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What are cloud-based WANs?

A cloud-based WAN is an all-in-one service that delivers wide area networking capabilities from the cloud, with minimal on-site infrastructure and no manual setup.

It combines cloud technologies like SD-WAN, SASE, ZTNA and FWaaS into a single managed service, designed for agile organisations with significant remote users and heavy use of cloud apps.

This article explains what a cloud-based WAN is, how it works, and why many businesses are making the switch.

Contents:

• What is a cloud-based WAN?
• Why businesses are adopting cloud-based WANs
• Key features of cloud-based WANs
• How to implement a cloud-based WAN
• Benefits of cloud-based WANs
• Migrations into cloud-based WANs
• Cloud-based WAN providers

What is a cloud-based WAN?

A cloud-based WAN is a comprehensive wide area network (WAN) solution that’s delivered and managed remotely via the cloud.

It connects and secures all the key parts of a business network (i.e. offices, sites, remote users, data centres and cloud platforms) through a single, cloud-based platform.

This simplifies network operation, eliminating the need for complex on-site hardware and manual configuration.

Cloud-based WANs bundle several modern networking and security technologies into one unified, “WAN-as-a-Service”, that includes:

• SD-WAN solutions: Smart traffic routing and encryption over any type of internet connection.
• ZTNA: Zero trust access controls for secure user and device authentication (as part of a SASE framework).
• FWaaS: Cloud-based firewall services.
• Private backbone access: Access to high-speed global networks that improve app performance and reduce latency.

These services combine to create a flexible, scalable WAN that’s easier to manage and built for modern, cloud-based operations. Cloud-based WANs suit both businesses transitioning away from legacy, hardware-heavy networks and digital-first teams seeking to unify cloud tools and remote users under a single platform.

Why businesses are adopting cloud-based WANs

Businesses are increasingly turning to cloud-based WANs because traditional solutions, such as VPNs, MPLS, and on-premises firewalls, aren’t well-suited to the demands of cloud-based operations and distributed workforces.

These technologies are still viable and can be secure, but they tend to be more complex to manage and more expensive to scale than cloud-delivered alternatives.

More recently, many businesses have adopted cloud-based tools like SD-WAN and SASE. While powerful, these often come as separate products or loosely integrated services.

SD-WAN enhances traffic routing while providing encryption for enhanced security. SASE adds cloud-delivered security, but doesn’t always give full access to private networks or handle advanced routing needs on its own.

Cloud-based WANs bring these technologies together into a single, unified service, combining smart traffic management, integrated security, and cloud optimisation.

This reduces the need for stitching together multiple cloud-delivered platforms, leading to more consistent performance and fewer operational gaps.

As more companies move to cloud-first infrastructure and hybrid or remote working models, this all-in-one approach is proving especially attractive, particularly for businesses that don’t want to manage custom infrastructure or maintain legacy systems.

Key features of cloud-based WANs

Here are the core features that differentiate cloud-based WANs from SD-WAN, SASE and traditional WANs like MPLS:

Cloud-delivered service

With a cloud-based WAN, the network is delivered as a service. That means the infrastructure, controls, and many security features run in the cloud, so there’s far less hardware (if any) to maintain on-site.

That said, businesses with physical sites do need to configure edge devices (business broadband routers) and other local equipment to ensure the service can be delivered appropriately.

Designed for SaaS integration

Cloud-based WANs are designed for businesses that rely on SaaS (e.g., CRMs, ERPs, Microsoft 365, Salesforce, etc.). They aim to connect employees and services to cloud apps more directly and efficiently, without unnecessary back-and-forth across the network.

Note that hybrid businesses that rely on both cloud and traditional systems may require a more customised architecture.

Easier onboarding and scaling

Adding new users, sites, or cloud services is a straightforward process with a cloud-based WAN, as it can be accomplished through lightweight software, pre-set virtual gateways, or integrations, rather than manually configuring devices or tunnels.

Integrating legacy systems or specialised environments may still require some customised setup, but onboarding modern sites and users is typically much faster than with traditional networks.

Integrated security by default

Security is fully embedded in the service. Cloud-based WANs come with Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS), DNS traffic filtering, and threat prevention by default.

These security features apply consistently across all locations, cloud services, and user devices. Larger or regulated organisations may still need to layer in existing security platforms or controls.

Access to high performance backbone networks

Most providers give access to private high-performance global networks for their cloud-WAN customers. These high-speed “motorways” can steer traffic more efficiently than the public internet, improving performance for real-time applications such as voice, video, and collaboration tools.

However, users and sites need to be near a provider’s access point to benefit fully, and the “last mile” (from the provider to the site) still relies on the public internet, which can impact performance.

