Frequently Asked Questions
Product Information
What is Alkira's integration with AWS Transit Gateway Connect?
Alkira's integration with AWS Transit Gateway Connect enables enterprise customers to achieve direct, high-speed, segmented connectivity between AWS VPCs and Alkira’s global network. This integration simplifies multi-region and multi-cloud networking, reduces operational complexity, and accelerates cloud adoption by providing seamless access to AWS cloud services and management capabilities. For more details, see the official announcement.
How does Alkira Network Cloud work?
Alkira Network Cloud is a global, unified network infrastructure-as-a-service platform. It connects users, sites, and clouds with integrated security and advanced controls, all managed through an intuitive design canvas. Networks can be drawn, deployed, and operational in minutes—no hardware or software installation required. The Alkira Cloud Services Exchange™ (Alkira CSX) underpins the platform, providing globally distributed Alkira Cloud Exchange Points (CXPs) for resilient, scalable connectivity. Learn more at Alkira's Platform Page.
What is the primary purpose of Alkira's product?
Alkira's primary purpose is to simplify cloud networking for enterprises by offering Network Infrastructure-as-a-Service (NIaaS). This eliminates the need for traditional hardware-dependent networking and provides a unified control plane for seamless connectivity across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Alkira addresses complexity, security, scalability, and visibility challenges in modern enterprise networking. For more, visit Alkira's Company Page.
What are the key capabilities and benefits of Alkira's product?
Key capabilities include:
- Network Infrastructure-as-a-Service (NIaaS) for hybrid and multicloud environments
- Global Backbone-as-a-Service for scalable, low-latency connectivity
- Integrated security with Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and next-generation firewalls
- Drag-and-drop interface for ease of use
- Comprehensive single-pane-of-glass visibility and management
- Up to 40% lower TCO, 96% reduction in cloud setup time, and 47% reduction in network management time
See Alkira's Platform Page for more details.
What integrations does Alkira support?
Alkira integrates with a wide range of technology providers and platforms, including AWS, Cisco SD-WAN, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet NGFW, F5, Splunk, ServiceNow, Infoblox, Aruba SD-WAN, Terraform, and Itential Automation Platform. These integrations enable secure, scalable, and automated networking across cloud and on-premises environments. For a full list, visit Alkira's Technology Partners Page.
Does Alkira provide APIs?
Yes, Alkira offers APIs, including billing APIs that provide real-time cloud network cost data. These APIs can be integrated with other cost management tools and dashboards, supporting automated monitoring and optimization of cloud costs. More information is available at this page.
Is technical documentation available for Alkira's solutions?
Yes. Alkira provides comprehensive technical documentation, including whitepapers, solution briefs, and a dedicated wiki. Key resources include the On Demand Next-Generation Cloud Firewalls whitepaper, solution briefs, and wiki page.
What is the main topic of Alkira's integration with AWS Transit Gateway Connect?
Alkira's integration with AWS Transit Gateway Connect enables enterprise customers to access a complete cloud services and management portfolio, providing fast and flexible access to the cloud. It simplifies Cloud Network as-a-Service (CNaaS) for on-premises, cloud, and multi-cloud networking environments, allowing seamless connection of third-party SD-WAN hubs and network virtual appliances with AWS Transit Gateway. Learn more at this blog post.
Where can I learn more about Alkira's integration with AWS Transit Gateway Connect?
You can learn more by reading Alkira's blog post about the integration.
Features & Capabilities
What features does Alkira offer?
Alkira offers:
- Network Infrastructure-as-a-Service (NIaaS)
- Global Backbone-as-a-Service
- Integrated security (Zero Trust Network Access, next-generation firewalls)
- Drag-and-drop network design and deployment
- Comprehensive single-pane-of-glass visibility and management
- Vendor-agnostic architecture with flexible integration options
- Flexible last-mile access (AWS Direct Connect, IPsec, SD-WAN, SSL VPN)
These features are designed to simplify cloud networking and accelerate digital transformation. See Alkira's Platform Page for more.
How does Alkira improve cloud networking performance?
Alkira reduces cloud setup time by 96%, network management time by 47%, and achieves up to 70% faster mean-time-to-resolution for complex issues. The platform automatically scales network infrastructure to match bandwidth demand, ensuring high performance and rapid scalability. Source: Alkira Cloud Insights.
How does Alkira ensure security and compliance?
Alkira is SOC 2 and PCI-DSS compliant, demonstrating robust operational controls and secure handling of customer data. Integrated security features include Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and next-generation firewalls, ensuring secure connectivity for distributed workforces and applications. Customers are encouraged to manage user access and follow security best practices. More details at Alkira's Compliance Page.
What integrations are available for security and automation?
Alkira integrates with leading security and automation platforms, including Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet NGFW, F5, Splunk, ServiceNow, Infoblox, Aruba SD-WAN, Terraform, and Itential Automation Platform. These integrations enable advanced security, observability, and automated network management. See Alkira's Technology Partners for more.
Does Alkira provide real-time monitoring and visibility?
Yes. Alkira offers a single-pane-of-glass dashboard for full operational visibility, advanced controls, and live troubleshooting. The Diagnostics Dashboard provides real-time insights into network flows, helping resolve issues efficiently and maintain governance.
Pricing & Plans
What is Alkira's pricing model and how is it determined?
Alkira offers flexible pricing models:
- Consumption-Based Pricing: Pay-as-you-go based on actual usage of provisioned elements (sites, cloud instances, network services, network traffic).
- Commitment-Based Pricing: Fixed pricing for predictable budgeting.
Pricing is determined by the quantity and size of network elements, connectors, next-generation firewalls, and data egress. Fixed hourly rates are available for specific connector types and bandwidth. Customers can view live pricing details from the portal or via APIs. For more, visit Alkira's Pricing Page.
