The Top 5 SD-WAN Providers Compared: Features, Pricing, and Performance

Introduction

Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) has become a critical technology for modern enterprises, offering enhanced performance, flexibility, and cost savings compared to traditional WAN architectures.

With numerous vendors offering SD-WAN solutions, selecting the right provider can be challenging. In this article, we compare the top five SD-WAN providers, Cisco Viptela, Fortinet, VMware, Palo Alto Networks, and Aryaka across key criteria such as features, pricing, and performance.

1. Cisco Viptela

Overview:

Cisco Viptela is a leading SD-WAN solution designed for large enterprises that require advanced routing, security, and cloud integration.

Key Features:

• Cloud-first architecture with support for hybrid and multi-cloud environments

• Strong integration with Cisco security products (Umbrella, Duo, Talos)

• Advanced application-aware routing and performance optimization

• Scalable for large enterprise networks

Pricing:

• Licensing follows Cisco’s subscription-based model, with tiered pricing based on features and number of sites.

• Estimated cost: £50-£200 per site/month (varies based on features and scale).

Performance:

• Excellent scalability and performance for global enterprises

• Tight integration with Cisco’s security and networking stack

• Higher learning curve due to complex configuration options

2. Fortinet Secure SD-WAN

Overview:

Fortinet Secure SD-WAN is known for its built-in security and cost-effective performance, making it ideal for businesses prioritizing cybersecurity.

Key Features:

• Native integration with Fortinet's security suite, including NGFW and threat intelligence

• High-performance routing and application optimization

• Zero-touch deployment and centralized management via FortiManager

Pricing:

• One of the most cost-effective SD-WAN solutions

• Pricing starts at around £30-£100 per site/month

Performance:

• Strong security features and deep packet inspection capabilities

• Optimized for security-conscious enterprises

• Slightly limited in third-party integrations compared to Cisco and VMware

3. VMware SD-WAN (Velocloud)

Overview:

VMware SD-WAN, formerly known as Velocloud, is a cloud-first SD-WAN solution that excels in cloud and SaaS application performance optimization.

Key Features:

• Dynamic Multipath Optimisation (DMPO) for real-time traffic adjustments

• Seamless integration with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud

• Strong support for remote workforces and branch connectivity

• AI-driven analytics for enhanced network insights

Pricing:

• Typically ranges from £50-£150 per site/month, depending on features and support level

Performance:

• One of the best SD-WAN solutions for cloud and SaaS optimisation

• Strong AI-driven traffic management capabilities

• Requires VMware ecosystem familiarity for full benefits

4. Palo Alto Networks Prisma SD-WAN

Overview:

Formerly CloudGenix, Prisma SD-WAN by Palo Alto Networks offers strong security and automation capabilities, making it a great fit for enterprises with security concerns.

Key Features:

• Advanced security integration with Prisma Access and Palo Alto’s next-gen firewalls

• AI-powered automation for simplified network management

• Granular application visibility and control

Pricing:

• Higher-end solution, with costs starting at £80-£250 per site/month

Performance:

• Excellent security and automation features

• High-performance application control and WAN optimization

• May be overkill for smaller businesses with simpler networking needs

5. Aryaka Managed SD-WAN

Overview:

Aryaka differentiates itself as a fully managed SD-WAN solution, making it an attractive option for businesses that want a hands-off approach.

Key Features:

• Fully managed service with built-in global private backbone

• Integrated security and application acceleration

• Predictable performance with low-latency global connectivity

Pricing:

• Generally more expensive due to its managed service model

• Estimated costs range from £100-£300 per site/month

Performance:

• Best for enterprises requiring global, low-latency SD-WAN

• High reliability with minimal IT overhead

• Costly for organizations that prefer an in-house management approach

Comparison Table

Provider	Key Strengths	Best For	Pricing (Per Site/Month)
Cisco Viptela	Enterprise scalability, security integration	Large enterprises, complex networks	£50-£200
Fortinet Secure SD-WAN	Built-in security, cost-effective	Security-conscious businesses	£30-£100
VMware SD-WAN	Cloud-first, AI-driven optimization	Cloud-focused enterprises, SaaS-heavy networks	£50-£150
Palo Alto Prisma SD-WAN	Advanced security, automation	Enterprises with stringent security needs	£80-£250
Aryaka Managed SD-WAN	Fully managed, global connectivity	Large, globally distributed enterprises	£100-£300

Conclusion

Choosing the right SD-WAN provider depends on your organisation’s priorities. Cisco Viptela and Palo Alto Prisma SD-WAN excel in security and enterprise-grade performance, Fortinet provides cost-effective security integration, VMware is ideal for cloud optimisation, and Aryaka offers a fully managed solution for global connectivity.

By understanding the strengths and costs of each provider, businesses can make an informed decision that aligns with their network strategy.

Need help selecting the right SD-WAN solution for your business? Contact us today for expert guidance!