Elastic, scalable, and resilient

Cloud-based WANs are designed to be flexible. Tasks such as opening new offices, shifting services to the cloud, and authorising devices outside local networks are significantly easier than traditional manual configurations.

Businesses simply need to ensure the underlying infrastructure can support this scalability, such as providing any physical sites with dedicated fibre optic business broadband, or giving employees laptops with the latest WiFi capabilities.

Built-in dashboards and analytics

Real-time network monitoring tools (dashboards and analytics) are part of the package. These help IT teams monitor performance, track usage, spot issues, and address them early, all from a single cloud-based platform.

For many businesses, this is a big improvement over older systems that relied on multiple tools. For regulated organisations, integration with existing monitoring or reporting tools may still be needed.

Available as a fully managed network service

While comprehensive, cloud-based WAN services do not include local area network setups and other hardware services.

Your IT team still needs to set up routers, switches and VLANs on-site, and procure a separate business broadband provider to install a leased line (usually best for business sites as it offers dedicated, symmetrical connectivity).

The good news is that cloud-based WANs are available as part of fully managed services that also outsource these components.

How to implement a cloud-based WAN

One of the biggest advantages of cloud-based WANs is that they’re far simpler to roll out than traditional WAN architectures.

In most cases, there’s no need for complex on-site installations because the core networking and security services are delivered from the cloud.

Most of the work is coordinated remotely, with the provider assigning an engineer to guide you through the process and coordination handled via a central dashboard.

When physical hardware is required (e.g. edge routers or network switches), providers usually send out pre-configured devices with instructions for local IT or facilities teams to plug in.

As a result, routine implementations can be completed in days. More complex rollouts (e.g. multiple sites, compliance requirements, plugging in legacy systems) may take a few weeks, depending on network readiness and internal processes.

Here’s what the typical implementation process looks like:

1. Choosing a provider

Timeframe: 1–2 days for simple comparisons; 1–2 weeks for formal procurement.

Start by selecting a provider that aligns with your business size, cloud usage, security needs, and support expectations. Many SD-WAN providers also offer cloud-based WAN solutions.

Compare features, pricing, global coverage, and support models. Many providers offer free consultations or demos to help with evaluation.

Understand the two main types of providers before choosing.

2. Define your scope

Timeframe: 2–5 days, depending on network visibility and the number of sites/cloud apps.

Outline what needs to be connected: remote users, branch offices, cloud platforms, and on-site systems. This determines whether you’ll use client software, virtual gateways, or edge devices, and how many.

If using a managed provider, this step is usually handled for you.

3. Onboard locations and users

Timeframe: 1–2 days for small rollouts; 1-2 weeks for 5-20 locations or cloud apps.

Different parts of the network are onboarded in different ways:

• Remote users: Lightweight client installation or browser-based ZTNA access (takes minutes).
• Offices: Use virtual gateways or deploy pre-configured routers and switches (if needed). Some cabling or local LAN integration may be needed.
• Cloud platforms: Connect using native integrations like AWS Transit Gateway or Azure Virtual WAN.

Note: Dependencies on leased lines or other third-party broadband provisioning can delay this step.

4. Policy setup and testing

Timeframe: 2–5 days, depending on policy complexity and internal review cycles.

Set up policies via the cloud-based WAN dashboard: firewall rules, ZTNA access control, routing priorities, etc. Most providers offer templates for faster setup of simple implementations.

You’ll also run diagnostics and simulate traffic to ensure that the policies work as expected before going live. Managed providers typically handle this step for you.

5. Troubleshooting and support

Timeframe: Resolved live or within 24 hours during rollout.

During onboarding, providers typically assign technical leads or onboarding engineers to help resolve common issues, like misrouted traffic, blocked ports, or client configuration errors.

Built-in logs and dashboards make it easier to spot and address problems quickly.

For fully managed services, this phase is usually handled entirely by the provider.

6. Ongoing management

Timeframe: Ongoing

You can manage access, monitor performance, and adjust policies through a user-friendly dashboard, with vendor support as needed. There’s no patching, no hardware upkeep, and no backend maintenance.

In a fully managed setup, your provider handles updates, monitoring, and optimisation on your behalf. You simply request changes or raise tickets, and the provider implements them.

Benefits of cloud-based WANs

Here are the benefits of deploying a comprehensive, cloud-based WAN performance and security layer:

Fastest and simplest WAN rollout

Because the core infrastructure is already built and delivered remotely via the cloud, getting up and running is far quicker than with any other WAN setup, be it traditional or cloud-based.

