Virtualization VS. Software-Defined Networking

Networking Virtualization (NV), Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) may be different, but each approach is aiming to improve the varying concerns of network mobility. Virtualization, in general, is the creation of the virtual version of something instead of the real thing.  Examples include operating systems, servers, and network resources. The two approaches to virtualization are Networking Virtualization (NV) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV): Network virtualization (NV) is the system of joining all available network resources by separating the available bandwidth into channels.  Each distinct channel can be appointed to a specific server or device in real time.  A network is very intricate and has many, many parts.  The point of virtualization is to disperse the network into different sections, making it more controllable and easy to deal with. Network Function Virtualization (NFV) is a more enhanced version of NV.  Essentially, it virtualizes Layer 4-7 functions which consist of firewall, IDPS, load balancing, and other application delivery controllers. Different from both NV and NFV is Software-Defined Networking (SDN).  This approach separates the control plane from the data plane and is dependent on switches that can be controlled using an industry standard control protocol, like OpenFlow.  SDN informs the network what goes where and directs packets to specific locations. The difference between NV, NFV, and SDN is that NV and NFV can be used on pre-existing networks, whereas SDN needs a new network.  This is because NV and NFV exist on servers and work with “groomed” traffic sent to them, and SDN needs a network that as separate date and control planes.  NV and NFV add virtual features to the physical network, whereas SDN alters the physical network into a new externally driven way to control the network. Launch 3 Telecom provides hardware associated with these types of networking technology.  If interested in buying or selling office networking equipment, please contact Launch 3 Telecom at 877-878-9134 or email sales@launch3.net.
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