Preserving the WAN: Leveraging Hexnode DAFS for High-Volume Payload Distribution

1. Strategic Objective

This framework defines a controlled method for distributing high-volume enterprise payloads exceeding 100 GB across geographically distributed branch offices. The core goal is to enable large-scale application and patch delivery while preventing WAN congestion, ISP throttling, and productivity loss.

By shifting bulk data movement from centralized cloud delivery to local, site-based infrastructure, organizations can maintain network integrity even during intensive rollout cycles.

2. Distributed Apps and Files Server (DAFS)

DAFS functions as a local content distribution layer, reducing repeated cloud downloads and confining heavy traffic to the branch LAN.

The architecture is engineered for cross-platform efficiency, providing native support for both Windows and macOS environments to ensure seamless payload distribution across diverse fleets.

2.1 DAFS Anchor Management

To eliminate WAN saturation during large transfers, the architecture introduces DAFS Anchor Devices.

Anchor Device Concept

Anchor Devices are high-capacity machines deployed within a physical office location and configured to act as local distribution servers. These devices operate in Docker-based environments and serve content to nearby endpoints over the LAN.

Anchor Provisioning and Role

• Anchor Selection Administrators designate high-performance Windows or macOS systems within a defined Site to host the DAFS service.
• Single Cloud Fetch, Local Fan-Out After provisioning through the Hexnode platform, the Anchor downloads enterprise applications, scripts, or updates from the cloud only once. All other devices within the same Site retrieve the payload locally from the Anchor, avoiding repeated external downloads.
• Cross-Platform Distribution Support DAFS Anchors support:
  • Windows packages: MSI, EXE, MSIX
  • macOS packages: PKG, DMG
  • Platform scripts for automation and configuration

This ensures a consistent delivery mechanism across heterogeneous device fleets.

2.2 Bandwidth-Aware Scheduling

Large payload distribution introduces risk when executed during peak business hours. DAFS incorporates scheduling controls to ensure predictable and non-disruptive transfers.

Maintenance Window Alignment

• Anchors synchronize with the primary repository only during Maintenance Hours or Outside Business Hours.
• This prevents the initial 100 GB or larger pull from competing with active user traffic.

Download Control and Fail-Safe Behavior

• Source Preference Enforcement Policies prioritize the local Anchor as the primary download source.
• Cloud Fallback Restrictions Administrators can explicitly block fallback to cloud sources if the Anchor is unavailable, preventing accidental WAN overload from direct device-to-cloud downloads.

Staggered Global Synchronization

• Wave-Based Rollouts By offsetting sync schedules across different Sites, IT teams can stagger large downloads geographically.
• This approach smooths aggregate bandwidth consumption across the enterprise and avoids simultaneous global spikes.

3. Patch Orchestration for Heavy Payloads

Patch delivery involving large binaries demands validation before mass deployment. This module defines a ring-based governance model aligned with DAFS-based distribution.

3.1 Multi-Ring Update Governance

Patch orchestration is segmented into progressive deployment rings to reduce operational risk.

Ring 1: Canary Ring

• Small group of non-critical devices
• Validates:
  • Installation reliability
  • DAFS Anchor responsiveness
  • Early detection of conflicts or performance bottlenecks

Ring 2: Early Adopter Ring

• Expanded set of power users across multiple Sites
• Tests:
  • Anchor effectiveness across different LAN conditions
  • Hardware and topology variance
  • Cross-site distribution consistency

Ring 3: Stable Ring

• Broad workforce deployment
• Relies entirely on validated local Anchors for payload delivery
• Ensures that large-scale patch rollouts occur without measurable WAN impact

4. Outcome and Operational Impact

Through DAFS-driven orchestration and ring-based governance:

• Large OS updates and third-party patches are delivered with network isolation
• Branch internet links remain stable during terabyte-scale rollouts
• IT teams retain deterministic control over bandwidth, timing, and propagation

This architecture enables high-volume patch and application delivery at enterprise scale, without sacrificing network performance or business continuity.