26 Best SD-WAN Solutions Reviewed in 2025
Best SD-WAN Solutions Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best SD-WAN solutions:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Navigating network complexities can be a headache for your team. SD-WAN solutions help by simplifying management and enhancing connectivity. They tackle challenges like network inefficiencies and security concerns, making your job easier.
I've spent years testing and reviewing software, and I'm here to share what I've found about the best SD-WAN options. My goal is to give you an unbiased view so you can make informed decisions.
In this article, I'll cover top picks, highlighting their unique features and potential drawbacks. You'll get a clear picture of what each solution offers, helping you find the right fit for your needs.
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Best SD-WAN Solutions Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top SD-WAN solutions selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for zero trust access control | 30-day free trial | From $200/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for denied access | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for predictive analytics | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for AI-native architecture | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for multi-gigabit bandwidth | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for edge-to-cloud security | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for integrated security | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for secure cloud management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for hybrid network services | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for mobile and IoT connectivity | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website |
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Best SD-WAN Solution Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best SD-WAN solutions that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Portnox is a cloud-native SD WAN solution designed for businesses seeking secure network access. It primarily serves IT teams looking to enhance security and manage network connections effectively.
Why I picked Portnox: It features passwordless authentication, risk posture assessment, and compliance enforcement. These features directly relate to its USP of zero trust access control, making it a solid choice for organizations transitioning from MPLS to SD WAN. Portnox also supports various SD WAN architectures, providing flexibility and security.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include passwordless authentication, which simplifies user access while maintaining security. Risk posture assessment evaluates devices to ensure they comply with security policies. Compliance enforcement helps your team adhere to regulatory requirements without extra hassle.
Integrations include popular tools like Microsoft Active Directory, Okta, Google Workspace, Cisco ISE, RADIUS, Azure AD, and VPNs like Fortinet, Palo Alto Networks, and Check Point, and Juniper.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compliance enforcement tools
- Supports zero trust security
- Passwordless authentication
Cons:
- Potential vendor lock-in
- Complex deployment process
Lumen SD-WAN is designed for enterprises needing centralized management of wide area networks. It serves IT teams looking to connect branch and remote users efficiently.
Why I picked Lumen SD-WAN: It offers a centralized dashboard for managing network traffic, which enhances efficiency. It features hybrid connectivity options like MPLS, broadband, and Wi-Fi. These options relate to its USP of denied access, ensuring only authorized users connect to the network. Lumen SD-WAN also provides robust security features to protect data across multiple locations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include centralized management, which allows your team to control network traffic from one place. Hybrid connectivity supports various types of internet connections, enhancing flexibility. Built-in security features protect your data across all connections.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, VMware, Oracle, IBM Cloud, Zscaler, and Check Point.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in security features
- Centralized network management
- Supports hybrid connectivity
Cons:
- High cost for small businesses
- Potential latency issues
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN is a networking solution tailored for large enterprises that need efficient and secure network management. It helps IT teams optimize network performance and ensure secure connectivity across multiple sites.
Why I picked Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN: It offers predictive analytics that help your team anticipate network issues before they occur. The tool includes advanced monitoring and reporting features that provide insights into network performance. These features align with its USP of predictive analytics, allowing for proactive network management. Additionally, it supports a variety of connection types, enhancing your network's flexibility.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced monitoring, which gives your team real-time insights into network performance. Reporting tools provide detailed analytics, helping you make informed decisions. The solution also supports various connection types, boosting network flexibility.
Integrations include Cisco Umbrella, Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Meraki, Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, ServiceNow, Splunk, Palo Alto Networks, and Zscaler.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports multiple connection types
- Advanced monitoring tools
- Predictive analytics capabilities
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Requires advanced technical skills
Juniper SD-WAN is a networking solution that caters to enterprises seeking efficient and intelligent network management. It serves IT teams by optimizing network performance and ensuring secure connectivity across multiple locations.
Why I picked Juniper SD-WAN: It integrates AI-native architecture to enhance network operations and performance. It offers automated network configuration, which reduces manual intervention and potential errors. The AI-driven insights help your team make data-informed decisions, directly tying into the USP of AI-native architecture. Additionally, it supports flexible deployment options, providing adaptability to changing network needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated network configuration that minimizes manual tasks. AI-driven insights give your team valuable data to optimize network performance. Flexible deployment options allow your network to adapt to various environments.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, ServiceNow, Splunk, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, Zscaler, Check Point, and IBM Cloud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible deployment options
- AI-driven insights
- Automated network configuration
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Requires technical expertise
FatPipe Networks SD-WAN is a networking solution aimed at enterprises requiring high bandwidth and reliable connectivity. It serves IT teams by enhancing network performance and ensuring secure data transmission across multiple sites.
