06 June 2025

Jisc’s Managed SD-WAN service provides a flexible and efficient way to connect to the Janet Network, the UK’s national research and education network (NREN), supporting enterprise digital transformation.

SD-WAN utilizes software to optimize WAN performance, replacing traditional hardware-based solutions. Unlike conventional networks that depend on physical routers and manual configuration, SD-WAN separates hardware from the control system, enabling centralized management that is more efficient and easier to oversee.

Through Jisc’s partnership with BT and Fortinet, organizations can extend connectivity beyond the physical campus boundaries to remote and underserved areas, integrating sites across the community. Setting up an SD-WAN connection is faster than traditional networks and requires no additional infrastructure, allowing rapid deployment to meet evolving organizational needs.

The service includes built-in security features of the Janet Network, such as foundational DDoS protection and JNRS, enhancing cybersecurity posture.

The benefits of SD-WAN are substantial. It provides quick and straightforward access to the Janet Network without the need for new infrastructure. It ensures secure and reliable connectivity through edge-based firewall management and advanced security measures, protecting against threats and enforcing security policies effectively. The scalable infrastructure supports multi-site and inter-site connectivity, allowing rapid deployment and configuration of geographically dispersed locations within a unified network architecture — delivering greater performance, flexibility, and operational efficiency.