EML Selection Guide for Surveillance-Grade SD-WAN Devices

Selecting the right EML for surveillance-grade SD-WAN devices requires evaluating device performance, security capabilities, centralized management, and deployment scale.

Key Considerations for EM

L Selection1. Device Performance and Throughput Surveillance-grade SD-WAN devices must handle high-bandwidth video streams and low-latency traffic. Evaluate devices based on: IPsec VPN throughput and SSL inspection capacity (Fortinet branch and hub devices provide detailed metrics for these)Concurrent session handling for multiple video feedsQoS and traffic prioritization to ensure real-time video delivery 2.

Security Features Surveillance networks require robust security to protect sensitive video data: Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) with intrusion prevention, malware protection, and URL filtering (Cisco Security Cloud Control integration supports these features)WAN interface protection and end-to-end zone-based firewalls (HPE Aruba EdgeConnect)TLS/SSL decryption and inspection for encrypted video streamsCentralized threat analytics via Security Cloud Control or FortiAnalyzer for monitoring and logging 3.

Centralized Management and Orchestration Efficient EM

L deployment relies on centralized management platforms: Cisco SD-WAN Manager integrated with Security Cloud Control for policy orchestration and analyticsFortiManager and FortiAnalyzer for device provisioning, configuration, and monitoringHPE Aruba SD-WAN Orchestrator for consistent security policy deployment across multiple sites 4. Deployment Flexibility Consider the network topology and connectivity options: Branch vs. hub devices: select based on site size and traffic loadConnectivity options: DSL, PoE, WiFi, cellular (3G/4G/5G) for remote surveillance sitesVirtual and cloud support: AWS, Azure, VMware compatibility for hybrid deployments 5.

Licensing and EML Tiers

Choose EM

L tiers that match throughput, security, and analytics requirementsEnsure licenses cover advanced inspection, malware protection, and intrusion preventionFor Fortinet, the FortiAI Assistant Subscription and FortiCare Elite contracts may be required for full functionality 6.

Flow and Qo

S Management Surveillance traffic requires predictable performance: Devices like Prisma SD-WAN ION classify flows, apply QoS policies, and re-queue traffic based on application typeEnsure the EML supports dynamic path selection and policy-based routing to optimize video delivery 7.

Professional Services and Training

Consider vendor-provided deployment guides, QuickStart services, and training for SD-WAN administratorsMSSP-focused deployment workflows (Fortinet) recommend using Model Devices for consistent configuration and ZTP/LTP support Summary RecommendationFor surveillance-grade SD-WAN deployments: Select devices with high throughput, robust NGFW capabilities, and advanced QoS supportUse centralized management platforms (Cisco Security Cloud Control, FortiManager, or Aruba Orchestrator) for policy orchestration and analyticsChoose EML tiers that include advanced security, inspection, and logging featuresEnsure deployment flexibility for branch, hub, and cloud integrationLeverage professional services and training to optimize configuration and monitoring By aligning device performance, security, and centralized management with the EML tier, organizations can ensure reliable, secure, and high-performance SD-WAN for surveillance applications.