Reviews and comparisons of the top Network Virtualization software currently available
Network virtualization software enables the creation of virtual networks that function independently of physical network infrastructure. It allows multiple virtual networks to coexist on shared hardware, improving resource utilization and flexibility. This technology abstracts network functions, enabling automated provisioning, segmentation, and scaling of network resources. It enhances security by isolating traffic between virtual networks, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, it supports software-defined networking (SDN) principles, allowing centralized control and programmability of network operations. By decoupling network services from physical hardware, it simplifies management, reduces costs, and enhances adaptability in cloud and data center environments.
Sort By:
-
1
ZeroTier
ZeroTier
Seamless, secure networking for global connectivity and simplicity.ZeroTier revolutionizes networking by establishing a secure overlay that allows all your devices to function as if they’re on the same local network. The setup process is quick and straightforward, allowing users to manage even the most intricate networks with ease, regardless of the geographical locations of their devices. Notable advantages of ZeroTier encompass: Facilitating private global networks specifically designed for IoT applications. Enhancing connections across various locations through software-defined networking. Supplanting conventional VPNs to provide a secure link for employees to critical systems. Opt for ZeroTier to experience fast, adaptable, and secure networking solutions that align with the needs of modern global enterprises while ensuring seamless connectivity for all users. -
2
Cisco ACI
Cisco
Streamline your network operations for efficiency and growth.Achieving flexible resource management can be accomplished through the automation of data center operations, guided by well-defined, standardized policies. By maintaining consistent adherence to these policies across both on-premises and cloud environments, organizations can significantly improve their security, governance, and compliance. This strategic approach not only ensures business continuity and effective disaster recovery but also promotes secure networking within a zero-trust security framework. Additionally, it transforms Day 2 operations into a proactive environment that automates troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and remediation processes. As a result, performance is optimized, and users benefit from single-click access that enhances automation and centralized control. Furthermore, you can effortlessly extend your on-premises ACI networks to remote locations, bare-metal clouds, and colocation facilities without necessitating extra hardware. The role of Cisco's Multi-Site Orchestrator is pivotal, providing provisioning, health monitoring, and management capabilities for Cisco ACI networking policies, among other essential features. This all-encompassing solution not only streamlines network connectivity but also ensures uniform policy administration and simplifies operations across diverse multicloud environments. Ultimately, this leads to improved operational efficiency and scalability for enterprises, positioning them for sustained growth in an ever-evolving digital landscape. By leveraging these advancements, organizations can remain competitive and responsive to the changing demands of the market. -
3
VMware NSX
Broadcom
Seamlessly protect and connect applications across diverse environments.Experience the full spectrum of network and security virtualization with VMware NSX, designed to protect and connect applications seamlessly across various environments, including data centers, multi-cloud setups, bare metal, and container systems. VMware NSX Data Center delivers an advanced L2-L7 networking and security virtualization framework, facilitating centralized oversight of your entire network via a single intuitive interface. Enhance your networking and security operations through one-click provisioning, which brings exceptional flexibility, agility, and scalability by deploying a complete L2-L7 stack in software, independent of any physical hardware limitations. Maintain consistent networking and security policies across both private and public clouds from one central point, regardless of whether your applications operate on virtual machines, containers, or bare metal servers. Moreover, elevate the security of your applications with precise micro-segmentation, which ensures customized protection at the individual workload level, thereby maximizing security throughout your infrastructure. This comprehensive approach not only streamlines management but also significantly boosts operational efficiency, allowing your organization to respond swiftly to changing demands. Ultimately, embracing VMware NSX leads to a more resilient and adaptable IT environment. -
4
Oracle Virtual Cloud Network
Oracle