Less WAN operational overhead

With management, security, and routing handled through one platform, there’s no need to juggle multiple vendors or cloud tools. This streamlines day-to-day operations and reduces the burden on IT teams, especially in complex architectures.

Built for cloud usage and remote work

It offers consistent performance, security and access to all devices and platforms. Employees can securely access any SaaS application through optimal routes, regardless of their location, whether in the office, at home, or on a sales trip.

Most flexible WAN setup

Opening a new site, onboarding a new remote employee, or shifting more services into the cloud is very simple after setup. It may not be so simple for complex integrations but for most use cases, the network adapts to your business, not the other way around.

Easier WAN security governance

With security built into the platform, IT teams can apply policies consistently across users and apps, without needing separate firewall appliances or remote access tools. For most businesses, this simplifies compliance and reduces risk; however, some sectors may require additional controls.

Migrations into cloud-based WANs

The process of migrating to a cloud-based WAN depends on your existing network setup.

Some businesses are transitioning from expensive MPLS links, hardware firewalls, and site-based VPNs, while others are moving beyond a patchwork of basic VPNs and standalone cloud tools that have become increasingly difficult to manage at scale.

The goal of simplifying and modernising the WAN is the same, but each path has its own migration considerations:

For legacy WAN users (e.g. MPLS and on-site VPNs)

These organisations often have:

• MPLS circuit, VPN appliances, and traditional hardware firewalls.
• Multi-site deployments and internal WAN teams
• Separate tools for networking, security, and cloud access
• Pressure to reduce costs and support cloud or remote access

These businesses are typically migrating to reduce their reliance on costly and rigid infrastructure, simplify operations, and better support SaaS applications and remote workers, without having to rebuild their network from scratch.

Key considerations

• Integration with existing technologies: Can your cloud-based WAN integrate with current MPLS, dark fibre, business Ethernet services, or firewall setups? In many cases, legacy infrastructure can remain in place during rollout when abstracted for centralised cloud control.
• Phased migration strategy: Will you migrate site-by-site or by user group? A phased approach minimises disruption. Start with a pilot, such as one location, application, or user segment, before gradually replacing or complementing legacy systems.
• Operational shift: Migrating often shifts responsibility away from internal IT teams toward third-party providers. Ensure you’re comfortable with this trade-off, and establish clear expectations and trust before fully outsourcing operations.
• Security alignment: Will existing security tools conflict with the new platform? Ensure there’s no duplication or security blind spots by creating a clear handover or integration plan during the transition.

Migration checklist for legacy WANs:

1. Identify sites and systems suitable for a pilot phase.
2. Audit existing contracts (e.g. MPLS, firewalls) for exit flexibility.
3. Confirm hybrid compatibility with cloud-based WAN provider.
4. Map current and future security enforcement points.
5. Establish internal and external roles (support, monitoring, policy updates).
6. Plan a phased rollout with business stakeholders.
7. Define success metrics (e.g. latency improvements, reduced IT admin load).

Growing digital-first businesses

These businesses tend to be:

• Remote-first or hybrid, with few or no physical sites
• Heavy users of SaaS (Microsoft 365, Salesforce) and IaaS (AWS, Azure)
• Operating on basic VPNs or siloed tools that no longer scale
• Experiencing performance limitations or increased cybersecurity risk

Their goal is to improve performance, enforce zero trust access, simplify management, and future-proof their network with a scalable backbone network.

Key considerations

• SaaS optimisation: Does the provider offer smart routing and prioritisation for key tools like Google Workspace, Salesforce, or Microsoft 365? These platforms should be tested in a pilot to ensure performance improvements are measurable.
• Remote access and Zero Trust onboarding: How will remote staff authenticate and access resources? Confirm that users can securely connect and establish Zero Trust credentials with minimal friction.
• Policy management: Can your team manage access rules, routing, and security policies from a central dashboard? If not, consider a managed service provider to handle configuration and monitoring.
• Global backbone need: Do you require a private backbone for international traffic? Review your geographic distribution to determine if global performance guarantees are necessary or if a more regional solution will suffice.
• Performance expectations: The benefits of a cloud-based WAN depend on the underlying access network. If remote workers rely on poor-quality or insecure connections, WAN performance won’t improve. Where possible, ensure sites and key users are connected via leased line broadband, point-to-point leased line, or wireless leased lines to realise the benefits fully.

Migration checklist

1. Identify key SaaS apps and test performance improvements in a pilot.
2. Confirm compatibility with your identity provider and endpoint devices.
3. Choose between self-managed or fully managed WAN service.
4. Evaluate need for global backbone vs local/regional performance.
5. Review access types (broadband, fibre, LTE) and upgrade key sites if needed.
6. Map policies for user groups and remote access before rollout.
7. Define success metrics (e.g. faster app performance, reduced login issues).

