SD-LAN (software-defined local area networking) is an application-driven architecture that decouples hardware and software in Wi-Fi networks.
The company said it builds on the principles of software-defined networking (SDN) and software-defined wide-area networking (SD-WAN).
“The SD-LAN service uses anonymised location analytics to regulate the density of people in a given floorplan, triggering an automatic alert when that number is reached and a new Bluetooth or Wi-Fi device enters the premises,” said Luke Clifton, Group Executive, Macquarie Telecom.
“The application of this technology is incredible for office managers balancing a hybrid workforce, restaurants and hospitality venues with limits on numbers, and airports once they return to increased levels of travellers. Limits can be set, adjusted, and fed to operational teams in minutes.”
Macquarie is investing $3.9 million in personnel, operations, and research and development (R&D) over the next five years to build out the service.
The Australian telco has trialled the SD-LAN service with an Australian tyre and auto repairs company and an ASX-listed dental company, with both organisations now signed up for a wider rollout.
Macquarie has leveraged the Juniper Networks-owned Mist Platform to develop its SD-LAN service, using AI and machine learning to identify all the data points in a network.
It supports Macquarie’s SD-WAN service, which it pioneered in Australia in 2017. The company said the VeloCloud-powered SD-WAN can integrate to Mist via VMware-owned network analytics company Nyansa.
“We are investing in technologies and partnerships that enable Australian businesses to adapt to a new and fast-changing norm,” added Clifton.
“SD-LAN is a customer-first architecture that will help companies automate and stay at the forefront of the technology they need. The service will be fully managed and supported by our dedicated customer support team here in Australia.”