Design secure, tailored cloud networks with unmatched performance reliability.Customers have the ability to design Virtual Cloud Networks (VCNs) tailored to their specific IP address needs for various workloads, and they can further divide a VCN into smaller segments using private or public subnets, or even assign multiple IP addresses to a single VCN. Additionally, they can expand their existing on-premises networks and connections by implementing virtual routers and gateways. Through the use of peering gateways, customers are able to connect different VCNs within the same tenancy or securely establish links to other tenancies. FastConnect provides an option for customers to set up direct, private, high-bandwidth connections to their Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) virtual cloud network, allowing them to select the port speed that aligns with their data needs while benefiting from a predictable, low monthly fee, in contrast to other providers that charge per data transfer, which can result in fluctuating costs. Furthermore, OCI adopts a security-first design that protects customer tenancies by utilizing isolated network virtualization, a critical feature aimed at preventing malware through a specially designed SmartNIC for enhanced network isolation and virtualization. This cutting-edge method not only fortifies security but also significantly improves network performance and reliability for users, ensuring a robust and secure cloud experience. As a result, customers can confidently manage their cloud resources while maintaining high standards of security and efficiency. -
5
Donglify
Donglify
Seamlessly share USB dongles anywhere, empowering remote collaboration.Donglify effectively tackles the problem of sharing USB dongles among users. This application empowers individuals to remotely access their USB dongles, even if they are not physically present at the location. It facilitates the seamless redirection of licensed USB dongles across the network to any specified destination. Frequently, users face situations where they need to use their licensed USB keys, but a direct physical connection is not feasible. Donglify offers a robust solution to address this predicament. Utilizing advanced port redirection technology, it enables the transmission of USB security dongles over extensive distances and into varied environments. If you encounter an issue where a USB dongle linked to your computer is unrecognized by the virtual machine in operation, there's no cause for concern. By simply installing Donglify on both the host and virtual guest systems, you can ensure your device is redirected smoothly into a virtual environment. Moreover, the application allows users to create login tokens that can be shared with others, further enhancing collaboration and accessibility. This innovative solution significantly simplifies the process of utilizing USB devices across a range of computing situations, making it a valuable tool for many users. As a result, Donglify not only enhances efficiency but also promotes a more flexible working environment. -
6
Nuage Networks Virtualized Services Platform
Nuage Networks from Nokia
Empower your organization with seamless, future-ready network automation.Transform your networking potential and prepare for a new era of all-encompassing network automation with the Nuage Networks Virtualized Services Platform (VSP). This cutting-edge platform enables you to effortlessly implement SDN and SD-WAN automation across various networks and cloud environments, ranging from private data center clouds to vast enterprise WANs and even the most extensive public cloud infrastructures. Accessible through a broad network of over 70 Managed Service Provider Partners worldwide, our open, secure, and multi-cloud-compatible wide area networking solution equips your organization with the benefits of SD-WAN while providing the flexibility to choose the approach that best suits your digital transformation goals. The Nuage Networks Virtualized Services Platform is recognized as the leading network automation solution in the market, offering a complete array of SDN, SD-WAN, and cloud capabilities. VSP not only advances network automation but also addresses a diverse array of architectures and scales, ensuring that businesses can succeed in an increasingly digital landscape. By leveraging this platform, organizations can optimize their operational efficiencies and maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving technological environment. -
7
Azure Route Server
Microsoft
Effortless dynamic routing for optimized network performance.Azure Route Server enables the automatic sharing of routing information between network devices and Azure virtual networks. By integrating your network devices with Azure ExpressRoute and VPN gateways, you can effortlessly obtain updated routing information from Azure Route Server, which removes the necessity for direct communication with each separate network. This capability supports dynamic routing between your network devices and Azure gateways, allowing organizations to move beyond the constraints of static routing. With the provision of Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) endpoints, Azure Route Server utilizes a widely accepted routing protocol to facilitate effective route exchanges. Its seamless compatibility with both established and new setups accommodates diverse network configurations, including hub and spoke, full mesh, or flat virtual networks. This adaptability not only aids in optimizing network architecture but also ensures that organizations can implement efficient routing strategies tailored to their specific needs. Consequently, Azure Route Server becomes a vital tool for enhancing network performance and reliability. -
