A 1 Gbps SD-WAN device can be ordered from vendors like Cisco, Aruba, Fortinet, or Palo Alto, but correct throughput licensing and platform selection are essential.

Key Considerations for Ordering

Throughput vs Interface Speed: Physical interface speed (e.g., 1G, 10G) does not automatically determine SD-WAN throughput. Licensing tiers, software release, and device role affect the actual encrypted or SD-WAN traffic capacity, so a 1G interface may require a specific bandwidth tier to achieve 1 Gbps SD-WAN throughput (Cisco example) . Platform Selection:

• Cisco Catalyst 8000 Series: C8200, C8300, and C8500 platforms support SD-WAN deployments. For 1G throughput, confirm the exact model, role, and software release, and select the appropriate Cisco DNA Software for SD-WAN subscription (e.g., DNA-P-T0-A-3Y, DNA-C-T1-E-3Y) .
• Aruba EdgeConnect: Physical appliances support up to 1 Gbps without optional memory kits. Ensure the appliance SKU matches the desired throughput and deployment model (branch or hybrid WAN) .
• Fortinet SD-WAN: Offers branch and hub devices with throughput metrics. Select a device based on users, connectivity, and redundancy requirements, and confirm licensing/subscription tiers for 1G performance .
• Palo Alto Prisma SD-WAN: Instant-On ION devices integrate multiple WAN types and support cloud-delivered SD-WAN. Confirm the model and throughput requirements before ordering . Licensing and Subscriptions: Most vendors require a software subscription or license to enable SD-WAN features. For Cisco, this involves selecting the correct DNA Software subscription and bandwidth tier. Fortinet and Aruba also require subscription tiers for advanced SD-WAN features, security, and centralized management. Deployment Model: Decide whether the device will be deployed on-premises, virtualized, or in the cloud. Virtual deployments may have different throughput limits and licensing requirements. Additional Recommendations:
• Validate the Smart Account or management account for license assignment (Cisco).
• Confirm HSEC or SLAC requirements if applicable (Cisco).
• Check for optional memory or network kits that may increase throughput (Aruba EdgeConnect).
• Ensure the device supports the intended WAN connections (MPLS, broadband, LTE/5G). By carefully selecting the platform, model, licensing tier, and deployment type, you can order an SD-WAN device capable of handling 1 Gbps of SD-WAN traffic while ensuring compliance with vendor specifications and subscription requirements.