Network modernization through SD-WAN transformation
A global packaging leader with 340+ branches across 30 countries embarked on a strategic initiative to modernize its network infrastructure. As one of the world's largest paper and packaging companies, the organization recognized the need to shift from costly, complex legacy MPLS networks to a scalable, secure SD-WAN model. The company's long-term vision centered on operational excellence, enhanced security and sustainable cost optimization.
The Challenge
The organization faced mounting operational costs and complexity from its legacy MPLS network infrastructure, which strained IT resources and created security vulnerabilities across its global footprint. Manual, non-application-aware traffic control and multiple edge device types were driving up administrative overhead and creating inconsistencies in network performance across geographies.
To meet evolving business needs while maintaining security standards, there was a critical need to:
- Reduce dependency on expensive MPLS circuits and centralized infrastructure
- Address operational inefficiencies stemming from manual traffic management
- Mitigate elevated risks from OT equipment exposed to IT threat vectors
- Enable modern security and productivity technologies across all locations
The client sought to transform its global network operations by partnering with HCLTech to leverage SD-WAN technology and deliver a unified, secure network experience across the enterprise. The immediate objective was to significantly reduce network administration overhead while improving resiliency and security posture.
The Solution
Following a comprehensive RFP selection process that included the packaging company's incumbent vendor, the customer selected HCLTech and Fortinet to design, test and implement a modernized, consolidated SD-WAN solution across all regions.
HCLTech proposed a unified SD-WAN solution powered by the Fortinet Security Fabric framework. Designed for global scale, the solution was validated through rigorous analysis of network performance data and security requirements. An agile methodology was adopted to enable phased deployment across more than 340 branches in 30 countries.
The solution included:
- Unified SD-WAN deployment across all global sites, replacing legacy MPLS circuits with multiple connection types.
- Integrated security fabric to address IT/OT convergence risks and protect against modern threats.
- Automated traffic management with application-aware routing to optimize performance.
- Built-in redundancy with automated failover and concurrency over multiple connection types.
- Centralized orchestration to simplify control and reduce management complexity
The solution was designed to be highly scalable and aligned with the client's digital transformation roadmap, providing a foundation for future technologies, including SASE and AI-driven automation.
The Impact
- Significant cost reduction through elimination of expensive MPLS circuits and consolidated edge devices.
- Reduced overhead for network administration, troubleshooting and lifecycle management.
- Enhanced security posture with unified threat protection across IT and OT environments.
- Improved resiliency with automated failover and concurrent connections, ensuring business continuity.
- Foundation for innovation enabling adoption of SASE, AI-driven automation and other future-forward technologies.
Building on this successful transformation, the modernized SD-WAN infrastructure positions the packaging company to sharpen its competitive advantage for years to come. The unified platform enables continuous innovation while maintaining robust security and operational efficiency across their global operations.
For more information, visit the Fortinet and HCLTech partnership page.
