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Chapter 2: Architecture Design

Multi-Cloud Architecture with GCP Vertex AI and Azure SASE

Chapter Overview

This chapter presents the complete architectural design for integrating GCP Vertex AI, Azure SASE, and Cisco SD-WAN Cloud OnRamp into a unified enterprise multi-cloud platform. It covers strategic design decisions, network architecture, security design, and the implementation roadmap.

Architecture Model: DIA-based SD-WAN with cloud-native services integration

What You'll Learn

  • Multi-cloud connectivity strategies and design patterns
  • GCP Vertex AI integration architecture for WxCC analytics
  • Azure SASE design for Office 365 and global access
  • SD-WAN Cloud OnRamp architectural principles
  • Security architecture across cloud platforms
  • Phased implementation roadmap

Key Architectural Decisions

Decision Implementation Approach
Cloud Connectivity DIA-first model with internet-based cloud access
GCP Integration Cloud-to-cloud connectivity (no dedicated circuits)
Azure Integration ExpressRoute for O365 + Virtual WAN for SD-WAN
Internet Security Umbrella SASE for DIA breakout
Network Model Zero-trust with identity-based access

Chapter Contents

2.1 Executive Summary

High-level architectural overview, business objectives, and key design principles.

2.2 Current Architecture Analysis

Assessment of existing infrastructure, capabilities, and constraints.

2.3 GCP Integration Design

GCP Vertex AI connectivity architecture, Cloud Interconnect design, and BGP routing strategy.

2.4 Azure SASE Integration

Azure SASE architecture for secure access, ExpressRoute peering, and Virtual WAN design.

2.5 Multi-Cloud Network Architecture

End-to-end network design across GCP, Azure, and on-premises infrastructure.

2.6 SD-WAN Cloud OnRamp Design

Cloud OnRamp architecture for SaaS, IaaS, and SASE integration patterns.

2.7 Security Architecture

Comprehensive security design including zero-trust principles, segmentation, and threat protection.

2.8 Implementation Roadmap

Phased implementation plan with milestones, dependencies, and risk mitigation strategies.

Architecture Principles

Cloud-Native Services First

Leverage purpose-built cloud services (GCP CCAI, Azure Virtual WAN) instead of custom DIY solutions.

DIA-First Connectivity

Optimize for local internet breakout at branch sites with cloud-direct paths.

Zero Trust Security

Implement identity-based access controls using ISE SGT, Azure AD, and Duo MFA.

Cost Optimization

Eliminate traffic hair-pinning through on-premise hubs; direct cloud access.

Operational Simplicity

Unified management via SD-WAN vManage combined with cloud-native consoles.

Prerequisites for This Chapter

  • Completed: Chapter 1 (Overview & Introduction)
  • Technical Knowledge: Network architecture, cloud services (GCP, Azure), SD-WAN concepts
  • Access: Architectural diagrams and design documentation
  • Time Investment: Approximately 3-4 hours to complete this chapter

Architecture Scope

Infrastructure Coverage:

  • 19 SD-WAN Sites: 6 hub sites + 13 branch locations
  • Regions: APAC (India), EMEA (London, Frankfurt), Americas (NJ, Dallas, Chicago)
  • Cloud Platforms: GCP (Mumbai region), Azure (3 regions with ExpressRoute)
  • Users: 175 contact center agents + corporate workforce

Next Steps

After completing this chapter:

This chapter provides the architectural foundation for all subsequent implementation chapters.