Path Selection criteria in SD-WAN typically includes which of the following?

• A. Latency, Jitter, Packet Loss, Bandwidth, CSP Policies, and SLA Requirements
• B. Latency and Bandwidth only
• C. Packet Loss and Jitter only
• D. Bandwidth and CSP Policies only

Answer: (A)

Path selection in SD-WAN uses a blend of performance metrics and policy constraints to choose the best path for each flow. Latency and jitter measure how quickly and predictably packets arrive; lower latency and stable timing are crucial for interactive and real-time apps, so paths with better latency and less jitter are favored. Packet loss directly reduces usable throughput and can cause retransmissions, so paths with minimal loss are preferred. Bandwidth ensures there is enough capacity on the chosen path to meet an application's throughput needs and avoid congestion.

Beyond pure performance, CSP policies shape routing decisions to align with cloud and service-provider preferences, directing traffic to specific cloud regions or providers as required by architecture, cost, or security considerations. SLA requirements formalize expected performance targets, so paths that meet or exceed those targets are selected to satisfy business agreements.

Together, these criteria enable SD-WAN to dynamically steer traffic toward the most suitable path, balancing user experience, reliability, and organizational policies. Limiting path selection to only two metrics would miss critical factors like jitter, CSP considerations, and SLAs, which is why the comprehensive set is the best choice.