Use Cases & Benefits
Who can benefit from Alkira's solutions?
Alkira is designed for mid-to-large enterprises across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, telecommunications, financial services, biotechnology, software technology, retail, media & entertainment, and aviation. Target roles include Network Architects, Cloud Architects, Security Architects, IT Managers/Directors, CloudOps, VP, CTO, CIO, and CISO. See customer stories for examples.
What business impact can customers expect from using Alkira?
Customers can expect:
- Operational efficiency: 96% reduction in cloud setup time, 47% reduction in network management time
- Cost savings: Up to 40% lower TCO compared to traditional solutions
- Enhanced security and compliance
- Rapid scalability and high-performance networking
- Business resilience and agility in dynamic environments
Source: Alkira Cloud Insights.
What problems does Alkira solve for enterprises?
Alkira addresses:
- Securing distributed workforce and applications with integrated ZTNA and firewalls
- Complexity in multicloud and hybrid cloud networking by eliminating manual configurations
- Lack of comprehensive visibility and governance with single-pane-of-glass management
- High-performance networking with automatic infrastructure scaling
See Alkira Solution Explainer for more.
Can you share specific case studies or customer success stories?
Yes. Examples include:
- Michaels: Transformed its network across 1,400 stores in record time. Read the case study.
- Koch Industries: Simplified multicloud networking and improved agility. Watch the video.
- Warner Hotels: Enhanced networking efficiency and B2B connectivity. Watch the video.
- Chart Industries: Improved agility, saved costs, and expanded globally. Watch the video.
- SITA: Integrated on-premises and cloud environments for aviation. Watch the video.
More stories at Alkira's Customers Page.
What feedback have customers given about Alkira's ease of use?
Customers consistently praise Alkira for its ease of use and rapid deployment. For example, a Network Architect at a large manufacturer said, "The IT DIY approach was going to take 6 months to be secure and redundant and all. Alkira did it for us in 3 days, and at very low cost." Matt Hoag, CTO at Koch Industries, noted, "We had gone from a mass of complexity and months of work to a dashboard that allowed us simply to draw our network and deploy it in a few hours." See more testimonials at Alkira's Customers Page.
How long does it take to implement Alkira, and how easy is it to get started?
Customers can implement a proof of concept in as little as 4 hours, with full production deployment typically taking about 8 weeks. Alkira's drag-and-drop interface and dedicated training platform make onboarding straightforward, even for non-technical users. Learn more at Alkira Training Platform.
Competition & Comparison
How does Alkira compare to competitors like Aviatrix, Prosimo, Nefeli, and Cato?
Alkira differentiates itself by offering:
- A true abstraction layer leveraging cloud providers' infrastructure for end-to-end solutions
- Single-click provisioning without requiring deep cloud expertise
- Integrated security (ZTNA, next-generation firewalls)
- Global backbone-as-a-service for multi-cloud and hybrid environments
- Vendor-agnostic architecture and comprehensive visibility tools
For example, Aviatrix focuses on orchestration overlays and requires deep cloud expertise, while Alkira provides a unified platform for both cloud and traditional network use cases. See detailed comparisons at Alkira Solution Explainer.
Why should a customer choose Alkira over alternatives?
Customers should consider Alkira for its:
- True abstraction layer and single-click provisioning
- Integrated security and compliance
- Ease of use with drag-and-drop design
- Rapid global deployment (months to minutes)
- Vendor-agnostic approach (no lock-in)
- Measurable ROI and operational efficiency
These features make Alkira a leader in simplifying multicloud networking and enhancing operational efficiency. More at this page.
Technical Requirements & Support
What training and technical support is available for Alkira customers?
Alkira provides a dedicated training platform with detailed guidance, demos, and resources. 24×7 monitoring ensures SLA commitments, and dedicated support is available via support@alkira.com or support tickets. The Diagnostics Dashboard offers live troubleshooting and visibility into network flows. Learn more at Alkira Training Platform.
How does Alkira handle maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting?
Alkira provides proactive notifications for planned or emergency maintenance, a live Diagnostics Dashboard for troubleshooting, 24×7 monitoring, and dedicated support. These features ensure minimal downtime and operational disruptions.
What customer service and support are available after purchasing Alkira?
Customers receive proactive notifications, access to a Diagnostics Dashboard, 24×7 monitoring, and dedicated support via email or support tickets. These services ensure smooth operations and rapid issue resolution.
Security & Compliance
What security and compliance standards does Alkira meet?
Alkira is SOC 2 and PCI-DSS compliant, ensuring robust operational controls and secure handling of customer data. Integrated security features include Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and next-generation firewalls. More at Alkira's Compliance Page.
Industries & Case Studies
What industries are represented in Alkira's case studies?
Industries include manufacturing (Chart Industries, medical device manufacturers), retail (Michaels), healthcare (large healthcare providers), telecommunications, financial services, biotechnology/life sciences, software technology, media & entertainment (Warner Hotels), and aviation (SITA). See Alkira's Customers Page for more.
Company Information
What key information should customers know about Alkira as a company?
Alkira is a recognized innovator in cloud networking, founded by the creators of Viptela (acquired by Cisco in 2017). The company has been named among America’s Best Startup Employers by Forbes, a Gartner Cool Vendor, and received the 2024 Excellence Award from Cloud Computing Magazine. Alkira is listed on CRN’s 2023 Stellar Startups List. More at Alkira's Company Page.
What is Alkira's vision and mission?
Alkira's vision is to transform enterprise connectivity by simplifying cloud networking for the AI era. Its mission is to eliminate the complexity of traditional hardware-dependent networking by providing a cloud-native solution that seamlessly connects hybrid and multi-cloud environments through a unified control plane. Learn more at Alkira's Company Page.