Examine enterprise networking challenges and discover how SD-WAN, SASE and AI-driven automation support network performance, security and efficiency.
Enterprise networking optimization has become crucial recently due to increasing demand for a secure, adaptable, reliable, and interoperable network infrastructure. Novel techniques to optimize network security and to improve scalability and efficiency are constantly being developed by network enablers, particularly in more challenging multi-cloud and edge scenarios. This paper, therefore, presents a comprehensive review of the traditional and most recent developments in enterprise networking. We structure the paper with particular emphasis on the adoption of state-of-the-art technologies, such as software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN), secure access service edge (SASE) architecture, and network automation, driven by artificial intelligence (AI). The review also identifies various challenges associated with the adoption of the aforementioned technologies. These include operational complexity, cybersecurity threats, and trade-offs between cost-effectiveness and high performance requirements. Furthermore, the paper examines how different organizations are addressing a plethora of challenges by exploiting these technological innovations to drive robust and agile business interconnectivity. The review is concluded with an outline of possible solutions and future prospects, capable of promoting digital transformation and enhancing seamless connectivity within the enterprise networking environment.