This spring, a move from the Denver suburbs to the Colorado Rockies presented new challenges for remote workers, highlighting the critical role of technology in maintaining connectivity.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the networking industry has seen a surge in interest, particularly in software-defined wide-area networking (SD-WAN). This technology has evolved from a niche solution to a necessity for many, including those living in rural areas.
Challenges of Rural Connectivity
The transition to a high-altitude lifestyle revealed significant limitations in available internet services. The fastest wired option was a DSL connection from CenturyLink, which promised up to 20 Mbps down and 1.5 Mbps up. This starkly contrasted with the gigabit fiber connection previously enjoyed, underscoring the digital divide that persists in many rural communities.
Fortunately, alternatives like 5G and Starlink have emerged, each offering unique benefits and drawbacks. T-Mobile’s 5G service provided near-gigabit download speeds, while Starlink offered between 100 and 400 Mbps, but both services were plagued by dropped connections, particularly during work hours.
Leveraging SD-WAN for Improved Reliability
To address these connectivity issues, the author implemented an SD-WAN solution using a Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine SE. This device supports multi-WAN capabilities and policy-based routing, allowing for seamless failover between the two internet connections. The setup was straightforward, enabling the prioritization of the faster 5G link while maintaining the satellite connection as a backup.
Despite initial doubts about the necessity of Starlink, the SD-WAN configuration proved effective. Notifications of automatic failover between T-Mobile and Starlink indicated that the system functioned reliably, maintaining uninterrupted service during outages.
Cost and Performance Considerations
While the SD-WAN setup improved connectivity, it came at a cost. The combined monthly expense for T-Mobile and Starlink was approximately $125, a significant increase compared to previous internet costs. Additionally, latency issues persisted, with ranges between 15 ms and 80 ms, which could impact activities like online gaming.
Despite these challenges, the author noted that ongoing efforts to expand fiber connectivity in rural areas could soon provide a more stable and cost-effective solution. Until then, SD-WAN remains a valuable tool for those navigating the complexities of remote work in less connected regions.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
Original source: theregister.com
