Prisma SD-WAN in Action - Demo
I started the Palo Alto SD-WAN demo by deploying the Panorama™ management server to centrally govern the SD-WAN setup across both hub and branch devices. The server consolidates management tasks and reduces operational load. I found the installation of the Prisma SD-WAN plugin and configuration straightforward, with simple to manage interface settings and SD-WAN configurations.
Below: Palo Alto Panorama is the centralised management portal used to configure, deploy and read reporting statistics across our test SD-WAN.
Prisma SD-WAN ensures application availability based on real-time performance SLAs and visibility, which delivers a significant improvement in performance compared to legacy MPLS. Palo SD-WAN uses application response time to determine the optimal path for a flow and confirms that the path adheres to the application's requirements. In our test, the traffic steering feature worked by performing below latency, jitter and packet loss threshold levels.
I noted that Primsa publicises their capability to reduce network trouble tickets by up to 99% by providing at-a-glance management of multiple Internet and MPLS circuitst. Prisma's user-friendly interface and integration with Prisma Access for securing remote networks demonstrates that it is simpler for IT teams to understand network issues which reduces the reliance on support.
As the demo progressed, it became clear that Palo Alto has an good SD-WAN features but excellent SASE security capability. The integration of next-generation firewalls into the SD-WAN architecture provided me with a highly secure environment, capable of safeguarding sensitive business with comprehensive cloud security measures integrated into their network fabric. The intent is to ensure that cloud applications and protected against cyber threats.
Through the Panorama management server, I set up and monitored link health to manage traffic across the demo network. One clear benefit I noted was the ability to facilitate centralise control without compromising the granular visibility required to safeguard and enhance branch-office and user experience. For instance, handling traffic for cloud services and applications through encrypted links proved to be reliable during the test.
Below: Here, we connected 3rd party endpoints via the branch management interface.
In my hands-on experience, I valued the capability of the Palo Alto Prisma suite to extend security to remote users, regardless of their location without compromise vs branch-office or HQ sites. These features are important for businesses that are increasingly reliant on the cloud for their operational needs.
Palo Alto Prisma SD-WAN, initially CloudGenix, has significantly evolved since Palo Alto Networks acquired the company in 2020. Prisma now supports complex network architectures and offers improved network visibility. Palo Alto Networks has continued their development, specifically surrounding SASE capabilities.