Why I picked FatPipe Networks SD-WAN: It provides multi-gigabit bandwidth, supporting high-speed data transfer and connectivity. It offers features like dynamic load balancing, which optimizes traffic across multiple links. This functionality is crucial for maintaining high performance in demanding environments. Additionally, the solution includes VPN bonding, improving data security and reliability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include dynamic load balancing, which helps manage traffic across your network. VPN bonding enhances security by combining multiple VPN connections. The solution also supports high-speed data transfer, crucial for bandwidth-intensive applications.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, VMware, Check Point, Fortinet, Zscaler, and IBM Cloud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Dynamic load balancing
- Supports high-speed data transfer
- VPN bonding for security
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Complex setup process
Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN is a solution designed for organizations needing secure and efficient network connectivity. It serves IT teams aiming to connect branch offices and remote users securely to cloud applications.
Why I picked Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN: It emphasizes edge-to-cloud security, ensuring data protection from the branch to the cloud. The tool includes features like dynamic path control, which optimizes traffic routing for better performance. Integrated security measures protect your network from potential threats. These features highlight its focus on providing secure, optimized connectivity for modern network environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include dynamic path control, which helps optimize your network traffic. Integrated security measures bolster network protection against threats. Cloud intelligence features enhance connectivity to cloud applications, supporting efficient data flow.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, Palo Alto Networks, Zscaler, Check Point, Fortinet, Cisco, Splunk, and ServiceNow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated security measures
- Dynamic path control
- Emphasizes edge-to-cloud security
Cons:
- Potential compatibility issues
- High cost for small businesses
FortiGate SD-WAN is a networking solution tailored for businesses that prioritize secure and efficient connectivity. It serves IT teams by optimizing network performance while ensuring robust security measures.
Why I picked FortiGate SD-WAN: It offers integrated security features that protect your network across all connections. The tool includes advanced firewall capabilities, which safeguard against potential threats. This focus on security is key to its USP of integrated security. Additionally, it provides intelligent path control, enhancing network efficiency and reliability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced firewall capabilities, which help protect your network from threats. Intelligent path control optimizes traffic routing, improving performance and reliability. The solution also supports application visibility, giving your team insights into network usage.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, Cisco, VMware, Palo Alto Networks, Check Point, Zscaler, Splunk, and ServiceNow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intelligent path control
- Integrated security features
- Advanced firewall capabilities
Cons:
- Potential compatibility issues
- Limited customization options
Versa Networks SD-WAN is a software solution crafted for enterprises seeking secure and efficient network management. It helps IT teams by optimizing connectivity and ensuring data security across cloud environments.
Why I picked Versa Networks SD-WAN: The tool provides secure cloud management, a key feature for businesses using cloud services. It includes advanced security protocols to protect your data. This focus on security aligns with its USP of secure cloud management. Additionally, it offers detailed traffic analysis, helping your team make informed decisions about network usage.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced security protocols that protect your data across the network. Detailed traffic analysis provides insights into network performance and usage. The solution also supports dynamic path selection, optimizing connectivity for your team.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, Zscaler, Check Point, Fortinet, VMware, and ServiceNow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed traffic analysis
- Secure cloud management
- Advanced security protocols
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Complex initial setup
Kyndryl offers a hybrid SD-WAN solution designed for enterprises that need versatile network management. It helps IT teams by providing secure, flexible connectivity and supporting diverse network environments.
Why I picked Kyndryl: It excels in offering hybrid network services, allowing integration of traditional WAN with modern SD-WAN capabilities. It provides features like centralized network management, which simplifies operations for your team. The hybrid approach ensures you can leverage existing infrastructure while adopting new technologies. Kyndryl's focus on security and adaptability makes it a strong option for complex network needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include centralized network management, which helps your team oversee all network operations from a single interface. The hybrid approach allows you to integrate traditional and modern network technologies. Enhanced security features protect data across diverse network environments.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, AWS, Cisco, VMware, IBM Cloud, Palo Alto Networks, Google Cloud, Fortinet, Zscaler, and Check Point.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports diverse network environments
- Hybrid network capabilities
- Centralized management interface
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Requires technical expertise
Cradlepoint SD-WAN is a networking solution designed to enhance connectivity and performance for organizations utilizing diverse WAN connections. It caters to businesses aiming to improve application reliability and network management across various environments. The solution facilitates efficient traffic control and seamless integration of multiple connection types.
