Essential Guide
SDN basics for service providers
In this guide, learn the basics of network functions virtualization, SDN architecture and SDN applications for the service provider network
Introduction
Software-defined networking has caught the eye of service providers. While SDN strategies and use cases are just beginning to emerge, service providers see the potential in using the technology to optimize networks and create revenue-producing services.
Ultimately, service providers are hoping that SDN will enable the long-sought-after goal of application-aware and application-reactive networks. They're also aiming to enable network virtualization for agility and cost savings. To meet those needs, vendors are developing a plethora of SDN products.
However, there's a ways to go before the full potential of SDN will be known.
In this guide to SDN basics and applications for service providers, learn basic SDN and NFV terminology and technology choices, as well as the challenges service providers face when building SDN environments.
1Basics-
SDN basics for service providers
Before providers can use software-defined networking to drive down costs and promote agility, they must first understand the choices in SDN models and strategies. Service providers must choose between three SDN models, and part of that decision will be driven by determining which applications service providers want to run on the SDN controller. Read more on the basic elements of SDN and why providers are flocking to the new technology.
The three models of SDN
Before providers can consider SDN deployment, they must determine which model to support. This expert tip outlines the three SDN models to choose from. Continue Reading
Barriers to SDN provider adoption
Many large providers have run small-scale SDN pilots, yet they continue to run into barriers when attempting large-scale deployments. In this tip, read about challenges to large-scale SDN deployment. Continue Reading
Realizing SDN controller application potential
The goal of a SDN controller in a typical architecture is to convert a route to related sequence of device-forwarding behavior into specific forwarding changes. Learn the ins-and-outs to unlocking the potential of these controller applications. Continue Reading
Which SDN architecture will work for you?
here are two SDN architecture types: centralized and decentralized. In this expert tip, learn about the fundamental differences between the two types and determine which works best for you. Continue Reading
Why are providers interested in SDN?
The purchase of network virtualization company Nicira Networks by VMware jump-started provider interest in the SDN market. This blog explores why providers are flocking to the new technology and how SDN can solve operational problems and monetize their networks. Continue Reading
2Applications-
SDN applications for service providers
Although still few and far between, SDN applications have emerged, allowing service providers to streamline services, gain agility and even generate revenue. Read about the ways Google uses OpenFlow, how SDN can improve collaboration and video, and how organizations are interconnecting physical networks and domains using SDN. Additionally, learn how SDN improves security, but how it also poses new concerns.
The creation of an SDN networking exchange
Read how a group of organizations launched an SDN exchange that allows carriers, research institutes and enterprises to interconnect physical networks. Continue Reading
An SDN use case that results in revenue
Sonus Networks has found a way to generate revenue for service providers using SDN and network virtualization to optimize network capacity for video and collaboration applications. Continue Reading
Google goes with OpenFlow
Google recently announced it re-engineered its internal data center networks to run OpenFlow-based software-defined networks. Continue Reading
Granular policy control enabled by SDN security
To some, the concept of SDN sends security red flags, but experts maintain SDN technology is just as likely to enhance network security as it is to pose new challenges. Continue Reading
SD-WAN Buyer's Guide: What to Know Before You Buy
In this two-part guide, analyst Lee Doyle reveals the top 7 SD-WAN trends to watch for this year, and our editors compare 13 leading SD-WAN products in one handy infographic to help guide your purchasing decision.
3NFV basics-
What to know about network functions virtualization
Software-defined networking and network functions virtualization are often complementary to one another, but they're not the same. Learn about the basics of NFV and where it intersects with SDN.
Network functions virtualization takes reigns from hardware
NFV allows engineers to replace traditional network devices with software that lives on commodity servers. It's complementary to SDN, but it's not the same. Discover more benefits of NFV and how it offers flexibility and reduces costs. Continue Reading
Network functions virtualization revolutionizes architecture
NFV aims to move network functions out of network equipment and onto virtual hosting. Read more on how NVF depends on the execution of four steps, as well as management and standard challenges associated with it. Continue Reading
SDN plus NFV means service orchestration in mobile networks
SDN and NVF can address mobile network challenges in two ways: through dynamic resource orchestration and intelligent service orchestration. Continue Reading
Understanding the relationship between SDN and NFV
SDN and network functions virtualization often work together and according to this expert answer, can cause a networking revolution. Continue Reading
4Glossary-
SDN and service providers: Terms to know
Brush up on software-defined networking and service provider language with this terminology refresher.
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