Cloud-based WAN providers

Businesses can either manage their cloud-based WANs or outsource the entire operation to a third party.

This gives rise to two main types of providers, each with its strengths and limitations:

Global platform vendors

These vendors build and operate the cloud-based WAN platforms themselves, including the global private backbone, software-defined networking, and integrated security stack.

Most are headquartered outside the UK but offer local support through regional teams, channel partners, or self-serve platforms.

What’s offered:

• Full infrastructure as a service (SD-WAN, SASE, ZTNA, FWaaS)
• A centralised dashboard for configuration, visibility, and policy control
• Support documentation and onboarding tools

What’s not offered:

• Hands-on support during onboarding and operation
• Fully managed day-to-day operation
• Tailored WAN solutions using multiple platforms or hybrid models

Best for businesses that:

• Have internal IT capacity and networking expertise
• Prefer direct control over configuration and policy
• Are comfortable with self-managing network rollout and troubleshooting
• Want a cost-effective, scalable solution with global reach

Leading cloud-based WAN vendors

Here are three of the best platform vendors offering their services in the UK:

• Cato Networks: Headquartered in Israel, with a strong UK presence. Known for combining SD-WAN, SASE, ZTNA, and a global backbone into a single, integrated service.
• Aryaka: US-based, with its own global Layer 2 network. Offers managed SD-WAN and application-aware routing over a private backbone.
• Cloudflare Magic WAN: Built on Cloudflare’s massive global network (300+ cities, including London, Manchester and Edinburgh). Focuses on performance, security, and Zero Trust networking.

Managed service providers (MSPs)

These UK-based providers manage cloud-based WAN deployments on behalf of businesses, either by partnering with global platform vendors or bundling additional services around them.

They typically act as long-term partners, handling technical rollout, day-to-day management, monitoring, and local support. This is especially valuable for organisations that don’t have the in-house capacity to operate a WAN themselves.

What’s offered:

• End-to-end deployment, monitoring and support
• Customised solutions that may span multiple vendors and platforms
• Optional extras like LAN, VoIP, endpoint protection, and industry-specific cybersecurity compliance tools

Best for businesses that:

• Want to outsource WAN management fully
• Lack internal networking expertise or time
• Operate in regulated sectors with strict compliance requirements
• Prefer a local, accountable partner

Leading UK-based managed service providers

Here are three of the best managed service providers offering cloud-based WANs to UK businesses:

• Evolving Networks: UK-born provider offering SD-WAN-as-a-Service with a strong focus on bonded multi-line connectivity, failover, and WAN resilience. Offers complete WAN management and internet connectivity in one.
• Cloud Gateway: Specialises in secure hybrid cloud and WAN connectivity, with deep expertise in public sector, finance, and healthcare. Known for flexible WAN overlays and strong focus on UK compliance.
• Stream Networks: A UK managed services provider offering SD-WAN, leased lines, and cloud connectivity. Partners with Juniper to deliver secure and scalable managed WAN solutions with value-added services.

Cloud-based WANs – FAQs

Our business networking experts answer commonly asked questions regarding cloud-based WAN solutions for businesses:

What is the difference between a cloud-based WAN and SD-WAN?

Cloud-based WAN is an all-in-one, cloud-delivered network service that includes SD-WAN plus integrated security, orchestration, and cloud optimisation. SD-WAN is just one component, often self-managed and hardware-dependent.

How does a Cloud-based WAN improve business agility?

Cloud-based WANs enable businesses to easily connect or disconnect users, sites, and cloud services from a dashboard in minutes, not weeks, without the need for physical setups or complex configurations. Scaling, routing, and security policy changes are instant and centralised.

What industries benefit the most from cloud-based WANs?

Any business that leans heavily on cloud applications and remote or hybrid workers will greatly benefit from a cloud-based WAN. Naturally, this tends to be tech companies and startups working on digital solutions and services across a range of industries.

Is cloud-based WAN more secure than traditional WANs?

It can be, but it depends on how each is implemented. Cloud-based WANs include built-in security like Zero Trust and firewalling, which simplifies protection. Traditional WANs can be secure too, but often require more manual setup and separate tools.

What’s the role of zero trust security in cloud-based WANs?

Zero Trust is core to cloud-based WANs. It ensures users and devices must authenticate continuously and only get access to specific resources. This replaces the old model of trusting anything inside the network perimeter, and is becoming essential in remote-first, cloud-heavy environments.

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