8
Azure Network Function Manager
Microsoft
Seamless mobile network management for innovative, efficient connectivity.The Azure Network Function Manager provides a comprehensive management platform for authorized mobile network functions, streamlining the deployment of private LTE and 5G networks. This service guarantees a seamless experience from cloud to edge, supporting marketplace network functions such as SD-WAN. Users can effortlessly establish secure, on-premises private mobile networks for 5G or LTE by choosing from a variety of mobile packet core network function partners available through the Azure portal. These networks are characterized by minimal latency, making them particularly suitable for time-sensitive applications in fields like augmented reality, virtual reality, and industrial automation. Additionally, it enhances the setup and oversight of SD-WAN and VPN solutions at the edge through a wide-ranging partner ecosystem. For an authentic hybrid connectivity experience, users can leverage the Azure Marketplace to select from a curated collection of validated network functions, ensuring optimal performance with Azure and Azure Virtual WAN while improving compatibility with Azure Stack Edge. By incorporating these functionalities, organizations can fully harness the adaptability and effectiveness of their networking solutions, driving innovation and operational efficiency. This unified approach allows businesses to respond swiftly to evolving demands and maintain a competitive edge in the market. -
9
Anuta ATOM
Anuta Networks
Streamline network management with powerful, flexible automation solutions.Enhance your automation initiatives with Anuta ATOM, a solution tailored for Monitoring and Closed-Loop Automation in Multi-Vendor Networks. This platform simplifies the management and oversight of your varied network through a unified approach. Anuta ATOM supports a broad spectrum of leading vendors, including Cisco, Juniper, Arista, and F5, among others. In instances where your preferred vendor is not listed, the platform's highly flexible architecture enables swift integration, often achievable within a mere 2-6 weeks. Whether you need to incorporate IPAM, ITSM tools, or public cloud services, ATOM can effortlessly meet those needs. The system guarantees robust integration with numerous ecosystem vendors, further optimizing your network automation workflows. With ATOM’s remediation capabilities, maintaining network compliance becomes a breeze, as it provides accurate configurations for any policies that may fall out of compliance, either on demand or via scheduled updates, ensuring your network's adherence to standards. Perform both real-time and planned compliance evaluations to analyze the uniformity of your configurations. Moreover, ATOM facilitates compliance checks across various device groups or specific geographical areas, significantly boosting your operational efficiency and oversight. The adaptability of Anuta ATOM positions it as an essential tool for modern network management. -
10
Microsoft Hyper-V
Microsoft
Transform your IT infrastructure with powerful virtualization capabilities.Hyper-V is a Microsoft-developed virtualization platform that enables users to create and manage virtual machines, which serve as software simulations of physical computers. Each virtual machine operates autonomously, equipped with its own operating system and applications. This innovative technology enhances resource allocation flexibility, making it a more economical and effective option compared to executing a single operating system directly on physical hardware. Additionally, users can customize virtual machines with integration services that provide vital drivers and tools, ensuring optimized performance for various guest operating systems within the Hyper-V framework. A notable feature of Hyper-V is its Virtual Machine Connection, a remote access tool that works seamlessly with both Windows and Linux, facilitating console access to virtual machines. This functionality is particularly advantageous, as it allows users to observe the virtual machine's status even prior to the full loading of the guest operating system. Overall, Hyper-V contributes to improved computing efficiency and adaptability, making it suitable for a wide range of workloads and applications. The combination of these features underscores Hyper-V's importance in modern IT infrastructure. -
11
NEC ProgrammableFlow
NEC Corporation of America
Transform your network management for unparalleled agility and efficiency.NEC's ProgrammableFlow® networking suite significantly boosts agility in modern IT landscapes. As pioneers of the first commercially available Software-Defined Networking (SDN) solution that leverages the OpenFlow protocol, we provide technology that allows for comprehensive network virtualization, enabling enterprises, data centers, and service providers to deploy, control, monitor, and manage secure multi-tenant network infrastructures with ease. Today, network professionals encounter a myriad of challenges, often grappling with repetitive and error-prone tasks that consume precious time, diverting their focus from more critical responsibilities. The necessity for automation arises from the inefficiency of these manual processes, which can stifle productivity. The ProgrammableFlow Networking Suite from NEC not only streamlines security measures but also reduces operational costs and elevates network management capabilities. It supports the swift and straightforward deployment and management of Unified Communications (UC) networks, providing simplified provisioning along with the dynamic, on-demand allocation of essential network resources. This cutting-edge approach empowers organizations to respond more rapidly to changing demands, ensuring they can enhance their operational efficiency while remaining agile in the face of evolving challenges. Ultimately, this transformation in network management positions businesses to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. -
