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Software Defined Networking (SDN)

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[Istanbul, Turkey - Veem]

 

- Overview

Software-defined networking (SDN) is a network architecture where the control plane (decision-making) is separated from the data plane (data forwarding), allowing network management to be centrally controlled through software applications, instead of relying solely on dedicated hardware devices like routers and switches, providing greater flexibility and programmability for network configuration and management. 

Essentially, SDN lets you manage your network using software rather than just hardware settings.

Key features about SDN:

  • Centralized control: A software controller acts as the "brain" of the network, making decisions about how data is routed across the network.
  • Abstraction: The controller abstracts the underlying hardware details, allowing administrators to manage the network using a unified interface.
  • Programmable: Network configurations and policies can be defined and implemented through software applications using APIs.


Benefits of SDN:

  • Improved agility: Enables quick network changes and updates through software-based configuration.
  • Simplified management: Centralized control simplifies network operations and troubleshooting.
  • Cost efficiency: Potentially reduces hardware costs by utilizing commodity hardware and optimizing network usage.
  • Scalability: Allows for easier scaling of the network to meet changing demands.

 

Please refer to the following for more information:

 

- SDN Elements

Software Defined Networking (SDN) is an architecture designed to make networks more flexible and easier to manage. SDN enables centralized management by abstracting the control plane from the data forwarding functions in discrete network devices.

SDN is cloud-based software that allows the network to be managed from a central point. The key is virtualization, which allows the software to run independently of the hardware. It will respond automatically, and IT staff can see all problems from a single location and troubleshoot more easily.

The SDN architecture provides a centralized, programmable network and consists of the following:

  • The controller is the core element of the SDN architecture, enabling centralized management and control, automation, and policy enforcement across physical and virtual network environments
  • Southbound APIs that pass information between the controller and individual network devices such as switches, access points, routers, and firewalls
  • Northbound APIs that pass information between the controller and applications and policy engines to which the SDN appears to be a logical network device

  

- Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN)

SD-WAN, which stands for Software-Defined Wide Area Network, is a networking technology that uses software-based control to manage and optimize network traffic across multiple WAN connections, like different Internet service providers or dedicated lines, providing a more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective way to connect geographically dispersed locations compared to traditional WANs. 

Key features about SD-WAN:

  • Centralized management: Unlike traditional WANs, SD-WAN allows for centralized control and configuration of network settings through a single management platform.
  • Dynamic path selection: SD-WAN can intelligently route traffic based on real-time network conditions, choosing the best available connection for optimal performance.
  • Multi-link support: SD-WAN can utilize various connection types like MPLS, broadband internet, 4G LTE, etc., simultaneously to ensure redundancy and improve bandwidth utilization.
  • Application-aware routing: SD-WAN can prioritize specific applications based on their criticality, ensuring critical business applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
  • Security features: Many SD-WAN solutions incorporate built-in security features like firewalls and encryption to protect data transmission across the network.

Benefits of using SD-WAN:
  • Cost reduction: By utilizing multiple connection types and optimizing network traffic, SD-WAN can help reduce overall WAN costs.
  • Improved performance: Dynamic path selection and application-aware routing can lead to better application performance for users across different locations.
  • Scalability: SD-WAN can be easily scaled to accommodate changing network needs by adding new locations or bandwidth as required.
  • Simplified management: Centralized management console simplifies network administration and troubleshooting.
 
 
 

[More to come ...]



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