SD-WAN Solution Characteristics and Architecture
SD-WAN can be used to provide secure connectivity to remote offices, branch offices, campus networks, data centers, and the cloud over any type of IP-based underlay transport network. Which two statements describe SD-WAN solutions? (Choose two.)
Community Votes
57% of anonymous learners picked answer AD. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Community Insight
The question asks for descriptions of SD-WAN solutions based on their technical definition (architecture and management) rather than business outcomes or performance guarantees.
This question tests the core architectural components of SD-WAN, specifically its separation of control and data planes and its reliance on centralized orchestration. The correct options describe the fundamental technical mechanisms that define SD-WAN solutions.
Many learners choose E (cost savings) because it is a primary business driver for adopting SD-WAN. However, cost savings are a result of using cheaper underlays (like broadband), not an inherent description of the solution's operational efficiency in the context of the exam's specific wording.
Community Discussion (8 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
SD-WAN is fundamentally an application of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) principles to wide-area networks. Therefore, like SDN, it relies on the separation of the control plane (management logic) from the data forwarding plane (packet switching). This separation allows for centralized management and programmability. Additionally, SD-WAN solutions are characterized by centralized orchestration platforms that manage policies across the network and Zero-Touch Provisioning (ZTP) to automate the deployment of edge devices. These two features (Options A and D) are the defining technical characteristics of SD-WAN architecture.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B is incorrect because while SD-WAN can run on commodity hardware, it is not defined by allowing variations in specialized switching hardware; many vendors use proprietary appliances. Option C is incorrect because SD-WAN improves performance through path selection but is not 'inherently protected' against slow performance; it mitigates issues but does not eliminate them entirely. Option E is a common distractor; while SD-WAN leads to cost savings, this is achieved primarily by replacing expensive MPLS circuits with cheaper broadband connections (underlay economics), not necessarily through 'improved operational efficiencies' as the primary mechanism described in standard definitions. The exam focuses on the 'what' (architecture) rather than the 'why' (business case).Community Comment Notes
Community consensus is split between AD and DE. Several users argue for DE based on business value, noting that 'cost savings is the best answer'. Others, correctly identifying the technical nature of the question, support AD, citing the separation of planes and ZTP as key SD-WAN features. One user noted that cost savings come from circuit types, not just operational efficiency, supporting the rejection of E.Exam Strategy
When asked what describes a technology 'solution', look for architectural definitions (how it works) rather than benefits (why you buy it). For SD-WAN/SDN questions, always prioritize concepts like 'separation of control/data planes' and 'centralized orchestration' over generic IT benefits like 'efficiency' or 'security'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't cost savings (E) a correct answer?
Cost savings are a business outcome derived from using cheaper underlays (broadband vs MPLS), not an inherent technical description of the SD-WAN solution's architecture or operation.
Does SD-WAN separate control and data planes?
Yes, SD-WAN applies SDN principles where the control plane (management) is decoupled from the data plane (forwarding), enabling centralized policy enforcement.