The modern retail store is a marvel of technology, equipped with a variety of networked devices, from surveillance cameras to point-of-sale systems and edge computing devices. In this ever-evolving retail landscape, technology is the key, and one of the most critical components is Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN).
Here are four reasons why SD-WAN is an essential solution for modern retail stores:
- Streamlined Network Management
SD-WAN offers a centralised hub for all data and network resources that retailers use daily. Modern SD-WAN interfaces make it easy to monitor performance and troubleshoot issues, simplifying network management and reducing maintenance time for retailers.
- Enhanced Network Performance
SD-WAN prevents network congestion by managing traffic centrally. By routing data over the most efficient path, retailers can scale bandwidth up or down on short notice, even distributing bandwidth to meet flash conditions or support new applications. SD-WAN also helps prevent network delays and crashes, ensuring a seamless and responsive experience for both customers and employees.
- Strengthened Network Security
SD-WAN offers enhanced network security through monitoring and analytical capabilities that provide granular visibility into network traffic. This is a crucial feature, as it provides retailers with a protective layer in their network, especially with the growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices expanding the network edge and attack surface. SD-WAN complements secure access service edge (SASE) well, offering efficient traffic routing capabilities and robust security features. The result is a comprehensive networking solution with reduced vulnerabilities.
- Facilitates Hybrid Cloud Success
SD-WAN integrates seamlessly with the hybrid cloud, making it particularly advantageous as retailers increasingly adopt cloud-based applications and services. Hybrid cloud and multi-cloud services are the top priority for retail companies. SD-WAN gives administrators greater control over bandwidth, traffic flows, and data interactions, allowing IT teams to automate key processes, and enabling greater speed, flexibility, and enhanced performance.
SD-WAN allows organisations to adapt quickly to changes in their hybrid cloud infrastructure. As workloads move, businesses can quickly gain insight into what’s going on in their environment, understand what’s moving, and adapt their policy. SD-WAN also lets IT teams see traffic between the retailer’s network and the cloud at a granular level, providing more data on latency and specific transports so that workflows can be adjusted for better efficiency.
Conclusion
Many companies struggle with siloed security tools, cloud migration, and data democratisation—all of which add additional complexity to their already demanding data security and compliance workflows. Traditional security platforms also tend to be overwhelmed by data volume, often resulting in slow reporting and limited data retention.
Utilising one single tool that can help find and protect data across the hybrid cloud is extremely important, especially during a time when data breaches are more prevalent and costly than ever.
About EKTECH
EKTECH provides cutting-edge SD-WAN solutions that empower businesses, including modern retailers, to optimise their network performance, enhance security, and facilitate hybrid cloud success. With our innovative SD-WAN technology, we enable organisations to streamline operations, reduce maintenance time, and ensure seamless connectivity across multiple locations.
Contact EKTECH today to learn how our SD-WAN solutions can transform your retail operations.
