In the realm of business connectivity, the choice between traditional Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) and the modern Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) often boils down to more than just technical capabilities. A significant factor influencing this decision is the Service Level Agreement (SLA), a contractual commitment outlining the quality of service and performance benchmarks. However, as many businesses delve into the connectivity SLA rabbit hole, they often find themselves questioning the true value of these agreements.
The SLA Conundrum | Uptime, Repair Metrics, & the Price Tag
Businesses investing in connectivity solutions, particularly MPLS, are enticed by the promise of robust SLAs. These agreements typically include targets for uptime and repair metrics, with commitments such as 99% uptime or resolving outages within a specified timeframe, often within 4 hours.
Yet, the allure of these commitments comes at a hefty cost—nearly double, if not more, compared to a standard broadband connection. The expectation is that the premium price ensures a higher level of service reliability and quicker issue resolution, making it a worthwhile investment for mission-critical operations.
The Harsh Reality | SLA Services vs. Standard Broadband
However, the practical experience of businesses often reveals a stark contrast between the promised SLA and the actual service received. Despite the premium price tag, SLA services are frequently repaired within the same timeframe as their more affordable standard broadband counterparts.
In essence, businesses find themselves spending twice as much for an SLA service, gaining only a marginal improvement in service recovery time. The touted advantages of SLAs often seem elusive, leading to a fundamental question: Are businesses truly getting what they pay for?
Statistical Wisdom | Broadband Redundancy vs. Single SLA
Statistics offer a compelling argument against relying solely on a single provider's SLA. The statistical probability of network disruptions, irrespective of the provider, prompts businesses to consider alternative strategies. Surprisingly, it's statistically more reliable to procure two separate broadband services from different providers than to depend on an SLA from a single provider.
This revelation challenges the traditional mindset that investing more in a single, high-priced SLA service guarantees superior connectivity. Instead, businesses are encouraged to explore redundancy through multiple broadband providers, achieving comparable or even superior reliability at a fraction of the cost.
Connectivity SLAs | A Rabbit Hole of Uncertain Returns
As businesses navigate the connectivity SLA rabbit hole, it becomes evident that the path is not as straightforward as it may seem. The high cost of SLA services, coupled with the minimal returns in terms of actual service improvement, prompts a reevaluation of traditional connectivity strategies.
Wrapping up, businesses should approach connectivity decisions with a discerning eye, weighing the practical benefits against the perceived advantages of SLAs. The statistical evidence supports the idea that redundancy through multiple broadband providers may offer a more cost-effective and reliable solution in the ever-evolving landscape of business connectivity.
Note: Connectivity SLAs are a rabbit hole, and understanding the nuances is crucial for informed decision-making.
Ronald Bartels ensures that Internet inhabiting things are connected reliably online at Fusion Broadband South Africa - the leading specialized SD-WAN provider in South Africa. Learn more about the best SD-WAN provider in the world! 👉 Contact Fusion ✈️
