Juniper Networks has expanded its Contrail SD-WAN cloud package, in a move to spruce up its software-defined branch management and switch options.
Contrail SD WAN now includes support for SD-LAN operations, incorporating the ability to manage branch office LANs and provision new devices.
It means that customers can now easily provision Juniper Ex Series switches to manage LAN fabrics and configure LAN virtualisation and security from one cloud-managed portal, in the same way they operate their SD-WAN environments. This unified approach will help organisations reduce costs, streamline workflows and leverage the WAN and LAN network for connected security, Juniper Networks said.
The same revamped portal can also be used to show Mist wireless access points and launch Mist cloud for WLAN provisioning, troubleshooting, management and other day-to-day operations, including the vendor’s wired/wireless assurance capabilities.
As well as its software enhancements, Juniper has also bolstered its hardware portfolio with some key additions, including a new Wi-Fi card for its line of branch SRX (SRX 3xx and SRX550) next-generation firewalls and secure SD-WAN edge devices. The card will allow organisations to deploy Wi-Fi with zero-touch configuration alongside LTE, ethernet and other network transport options, the firm said.
Manoj Leelanivas, chief product officer at Juniper Networks said: “Juniper has a unique and innovative vision of unifying wired, wireless, SD-WAN and security under a common framework that delivers unparalleled automation, insight and actions to our enterprise customers.These latest enhancements take us one step closer to that goal by expanding the breadth of our cloud offering and deliveringeven more deployment options for simple, seamless and secure campus and branch networks.”