12
MidoNet
MidoNet
Revolutionize your cloud networking with powerful virtualization solutions.MidoNet stands as a powerful network virtualization platform, licensed under Apache, tailored specifically for Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) environments. By effectively decoupling the IaaS cloud from its underlying network hardware, MidoNet introduces a sophisticated software abstraction layer that facilitates seamless connectivity between end hosts and the physical network. This cutting-edge layer enables cloud operators to evolve traditional hardware-based network appliances into a versatile, software-driven multi-tenant framework. Furthermore, MidoNet enriches OpenStack by delivering production-ready distributed overlay networking capabilities. The primary benefits of using MidoNet include a streamlined physical network design, enhanced availability across all servers and services, scalable architecture, reduced protocol reliance, optimized network traffic with minimal overhead, and improved fault tolerance, all of which drive greater efficiency in cloud operations. Ultimately, MidoNet marks a noteworthy leap forward in the development of cloud networking solutions, showcasing its potential to reshape the industry landscape. This progressive approach not only benefits cloud service providers but also enhances user experiences across diverse applications. -
13
Azure ExpressRoute
Microsoft
Secure, private connections for seamless cloud scalability and efficiency.Utilize Azure ExpressRoute to create secure and private links between Azure's data centers and your on-premises systems or colocation sites. In contrast to conventional internet connections, ExpressRoute pathways bypass the public internet, resulting in improved reliability, higher speeds, and lower latency. This advantage may translate into significant cost reductions when moving data from local systems to Azure. By adopting ExpressRoute, you can effectively combine additional computing and storage capabilities with your existing data centers. With its remarkable throughput and fast response times, Azure can seamlessly serve as an extension of your current operations, enabling you to harness the benefits of public cloud scalability and efficiency while maintaining robust network performance. This method of connection allows organizations to retain greater control over their data while simultaneously leveraging the vast potential of cloud solutions. Moreover, this setup not only enhances operational efficiency but also paves the way for innovative business strategies and growth. -
14
Oxide Cloud Computer
Oxide Cloud Computer
Empower your enterprise with agile, scalable, and efficient solutions.Tailored for vertical integration and poised for expansion, this innovative solution brings hyper-scaler flexibility to mainstream enterprises. It delivers software that equally supports both developers and operators, facilitating rapid project launches just minutes after system activation. With robust per-tenant isolation, users can maintain comprehensive control over networking, routing, and firewalls using VPC and advanced network virtualization capabilities. As the deployment expands, network services automatically scale, eliminating the common performance bottlenecks. Elastic compute resources are available from a centralized infrastructure pool, ensuring seamless compatibility with existing development tools. Furthermore, it features a high-performance, persistent block storage service that offers customizable capacity and IOPS for each volume. Transitioning from rack installation to a fully operational development environment can now occur in mere hours, representing a dramatic decrease from the weeks or months that were traditionally necessary. This solution requires only two-thirds of the space that standard on-premises infrastructure demands, making it a highly efficient alternative. Additionally, familiar management tools can be employed through integrations with Kubernetes and Terraform, which not only streamline operations but also boost productivity significantly. As a result, enterprises can enjoy a more agile and responsive infrastructure that adapts to ever-changing needs. -
15
Lumen Cloud Connect
Lumen Technologies
