Capability scores for SD-WAN vendors are driven by their ability to provide reliable connectivity, robust security, and comprehensive management features. High capability scores reflect strong performance in areas like application-aware routing, link bonding, centralized management, and zero-touch provisioning.
Innovation scores are earned by vendors that demonstrate leadership in emerging areas like AIOps, tunnel-free technology, native SASE integration, and edge-to-cloud insights. Vendors who unify networking and security in a single software instance receive higher marks.Top-ranked SD-WAN companies typically demonstrate a unified approach, avoiding fragmented architectures that rely on disparate acquired products.
They offer a single software instance, a single management console, and a clear vision for the convergence of networking and security. Vendors can improve their ranking by investing in AIOps capabilities, tunnel-free technology, and native SASE integration. A clear roadmap for autonomous networking and a robust security pedigree are also essential for achieving a top ranking.
