Building a resilient, scalable cloud network

Setting up reliable network connectivity is always challenging for businesses of all sizes, but these days, there are more considerations than ever.

Distributed global operations, teams working remotely, and disrupted global economics all create turbulence for enterprises looking to simplify global communications.

For many, the answer lies in the cloud. Cloud-based networks simplify enterprise networking in many ways:

• They remove the need for maintaining complex network hardware
• They reduce the cost of provisioning additional bolt-on services
• They open the door for easily scalable operations without creating more connectivity headaches.

But although cloud-based networks make communications more streamlined once in place, they can be complicated to set up. Because of the complex technologies involved in cloud networks, enterprises should seek out an experienced managed service provider (MSP) to ensure proper implementation.

This article will explain how cloud-based networks are structured and how your business can make the shift towards seamless, flexible cloud connectivity.

Cloud-based networks are supported by, and interact with, physical network infrastructure, but they also require a virtual architecture of network functions (Network Functions Virtualisation, NFV) to transmit data securely through the cloud.

This architecture utilises Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) such as routers, firewalls and network optimisation services that facilitate seamless communication between physical network infrastructure and cloud network components.

VNFs can also be consolidated into universal Customer Premises Equipment (uCPE), an on-site physical equipment that allows businesses to provision network services on-demand and over-the-air (OTA) to supplement their cloud network.

A cloud based network comprises a suite of services - global internet, public and private cloud connections, management platforms, and software-defined wide-area networks (SD-WANs).

Of these constituent parts, the SD-WAN is most important when building a resilient, global network, delivering several capabilities and functions that enable rapid network expansion.

Because of the myriad services and network functions available with cloud networking, managing these networks can be challenging if not set up correctly.

Like all technology, cloud networks can also face various issues, obstacles, and regulatory requirements that can cause problems for a business without network experience:

• What should you do if current network agreements do not cover new locations?
• How do you know if cutting edge network technology will be effective, or just expensive?
• What if a new cybersecurity threat emerges that targets weak points in your network?

An experienced, international managed service provider (MSP) can help enterprises overcome these challenges at every stage:

• MSPs provide a multitude of international service level agreements (SLAs) with network operators and have the authority to open new ones as needed
• They offer expert advice on the best network technologies for your needs
• They enable access to the highest standards of cutting-edge network security

By managing and monitoring your network on your behalf, MSPs can address new issues without delay. Businesses can thus enjoy greater peace of mind, freeing them up to remain agile in a fast-paced business climate and focus on their operations without the additional burden of managing complex network infrastructure.

Aside from all the benefits of having a properly implemented and managed cloud network, partnering with an international MSP provides a reliable enterprise network solution that is inherently scalable and doesn’t require additional in-house expertise.

Speak to us today about how Singtel can build and manage a resilient cloud network for your enterprise.