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Integration with Existing SD-WAN and MPLS Solutions

USDN is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing network infrastructure, including traditional MPLS networks and modern SD-WAN solutions. This integration capability allows organizations to gradually migrate to USDN or use it as a complementary overlay network without disrupting existing operations.

Overview​

USDN provides flexible integration options that enable organizations to:

  • Extend existing SD-WAN deployments with enhanced security and USDN Chain-based configuration control
  • Migrate from MPLS networks while maintaining connectivity and performance
  • Create hybrid networks that leverage the best of both worlds
  • Implement gradual rollouts without network downtime

Integration Architectures​

1. USDN as SD-WAN Overlay​

In this architecture, USDN operates as an overlay network on top of existing SD-WAN infrastructure, providing additional security and centralized USDN Chain configuration control.

2. MPLS to USDN Migration​

This architecture shows a hybrid approach where USDN gradually replaces MPLS connectivity while maintaining backward compatibility.

Integration Methods​

1. BGP Route Exchange​

USDN can exchange routing information with existing networks using BGP (Border Gateway Protocol):

  • Route Redistribution: Import/export routes between USDN and legacy networks
  • Policy Control: Apply routing policies to control traffic flow
  • Load Balancing: Distribute traffic across multiple paths
  • Failover: Automatic failover between USDN and backup paths

2. GRE/IPSec Tunneling​

For networks that require traditional tunneling protocols:

  • GRE over USDN: Encapsulate existing GRE tunnels within USDN encrypted channels
  • IPSec Integration: Maintain existing IPSec policies while using USDN transport
  • Tunnel Aggregation: Combine multiple legacy tunnels into single USDN connections

3. VLAN and VRF Integration​

Maintain network segmentation and isolation:

  • VLAN Extension: Extend VLANs across USDN network
  • VRF Mapping: Map existing VRFs to USDN virtual networks
  • QoS Preservation: Maintain quality of service markings and policies

Migration Strategies​

1. Greenfield Deployment​

For new sites or network expansions:

  • Deploy USDN nodes directly
  • No legacy integration required
  • Full USDN feature utilization
  • Optimal performance and security

2. Brownfield Integration​

For existing network environments:

Phase 1: Pilot Deployment​

  • Select 2-3 sites for initial USDN deployment
  • Maintain existing connectivity as backup
  • Test and validate USDN functionality
  • Train operations team

Phase 2: Gradual Migration​

  • Add USDN nodes to additional sites
  • Create hybrid connectivity (USDN + legacy)
  • Gradually shift traffic to USDN paths
  • Maintain legacy as backup

Phase 3: Legacy Replacement​

  • Decommission legacy connections
  • Full USDN deployment
  • Optimize network configuration
  • Remove legacy equipment

3. Parallel Operation​

Run USDN alongside existing infrastructure:

  • Use USDN for specific applications or traffic types
  • Maintain existing network for legacy applications
  • Implement based on application requirements
  • Gradual application migration

Configuration Examples​

BGP Integration Configuration​

# USDN vrouter BGP configuration
vrouter bgp 65001
 bgp router-id 10.0.1.1
 neighbor 10.0.1.2 remote-as 65002
 neighbor 10.0.1.2 description "Legacy MPLS Router"
 
 address-family ipv4 unicast
  redistribute connected
  redistribute static
  neighbor 10.0.1.2 activate
  neighbor 10.0.1.2 route-map USDN-OUT out
  neighbor 10.0.1.2 route-map USDN-IN in
 exit-address-family

Route Policy Configuration​

# Route map for controlling traffic flow
route-map USDN-OUT permit 10
 match ip address prefix-list USDN-NETWORKS
 set community 65001:100

route-map USDN-IN permit 10
 match community 65002:200
 set local-preference 150

Benefits of Integration​

Operational Benefits​

  • Reduced Risk: Gradual migration minimizes disruption
  • Flexibility: Choose integration method based on requirements
  • Continuity: Maintain existing operations during transition
  • Skills Reuse: Leverage existing network knowledge

Technical Benefits​

  • Enhanced Security: Add USDN Chain–backed configuration integrity to existing networks
  • Improved Performance: Optimize routing with USDN intelligence
  • Cost Optimization: Reduce MPLS costs while maintaining connectivity
  • Future-Proofing: Prepare network for modern requirements

Business Benefits​

  • Lower Total Cost: Gradual migration reduces capital expenditure
  • Faster ROI: Immediate benefits from partial deployment
  • Risk Mitigation: Maintain backup connectivity during transition
  • Competitive Advantage: Enhanced network capabilities

Best Practices​

Planning​

  1. Network Assessment: Thoroughly analyze existing network topology
  2. Traffic Analysis: Understand current traffic patterns and requirements
  3. Pilot Sites: Select representative sites for initial deployment
  4. Migration Timeline: Plan realistic migration schedule

Implementation​

  1. Dual Connectivity: Maintain redundant paths during migration
  2. Monitoring: Implement comprehensive monitoring for both networks
  3. Testing: Thoroughly test all integration points
  4. Documentation: Maintain detailed configuration documentation

Operations​

  1. Staff Training: Ensure team understands both legacy and USDN systems
  2. Procedures: Develop operational procedures for hybrid environment
  3. Troubleshooting: Create troubleshooting guides for integration scenarios
  4. Performance Monitoring: Monitor performance of integrated systems

Troubleshooting Integration Issues​

Common Issues​

  • Routing Loops: BGP misconfiguration between USDN and legacy systems
  • MTU Problems: Packet size issues with tunnel encapsulation
  • QoS Mapping: Quality of service marking inconsistencies
  • Authentication: Certificate or key mismatches

Resolution Steps​

  1. Verify Configuration: Check all integration point configurations
  2. Monitor Traffic: Use packet capture and flow analysis
  3. Test Connectivity: Verify end-to-end connectivity
  4. Escalation Path: Define clear escalation procedures

USDN's flexible integration capabilities ensure that organizations can adopt the technology at their own pace while maintaining network stability and performance throughout the migration process.