Revolutionising Connectivity: How Connected Networks Implemented An SD-WAN Solution For An International Legal Firm

In the wake of the first COVID-19 lockdown, businesses worldwide faced unprecedented challenges in maintaining operations while transitioning to remote work. An international legal firm was no exception. As they adapted to home working, video conferencing became the lifeline for their dislocated workforce, ensuring continuity in client services and internal collaboration. However, this shift revealed significant bandwidth limitations within their existing network infrastructure, particularly when transitioning to a hybrid work model post-lockdown.

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The Challenge: Bandwidth Strain from Increased Video Calling

Returning to the office in a hybrid format, the legal firm encountered a critical issue: their reliance on video calling had drastically increased, putting an unsustainable strain on their bandwidth. The existing MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) network, while reliable for a traditional office setting, was ill-equipped to handle the surge in data traffic from video conferencing, leading to decreased performance and productivity.

The Solution: SD-WAN by Connected Networks

Recognising the need for a robust, flexible networking solution, Connected Networks proposed the implementation of an SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) infrastructure. This cutting-edge technology was designed to meet the firm’s specific requirements, offering a seamless transition without disrupting their daily operations. The SD-WAN solution provided by Connected Networks offered several key advantages:

- Efficient Bandwidth Utilisation: By leveraging SD-WAN, the legal firm could dynamically route high-bandwidth traffic, such as video calls, through the public internet. This approach significantly alleviated the load on their MPLS network, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications.

- Enhanced Security: Despite utilising the public internet for certain traffic, SD-WAN’s advanced encryption and security protocols ensured that all data remained secure, addressing potential concerns about confidentiality and data protection.

- Global Connectivity: The SD-WAN network spanned multiple geographies, connecting the firm’s offices worldwide. This not only facilitated better communication and collaboration but also provided the flexibility to adapt to changing bandwidth demands across different regions.

- Cost Efficiency: By optimising the use of existing network resources and reducing reliance on expensive MPLS links, the firm benefited from significant cost savings without compromising on quality or security.

The Outcome: A Future-Proof Network

The implementation of the SD-WAN solution by Connected Networks marked a transformative step for the international legal firm. Not only did it resolve the immediate challenges posed by increased video conferencing demands, but it also positioned the firm to better handle future growth and technological shifts. The flexibility and scalability of SD-WAN mean that as the firm continues to evolve, its network infrastructure will support, rather than hinder, its progress.

How can Connected Networks help my firm with our connectivity issues?

At Connected Networks, we understand that the right IT network and connectivity solutions are pivotal to the success of any business, especially in today’s rapidly changing digital landscape. Our expertise in implementing SD-WAN and other high-end IT network systems across various sectors, not limited to the legal industry, enables us to provide tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of our clients.

Whether you’re facing challenges similar to those of the international legal firm or looking to proactively upgrade your network infrastructure, Connected Networks is here to help. Our team of experts is ready to advise and guide you through the process of selecting and implementing the most effective IT network solutions for your business. Connect with us today to explore how we can support your connectivity needs and drive your business forward.

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