As enterprise networks evolve to support hybrid workforces, cloud-first strategies, and distributed applications, traditional WAN architectures are falling short. HPE Aruba EdgeConnect, formerly Silver Peak, delivers a purpose-built SD-WAN solution that combines performance, security, and agility - making it a top choice for organizations seeking a modern, scalable network fabric.
EdgeConnect Architecture Overview
At the heart of the EdgeConnect platform is a segregated control, data, and management plane, designed for scale and performance. The architecture includes:
- EdgeConnect Appliances: Physical or virtual devices deployed at branch offices, data centers, or cloud edges. These support up to 12 Gbps throughput and hundreds of thousands of simultaneous connections. 1
- Aruba Orchestrator: A centralized management platform available as SaaS, on-prem, or customer-managed cloud. It enables policy-based routing, real-time monitoring, and zero-touch provisioning across thousands of sites. 1
- Business Intent Overlays (BIOs): Define application-specific routing policies based on business priorities, ensuring optimal path selection and QoS.
- First-Packet iQ: Identifies applications on the first packet to enable secure local breakout and precise traffic steering.
- Path Conditioning & Tunnel Bonding: Mitigates packet loss, latency, and jitter by combining multiple WAN links (MPLS, broadband, LTE, 5G) into a resilient overlay.
- Aruba Boost: Optional WAN optimization module for TCP acceleration, compression, and deduplication.
This architecture supports seamless integration with Zero Trust and SASE frameworks, enabling secure access to cloud and SaaS applications without backhauling traffic to centralized data centers. 2
Strategic Benefits of EdgeConnect
HPE Aruba EdgeConnect delivers measurable advantages across key dimensions:
- Performance: Real-time path selection and WAN optimization ensure consistent application delivery—even over commodity internet.
- Security: Integrated NGFW, IDS/IPS, role-based segmentation, and secure web gateway (SWG) features reduce reliance on external security appliances.2
- Agility: Zero-touch provisioning and centralized orchestration accelerate deployment and simplify operations.
- Cost Efficiency: Organizations can reduce MPLS dependency and cut WAN costs by up to 90%. 3
- Cloud Optimization: Direct-to-cloud routing improves SaaS/IaaS performance and user experience.
EdgeConnect stands out for its purpose-built SD-WAN architecture, deep cloud integration, and robust security stack - all managed through a single pane of glass.
Why HPE Aruba EdgeConnect Stands Out
- 7x Gartner Leader: Recognized consistently for innovation and execution 4
- Cloud-first design: Optimized for SaaS/IaaS with direct-to-cloud routing
- Security built-in: Role-based segmentation, encryption, and SASE-ready architecture
- Operational simplicity: Centralized orchestration and zero-touch provisioning
- Customer satisfaction: 4.7/5 rating across 155 Gartner Peer Insights reviews 4
Ready to Explore EdgeConnect for Your Enterprise?
Whether you're replacing MPLS, consolidating branch infrastructure, or building a secure cloud edge, Advizex can help you evaluate, design, and deploy HPE Aruba EdgeConnect tailored to your business needs.
Take the next step toward a modern, secure SD-WAN.
Schedule your complimentary Workshop to connect with Advizex experts, explore the SD-WAN advantage, and build your roadmap for success.
Want to learn more first? Read our Technical Newsletter: The SD-WAN Advantage.
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