instead of a traditional router.
This solution has the potential to be incredibly helpful, according to Honnachari, who said, “As WAN management is a complex process, it requires enterprises to have expert network managers to run and operate a global WAN. The process can be even more daunting when it involves multiple transport and access providers across the globe.”
She continued, “This issue can be alleviated by NSP-managed SD-WAN services, as NSPs have the skill and technology to integrate disparate operations and management systems across various access providers.”
Edited by Maurice Nagle
