In most MPLS networks, on-premises network equipment sits at the center of a hub-and-spoke configuration connected to other locations. Each needs an individual connection to the hub for access to both the internal network and the internet. By contrast, every location in an SD-WAN can connect directly to the internet and also uses it to reach other network resources. Without the need to backhaul traffic through a central location, network performance can improve significantly — benefiting employees using web-based apps, as well as customers who connect to your WiFi network to access the internet. This architecture can also eliminate the expense of leasing individual MPLS connections for each branch. The more locations you have, the greater the cost savings. Plus, an SD-WAN creates opportunities to directly connect with cloud service providers that can be less expensive than running your own data center.