We’re continuously inspired by how our customers harness technology to solve complex problems, streamline operations, and open new possibilities. BBVA Argentina is an incredible example of all three, pursuing a bold vision for automation and secure, software-defined networking across its entire environment. And they’ve made remarkable progress.
We sat down with Oscar Ledesma, Global Network Architect at BBVA, to discuss his groundbreaking journey from early digital transformation ambitions to today’s sophisticated, multi-domain network architecture.
Oscar, thanks for joining us. Let’s start at the beginning. Back in 2017, what was the vision for BBVA, and why was change necessary?
We realized that we had to transform ourselves through technology, to stay competitive. So you could say productivity was the biggest driver. Here in Argentina, we felt strongly that an automated end-to-end network could lead us to faster changes, less errors and more productive teams.
Interesting. So why automation first? How did you start making that vision real?
Oscar: We wanted a network that wasn’t just ‘up and running’ but able to adapt quickly, totally built for change.
How did you go about that?
We used Infrastructure as Code (IaC), which basically means you can deploy, configure and manage infrastructure using code – just like software.
First, we made sure every part of the data center supported automation from the ground up. We used Cisco ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure), which gave us centralized control, policy-driven automation and much-needed agility. It made us the first private bank in Argentina to run our data centers entirely on SDN.
That’s quite a breakthrough! Where did you take it from there?
It felt logical to turn to our branch and campus networks next. There were some tougher challenges here, especially around micro-segmentation. This is all about splitting the network into smaller secure ‘zones’ with secure mobility, so staff could move freely between sites, as their security policies followed them.
Before, IT had to spend time manually configuring VLANs whenever someone moved between branches – which could also see errors creep in. Now, with Cisco SD-Access, the security stays consistent.
Sounds like SD-Access was a natural fit. How did you end up deciding on it, given your wide-ranging needs?
Very carefully! Multiple proof-of-concepts to make sure it would integrate smoothly – not just with Cisco, but other vendors we use too. Our solution had to be singular but account for things like automation, micro‑segmentation, dynamic security policies, version control, image deployment, and template‑based configurations. Quite a big ask.
We made tweaks to keep it compatible across systems, and integrated SDA with some existing tools. But launching it at our main campus was a huge success. It gave us exactly what we wanted: an end-to-end, secure, automated environment.
That’s fantastic to hear. So what’s next for BBVA Argentina’s network modernization journey, particularly as you look beyond the campus?
We’re now looking to repeat this success across our branch networks, by integrating Cisco Catalyst SD‑WAN with SDA as part of a Multi‑Domain architecture.
This will bring that same seamless campus experience to our branches too, with SD‑WAN adding intelligent routing, better performance, and centralized control. It’s getting us to a point where location doesn’t matter: the user experience is consistent and secure.
It’s incredible to see BBVA Argentina taking this progressive approach to network transformation. What great example of how software-defined solutions can help big financial institutions stay ahead of the game. Thanks so much for sharing your story with us, Oscar.
Inspired by BBVA Argentina’s transformation? Discover how Cisco SD‑Access can help unify and modernize your network.