Seamlessly connect, secure, and optimize your cloud networks.Easily unify your cloud environments with Lumen Cloud Connect, which provides secure and high-performance virtualized networking tailored for both public and private cloud platforms. By leveraging dynamic software-defined networking (SDN) controls, you can create a network experience that seamlessly integrates with your cloud offerings. Establish a reliable link between your network and the cloud, ensuring exceptional performance, security, and scalability. Enhance your visibility while effectively managing the traffic on your Ethernet virtual circuit, which allows you to deliver critical applications from the cloud with remarkable reliability and speed. Enjoy the benefits of cloud services combined with the strong security of a private network when connecting to various platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, IBM Cloud, and Oracle. Furthermore, take advantage of self-service options that enable the quick addition or removal of Ethernet services to cloud and data center setups through an intuitive portal or API integration, which streamlines your operations significantly. This all-encompassing solution not only improves flexibility but also maximizes performance across your cloud interactions, ensuring that your infrastructure adapts to your evolving business needs. As a result, you can maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly changing digital landscape. -
16
Arista Converged Cloud Fabric
Arista
Revolutionize your networking with seamless cloud automation today!The Converged Cloud Fabric (CCF)™ is an innovative automated networking solution that is fundamentally based on cloud technology principles. By implementing VPC/VNet frameworks in on-premises settings, CCF delivers a Network-as-a-Service model specifically designed for cloud environments. This cutting-edge fabric enhances networking efficiency across diverse private cloud settings, ensuring that the network keeps pace with the swift development of virtual machines and containers. Featuring sophisticated analytics and telemetry, CCF grants real-time insights and context throughout the entire network fabric, along with convenient one-click troubleshooting options. Consequently, collaborative efforts among NetOps, DevOps, and CloudOps teams are significantly improved, facilitating quick application and tenant onboarding. CCF serves as a pivotal resource for both large enterprises and midsize companies, positioning networking as a critical component of their digital transformation strategies. Moreover, with its self-service networking features and contextual insights, NetOps teams are empowered to focus more on innovative projects, such as crafting new services and advancing analytics, rather than becoming entangled in monotonous manual tasks. This transformation enables organizations to maintain a competitive edge and adaptability in a rapidly changing digital environment, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Ultimately, CCF not only streamlines operations but also encourages a proactive approach to network management. -
17
Contrail Networking
Juniper Networks
Seamlessly manage networking across clouds, simplifying connectivity effortlessly.Contrail Networking offers a versatile and all-encompassing strategy for managing networking policies and controls that can be applied across multiple clouds, workloads, and deployment scenarios, all from a unified user interface. By transforming high-level workflows into precise policies, it simplifies the orchestration of virtual overlay connectivity in a variety of environments. Users are able to effectively implement and oversee end-to-end policies in both physical and virtual contexts. At its core, Contrail Networking is built on the open-source network virtualization platform Tungsten Fabric, which equips it with software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities that facilitate the secure deployment of workloads in any environment. This solution guarantees smooth overlay connectivity for any workload, independent of the underlying compute technology, whether it involves traditional bare-metal servers, virtual machines, or containers. Furthermore, Contrail Command acts as a user-friendly operational and management interface, optimizing user engagement and boosting overall productivity. The integration of these capabilities not only empowers organizations to sustain strong network performance but also enhances their ability to adapt to changing requirements effectively. Consequently, organizations can achieve a more responsive and agile networking infrastructure. -
18
Ericsson Automated Network Operations
Ericsson
Unlock seamless automation and efficiency in telecom operations.Digitalization is recognized as a powerful force driving transformation in today's world. The rise of new technologies such as SDN/NFV, artificial intelligence, 5G, and the Internet of Things is reshaping various industries and organizations. This transformation not only revamps traditional practices and core offerings but also increases the demand for products and services across sectors. As businesses adopt virtualized and software-driven systems in preparation for expansion in the digital realm, the necessity of automation becomes evident for enhancing and rethinking operational processes. Begin your journey towards achieving seamless, automated operations and orchestration that utilizes real-time data insights effectively. The Ericsson Automated Network Operations portfolio significantly enhances telecom operational support systems, ushering in a groundbreaking era of efficiency and creativity within the industry. This shift in operational management is a vital milestone in unlocking the full potential of an interconnected world, paving the way for future advancements that can further benefit society. -
