SDWAN vs. SDN

[Michael1975]

My company uses SD-WAN, my school offers a class on SDN. I know they are not the same thing, my question is if I learn about SDN, will some of that knowledge help me understand SD-WAN?

[Torbjørn]

Software Defined Networking is a concept, of which SD-WAN is an example of. You are likely to be better prepared to learn an SD-WAN solution by learning about SDN. If these subjects interest you I can recommend watching this video by NetworkChuck: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isMnWZqAh0k 

These pages might also be interesting to you:

• SDN overview page.
• What is SD-WAN 
• SD-WAN solution overview.

The Cisco Learning Network is also a good place to both learn and interact with others who are on the same path as you: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/

Good luck with your studies! 

[Michael1975]

Thanks for your input. It was very helpful.

[Kanan Huseynli · Accepted solution]

Hi,

SDN is generic concept which is Software Defined Network.

Original concept is decouple control and data plane. If you learn any generic information about SDN, then you will have understanding how it differs from classic networking. Although this information will be helpful, but will not provide direct information for SD-WAN.

Indeed, SD-WAN technology is type of SDN for WAN. Different vendors have different solutions, concept, architecture. In the final, all can be managed via programmable options and have built-in automation options > which is reason it is called "software defined".

[Michael1975]

Thank you for your  answer. You were very helpful.