Is WAN optimization gear a cop-out?

While stories of WAN optimization benefits abound, some IT watchers feel the technology is a poor substitute for effective policy and network management. “If resources are aligned with usage needs what use is there for WAN optimization?” questions one member of the Network World Community. The reader adds, “IT managers are seduced into buying this crap with all it’s filtering, shaping and whatnot, features that are also available on many switches and routers. I think it’s just adding fog to a mine-laden field.” What do you think? Is WAN optimization technology creating a generation of “lazy” network managers? Join the discussion