19
6WIND Virtual Service Router
6WIND
Transform your network with scalable, energy-efficient routing solutions.The 6WIND VSR product suite offers an array of high-performance, scalable virtualized software routers, meticulously crafted for Communication Service Providers (CSPs), Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and enterprises. These routers can be implemented in multiple formats, including bare-metal, virtualized, or containerized configurations on Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) servers, suitable for deployment in both private and public cloud settings. Leveraging the sophisticated 6WIND core technology (6WNOS), these solutions dramatically reduce energy consumption, leading to a carbon footprint decrease of more than 50%. The 6WIND VSR portfolio includes various solutions such as vPE, vCSR, vSecGW, vCGNAT, vBorderRouter, and vCPE, which together deliver a wide-ranging set of features, including end-to-end security, reliability, and flexibility. This combination fosters improved deployment agility and resource optimization, making the suite exceptionally cost-effective for users. Additionally, the 6WIND VSR Product Suite excels not only in energy efficiency but also enhances performance, security, scalability, and flexibility, effectively addressing the multifaceted requirements of global CSPs, MNOs, cloud service providers, data centers, and enterprises. As a result, organizations can maintain their competitive edge in the rapidly changing technology landscape, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet future challenges. -
20
AWS Nitro System
Amazon
Revolutionizing cloud computing with enhanced security and performance.The AWS Nitro System acts as the foundation for the latest generation of Amazon EC2 instances, promoting rapid advancements from AWS, reducing costs for customers, and offering enhanced security along with a diverse array of instance types. By fundamentally reimagining the virtualization architecture, AWS has shifted critical functions like CPU, storage, and networking virtualization to dedicated hardware and software, optimizing the distribution of server resources to specific instances. This system comprises several vital components: Nitro Cards, which boost and expedite I/O for services such as VPC, EBS, and instance storage; the Nitro Security Chip, which reduces vulnerability to attacks and restricts admin access to mitigate the risk of human error and tampering; and the Nitro Hypervisor, a lightweight hypervisor that manages CPU and memory allocation, delivering performance that closely mirrors that of bare metal. Additionally, the modular design of the Nitro System allows for the rapid rollout of various EC2 instance types, significantly improving the adaptability and effectiveness of cloud computing solutions. In summary, this groundbreaking architecture signifies a major advancement in the realm of cloud technology, paving the way for future innovations in the industry. -
21
Check Point Virtual Systems
Check Point
Enhance cybersecurity efficiency with tailored virtualization solutions today.Check Point Virtual Systems leverage advanced virtualization technologies to improve security within private cloud environments, leading to a significant reduction in total ownership costs. This technology allows for the deployment of several virtual security gateways on a single hardware platform, enabling organizations to tailor their security strategies for each virtual system. Such customization simplifies complex network security policies, making them easier to manage and aligning them more closely with rigorous business standards. Virtual Systems are especially advantageous in large-scale environments such as major corporations, data centers, and Managed Service Providers (MSPs). In MSP settings, these systems optimize hardware resource usage while protecting user privacy by compartmentalizing applications and services into separate virtual environments. Furthermore, this architecture supports both layer-2 bridge mode and layer-3 Virtual Systems on the same gateway, facilitating smooth integration into existing network setups without the need for a comprehensive overhaul of IP routing configurations. As a result, organizations can achieve greater operational efficiency while ensuring that their security measures are precisely aligned with their unique requirements. Ultimately, the versatility and effectiveness of Check Point Virtual Systems make them a crucial component for businesses looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture in today's digital landscape. -
22
Cisco Enterprise Network Functions
Cisco
