Global Network Modernization With SD-WAN

Previous Network Model & Challenges

Historically, Arup relied on private WAN (Wide Area Network) links using MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) and Cisco-based routing and switching devices, with separate firewall and WAN acceleration solutions for security and performance. The company then transitioned to a fully managed multipath Ethernet service to improve network efficiency and support cloud migration, combining MPLS and Direct Internet Access (DIA). This shift increased bandwidth and enabled local site breakouts, but several challenges remained:

• Operational complexity: Managing policy-based routing requirements and firewall policies across 100+ sites, including virtual cloud edges, remained a significant burden to the IT team.
• Rigid traffic routing: Active-passive configurations wasted bandwidth, and the absence of dynamic routing limited efficiency.
• Limited visibility: Measuring bandwidth consumption accurately and identifying potential saturation was challenging, requiring costly tools or custom-built software.
• Global connectivity challenges: Maintaining reliable infrastructure in typically challenging network locations such as Dubai, Bogota, China, Mauritius, and parts of Africa was complex due to varying service providers and infrastructure inconsistencies.
• Slow site deployments: MPLS provisioning could take months, frustrating the business with expectations of faster network rollouts.

As the company’s Digital Technology Strategy progressed, as expected, cloud adoption increased, and DIA reliance grew. As such, Arup recognized the need for a more agile, cost-effective, and scalable solution. The high costs, operational complexity, and limited flexibility of the existing setup made Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) the next logical step. By adopting SD-WAN, Arup aimed to eliminate MPLS dependencies, simplify network management, and seamlessly integrate security and performance enhancements.

Additionally, Arup’s long-term cloud-first, data-driven transformation strategy required a network that seamlessly supports public cloud services like Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS) while ensuring high security and performance. SD-WAN was also key to enabling self-service capabilities for engineers and enhancing agility across the organization.

Why Arup Chose Teneo and Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN

During its SD-WAN evaluation, Arup assessed several solutions as part of an RFP (Request for Proposal) exercise before selecting Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN, which stood out for four key reasons:

• Alignment with Business Needs: Aruba delivered precisely what Arup needed – a single solution at a competitive price point, tailored to their specific requirements.
• Ease of Use: The intuitive Aruba interface made it easy for Arup’s engineers, many of whom were hardened Cisco engineers, to quickly adopt and operate the platform without steep learning curves.
• Cloud-first Architecture: Easy and flexible integration with Public clouds and combined with Boost (WAN Optimization) capabilities eliminated the need for costly Azure ExpressRoute or AWS Direct Connect.
• Boost Feature for WAN Acceleration Replacement: Aruba’s Boost capability provided an efficient alternative to aging WAN acceleration devices, eliminating the need for costly replacements while improving traffic management and file read/write performance.

Choosing Teneo as a partner was equally strategic, with Teneo standing out for three key reasons:

• Specialized Expertise in Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN: Teneo’s deep technical knowledge and long-term experience with Aruba EdgeConnect  SD-WAN set them apart from generalist providers. This ensured Arup worked with a dedicated technology expert rather than a broad, unfocused partner, allowing for a smoother and more efficient deployment.
• Flexible Co-Management Model: Unlike previous fully managed telco services, where Arup’s engineers had no direct access to edge devices or logs, Teneo’s co-managed approach provides the best of both worlds. Teneo’s team proactively monitors and manages the network, while Arup retains full visibility and control over its infrastructure. This allows Arup’s engineers to access devices when needed and diagnose issues independently or in collaboration with Teneo.
• ‘Boutique-style’ Customer-Focused Approach: Teneo’s smaller, highly specialized team delivered a personalized and high-touch service that larger providers could not match. Rather than being treated as just another account, Arup received dedicated support, with Teneo acting as an extension of their IT team. The ability to build strong working relationships with technical experts ensured consistency, responsiveness, and a deeper understanding of Arup’s network environment.

Seamless Implementation & Deployment

The implementation of Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN was carefully structured, with Teneo’s project and architecture teams working closely with Arup’s engineering, architecture, and operations teams. A well-organized project management approach ensured every stage remained on track. From high-level design to detailed implementation, the solution passed Arup’s stringent internal design authority process, reflecting Teneo’s technical expertise.

Deployment followed a comprehensive plan covering hardware tracking, pre-checks, hypercare transition, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. With operations spanning multiple regions, Arup faced logistical challenges in delivering equipment with strict import/export regulations to complex locations. Teneo expertly managed these hurdles, ensuring timely deliveries without burdening Arup’s teams.