Why I picked Cradlepoint SD-WAN: Managing your network becomes more straightforward with Cradlepoint's cellular-optimized SD-WAN capabilities. You can set up application-based policies that automatically steer traffic across LTE, 5G, wired connections, and Wi-Fi as WAN, ensuring optimal performance. The system intelligently assesses the health of each WAN link, automatically failing over during outages or degraded conditions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include application-based traffic steering, which directs data flows based on latency, jitter, loss, and available bandwidth. The solution also offers flow duplication, sending critical application traffic simultaneously across multiple WAN links to maintain reliability during network issues.
Integrations include Ericsson NetCloud Manager, which provides centralized network management, and various Cradlepoint wireless edge routers and adapters. These integrations enable cohesive control and monitoring of your network infrastructure.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible deployment options
- Scalable to accommodate business growth
- Customizable to meet specific needs
Cons:
- Rigid deployment options
- Limited scalability for larger enterprises
Other SD-WAN Solutions
Here are some additional SD-WAN solutions options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Symantec SSL Visibility
For encrypted traffic management
- Oracle SD-WAN
For network reliability and uptime
- Cato SASE Cloud
For secure access service edge features
- Peplink SD-WAN
For multi-WAN link load balancing
- VeloCloud
For cloud-delivered networking
- Nuage Networks
For multi-cloud environments
- Harmony Connect
For secure access service edge
- Citrix SD-WAN
For application-aware routing
- Telia
Good for tailored business connectivity
- Aryaka SmartServices SD-WAN
For managed WAN services
SD-WAN Solution Selection Criteria
When selecting the best SD-WAN solutions to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like network reliability and security concerns. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Enhance network performance
- Provide secure connectivity
- Support multiple connection types
- Offer centralized management
- Enable real-time traffic monitoring
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- AI-driven insights
- Zero trust security
- Integrated threat protection
- Dynamic path selection
- Multi-cloud support
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Customizable dashboards
- Clear visualizations
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Onboarding templates
- Responsive chatbots
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Quick response times
- Knowledgeable support staff
- Comprehensive help documentation
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Transparent pricing models
- Features included in basic plans
- Cost relative to benefits
- Availability of discounts or promotions
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on performance
- Comments on support quality
- User experience insights
- Frequency of updates or improvements
How to Choose SD-WAN Solution
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Ensure the solution can grow with your business. Look for options that support expanding network needs and can handle increased traffic without degrading performance. |
| Integrations | Check compatibility with your existing tools. The solution should seamlessly connect with your current infrastructure, including cloud services and network devices. |
| Customizability | Look for solutions that allow you to tailor features to your needs. Custom dashboards and reporting can help your team get the most out of the tool. |
| Ease of Use | Make sure the interface is intuitive for your team. A user-friendly design reduces the learning curve and helps in day-to-day management. |
| Budget | Consider the total cost of ownership, not just upfront costs. Look for transparent pricing and evaluate how features align with your budget. |
| Security Safeguards | Ensure robust security measures are in place. The solution should offer encryption, threat detection, and compliance with security standards to protect your data. |
| Performance | Evaluate how the solution enhances network performance. Look for features like dynamic path selection and traffic optimization to maintain high-speed connectivity. |
| Support | Assess the quality of customer support. Reliable support services are crucial for troubleshooting and maintaining network health. |
Trends in SD-WAN Solution
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different SD-WAN solution vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Driven Analytics: Vendors are adding AI to provide predictive insights and automate network management. This helps your team anticipate issues before they occur, improving reliability. Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN is using AI to enhance its analytics capabilities.
- Zero Trust Architecture: Security is shifting towards a zero trust model, ensuring every connection is verified before access is granted. This approach limits potential breaches. Solutions like Portnox are leading in this area with their zero-trust features.
- 5G Integration: As 5G networks expand, SD-WAN solutions are adapting to leverage increased bandwidth and lower latency. This is crucial for businesses needing fast, reliable connectivity. VeloCloud is incorporating 5G to enhance network performance.
- Cloud-Native Deployments: More solutions are being designed to operate entirely in the cloud, offering flexibility and scalability. This trend supports remote work and global operations. Cato Networks is a prime example of a cloud-native SD WAN.
- Enhanced Security Features: With cyber threats on the rise, vendors are focusing on advanced security features like encryption and threat detection. FortiGate SD-WAN offers integrated security to protect against evolving threats.
What Are SD-WAN Solutions?
SD-WAN solutions are tools designed to simplify and optimize the management of wide-area networks. IT professionals and network administrators typically use these tools to enhance connectivity and security across multiple locations. Features like AI-driven analytics, zero trust architecture, and 5G integration help with predicting issues, securing connections, and improving network performance. Overall, these tools provide businesses with reliable, secure, and efficient network management.
Features of SD-WAN Solutions
When selecting SD-WAN solutions, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- AI-driven analytics: Provides predictive insights to anticipate network issues, improving reliability and performance.
- Zero trust security: Verifies every connection before access is granted, enhancing network security.
- 5G integration: Leverages increased bandwidth and lower latency for faster, more reliable connectivity.
- Cloud-native deployments: Offers flexibility and scalability, supporting remote work and global operations.
- Dynamic path selection: Optimizes traffic routing for better network performance and efficiency.
- End-to-end encryption: Secures data across the network, protecting sensitive information from threats.
- Centralized management: Allows for easy oversight and control of network operations from a single interface.
- Real-time traffic monitoring: Provides insights into network usage and performance, aiding in informed decision-making.
- Application visibility: Helps in identifying and managing network traffic related to specific applications.
- Integrated threat protection: Detects and mitigates potential security threats to safeguard network integrity.
Benefits of SD-WAN Solutions
Implementing SD-WAN solutions provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Enhanced connectivity: By leveraging 5G integration and dynamic path selection, you get faster and more reliable network connections.
- Improved security: Zero trust security and end-to-end encryption safeguard your data and network.
- Scalability: Cloud-native deployments allow your network to grow as your business expands, supporting remote work and global operations.
- Cost savings: Optimized traffic routing and centralized management reduce operational costs by improving network efficiency.
- Better performance insights: Real-time traffic monitoring and AI-driven analytics provide valuable insights for optimizing network performance.
- Simplified management: Centralized management tools make it easier for your team to oversee and control network operations.
- Application efficiency: Application visibility helps manage and prioritize network traffic, ensuring critical applications perform optimally.
Costs and Pricing of SD-WAN Solutions
Selecting SD-WAN solutions requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in SD-WAN solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for SD-WAN Solutions
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic connectivity, limited security features, and minimal support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Enhanced connectivity, basic analytics, and standard customer support. |
| Business Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Advanced analytics, centralized management, and standard security features. |
| Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/user/month | Full security suite, AI-driven insights, and 24/7 premium support. |
SD-WAN Solutions (FAQs)
Here are some answers to common questions about SD WAN solutions:
What are two major weaknesses of SD-WAN?
SD-WAN can have limited bandwidth and lack layer 2 support, which might affect certain network functions. It often requires purchasing additional solutions or using third-party controllers to fill gaps. Single vendor reliance can also be a downside, as it may limit flexibility.
Which three problems are companies trying to solve with SD-WAN?
Companies use SD-WAN to tackle high costs of traditional MPLS networks, improve network performance, and enhance security across distributed infrastructures. It helps in providing better user experiences and increasing visibility into network activities.
What are three main components of SD-WAN?
The three main components are the SD-WAN edge, the controller, and the orchestrator. The edge handles data forwarding, the controller manages policies, and the orchestrator oversees the entire network. Together, they ensure efficient network management.
How does SD-WAN improve network performance?
SD-WAN optimizes data routing using dynamic path selection, which chooses the best path for data. This reduces latency and improves application performance. It also uses real-time analytics to adjust to network conditions quickly.
Can SD-WAN enhance security?
Yes, SD-WAN enhances security by implementing features like zero trust architecture and end-to-end encryption. These measures ensure that only authenticated users access the network, and data is protected during transmission.
What role does AI play in SD-WAN?
AI in SD-WAN provides predictive analytics and automates network management. It helps in anticipating potential issues before they affect the network, allowing for proactive management and improving reliability. AI-driven insights also aid in optimizing performance.
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