Transform your network with seamless virtualization and efficiency.Cisco's Enterprise Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) solution enables organizations to shift essential network operations into a virtualized framework, which allows for rapid deployment of services across multiple locations. By converting traditional hardware-based network functions into software, this NFV approach reduces dependence on a variety of physical devices, leading to significant cost savings and simplified management processes. This forward-thinking NFV solution accelerates the rollout of new virtual network services while streamlining operational tasks, offering the flexibility to seamlessly unify physical, virtual, Cisco, and third-party components. Consequently, it not only cuts costs but also frees IT staff from repetitive site visits, enhancing overall network efficiency. Furthermore, it adeptly handles and automates the provision of network services in both physical and virtual environments, optimizing workflows and greatly lessening the need for manual intervention. Ultimately, Cisco's NFV represents a revolutionary shift in network management, allowing businesses to quickly adapt to changing requirements while improving service delivery. This paradigm shift ensures that organizations remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic landscape. -
23
Cisco Elastic Services Controller
Cisco
Streamline your network management with versatile lifecycle control.The Cisco Elastic Services Controller (ESC) operates as a Virtual Network Functions Manager (VNFM), overseeing the complete lifecycle of Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) from their initial onboarding and deployment to ongoing tasks such as monitoring, scaling, healing, and eventual retirement. Its adaptable and modular architecture supports both Cisco's own VNFs and those provided by third-party vendors, making it versatile for various network environments. Seamlessly integrating into any ETSI-compliant Management and Orchestration (MANO) framework, ESC maintains the integrity and compliance of the overall architecture. The platform offers extensive visibility into the creation of services, facilitating effective management from the initial instantiation through crucial maintenance processes, including auto-scaling and healing, all the way to the final dismantling of both straightforward and complex multi-VNF services. By skillfully managing these multi-VNF services, ESC provides vital tools for establishing service definitions, implementing policies, and managing VNF placements, thereby improving operational efficiency. Additionally, ESC incorporates sophisticated analytics and service health monitoring capabilities, bolstered by its built-in instrumentation, which guarantees continuous optimization of network performance. This all-encompassing strategy not only streamlines network management but also significantly boosts the reliability of services implemented across various settings, ultimately leading to improved user experiences and operational outcomes. -
24
Agilio OVS Firewall
Netronome
Elevate your network security with advanced, seamless solutions.The Agilio OVS Firewall allows users to establish more advanced filtering policies, security groups, access control lists, and stateful firewall applications. This innovative solution acts as a seamless accelerator for Open vSwitch (OVS), guaranteeing compatibility with existing networking tools, controllers, and orchestration platforms. The Agilio SmartNICs, in conjunction with Agilio software, keep pace with the developing features of standard OVS, which now includes an array of server-based networking functionalities like flexible match-action forwarding, connection tracking (Conntrack), and network overlay management facilitated by tunneling protocols such as VXLAN and NVGRE. In addition, it offers comprehensive statistics and measurement tools, supporting capabilities like Layer 2/Layer 3 forwarding, network virtualization, reinforced security protocols, load balancing, and sophisticated analytics. By integrating Agilio Firewall Software with Agilio SmartNICs, this solution amplifies the Agilio OVS Software suite, enabling zero-trust stateful security while also greatly enhancing server-based networking performance. Moreover, this synergy fosters quicker reactions to emerging security threats, ensuring that organizations can uphold strong defenses in a constantly shifting digital environment. As a result, businesses can navigate the complexities of modern network security with greater confidence and efficiency.
- Previous
- You're on page 1
- Next
Network Virtualization Software Buyers Guide
In today's fast-paced digital economy, businesses rely on robust, scalable, and flexible network infrastructures to support their operations. Traditional networking models, which depend on physical hardware and rigid architectures, often struggle to keep up with evolving business demands. Network virtualization software provides a transformative solution by abstracting network services from underlying hardware, enabling greater agility, security, and efficiency. Whether you're a small enterprise looking to streamline IT operations or a large corporation seeking advanced networking capabilities, investing in the right network virtualization platform can drive cost savings, enhance performance, and improve network manageability.
What Is Network Virtualization Software?
Network virtualization software enables businesses to create, manage, and optimize virtual networks independently of physical infrastructure. This technology allows multiple virtual networks to coexist on the same hardware, providing better resource utilization, simplified management, and improved security. It also facilitates automation, centralized control, and scalability—essential factors for modern businesses operating in hybrid or cloud-based environments.
Network virtualization typically involves:
- