Solving network and security challenges in today’s industry

As organizations move towards digital transformation, branches are becoming critical hubs for innovation and operations. They host a variety of devices, users, and cloud applications that support business agility and customer engagement. However, the rapid expansion of the branch infrastructure has caused serious problems, particularly in networks and security.

The growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in branches is one of the most pressing issues. From sensors and printers to medical equipment and smart lighting, IoT devices are proliferating rapidly. According to Statistathe number of IoT connections worldwide is expected to double from 15.9 billion in 2023 to over 32 billion by 2030. While such devices increase efficiency and enable innovation, they also widen the attack surface, creating unique security vulnerabilities.

At the same time, increasing bandwidth requirements, hybrid operations and the need for cloud connectivity are driving changes in branch networks. Legacy architectures that rely on hub-and-spoke models and MPLS-based WAN connectivity are no longer sufficient to meet today’s performance and scalability requirements. These legacy infrastructures create bottlenecks, reduce visibility, and increase the complexity of managing distributed environments.

Network and security issues

The challenges facing branch networks are multi-faceted, requiring IT leaders to respond to growing demand, increasing complexity and access to the Internet of Things while ensuring robust security.

Traditional WAN architectures, which route traffic through centralized data centers for security checks, struggle to meet performance expectations. Applications such as video conferencing, cloud collaboration, and IoT analytics require fast and reliable connections that legacy technologies cannot consistently provide. Such solutions SD-WAN have emerged to provide more efficient connectivity, but many solutions lack the integrated security capabilities needed to protect distributed environments.

This problem is complicated by the complexity of the branches of the architecture. Most offices rely on a patchwork of devices, including routers, firewalls, switches, and wireless access points, that are not fully integrated. This disjointed approach makes it difficult for IT teams to monitor traffic, enforce security policies, and detect network threats. Lack of centralized visibility and policy management increases inefficiencies and delays response to security incidents.

Growing reliance on IoT devices further complicates branch security. IoT devices often lack built-in security features, cannot be patched, and are often deployed without the knowledge of IT teams. This creates blind spots that attackers can exploit to gain access to the wider network. Additionally, traditional endpoint security solutions are too resource-intensive for most IoT devices, making them vulnerable to malware, botnets, and unauthorized access.

We solve problems with the help of SD-Branch

To overcome these challenges, organizations are turning to software-defined branch (SD-Branch) solution. SD-Branch integrates networking and security into a single platform, providing centralized visibility and management across distributed locations.

An effective SD-Branch solution integrates important functions such as SD-WAN, new generation firewalls, secure wireless accessand network access control. This unified approach simplifies operations, reduces inefficiencies and improves security, allowing IT teams to monitor and control all branch activities from a single console.

For example, SD branch office solutions support centralized policy enforcement, ensuring consistent application of security measures across all locations. They also provide real-time visibility into branch network traffic, allowing teams to identify and respond quickly to threats. Additionally, through integration with IoT management tools, SD-branch platforms can automatically identify, classify and secure connected devices, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or malware infiltration.

The role of IoT security

Securing IoT devices is vital to any branch’s strategy. Cybercriminals often target these devices because they are often overlooked by traditional security models. To address this risk, SD-Branch solutions must offer built-in IoT security features such as automatic device connection, continuous monitoring, and policy-based threat response.

For example, if an IoT device is identified as vulnerable or compromised, the SD-Branch platform should automatically isolate it from the network, preventing lateral movement and further damage. This proactive approach improves security and helps organizations comply with industry regulations.

Strategic advantages of SD-Branch

Adopting an SD-Branch solution provides several key benefits:

• Improved security: By integrating network and security functions, SD-Branch reduces blind spots and enables a coordinated response to threats. Features such as intrusion prevention, traffic segmentation and zero-trust enforcement protect branch networks from sophisticated attacks.
• Improved performance: With SD-WAN at the heart of SD-Branch, communication between branches, cloud services and data centers is optimized. Intelligent traffic routing ensures critical applications receive the bandwidth they need, minimizing latency and downtime.
• Simplified operations: Centralized management tools streamline the configuration and monitoring of branch networks, reducing the burden on IT teams. Automation further increases efficiency by performing routine tasks such as policy updates and device adaptation.
• Saving money: Consolidating network and security on a single platform eliminates the need for multiple stand-alone devices, reducing hardware, licensing and maintenance costs.

The future of the branch network

As IoT adoption accelerates and organizations continue to rely on distributed environments, the need for secure, scalable branch office solutions will only grow. SD-Branch represents a promising approach that solves the complex issues of modern networks and security, especially in the conditions of modern highly distributed hybrid networks.

By integrating critical functions into a single platform, SD-Branch enables organizations to build sustainable, efficient and secure branch networks. This approach not only meets the requirements of today’s digital landscape, but also allows companies to adapt to future challenges and opportunities.

SD-Branch offers a clear path for IT leaders navigating complex branch networks, providing the performance, visibility and security needed to thrive in today’s increasingly connected world.

Learn more about Fortinet SD Branch.