Choosing WAN providers: Key questions to ask

There are many options when trying to build a robust WAN to connect a growing number of branch offices. Typically, IT decision-makers settle on a particular type of service for their WAN and then evaluate the differences among their short list of carriers. And even though MPLS, Ethernet, or frame-relay services may look similar from carrier to carrier, there are some key areas that differentiate them -- beyond just pricing.

When evaluating carrier services for the WAN, it's imperative to ask some key questions regarding customer service, service-level agreements, global coverage, management and monitoring capabilities, and underlying technologies. Make sure these questions are on your checklist:

Customer

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service

Service-level agreements

Global coverage

Management and monitoring

Underlying technology

About the author: Robin Gareiss is Executive Vice President and Senior Founding Partner for Nemertes Research, where she oversees research projects and direction, conducts strategic seminars, develops cost models, and advises leading enterprises, vendors, and carriers. For the past 17 years, Robin Gareiss has worked closely with hundreds of senior IT executives, analyzing their use of technology and capturing best practices. Robin is a widely recognized expert in voice over IP, convergence, collaboration, carrier services, IP networking, and branch-office technologies.

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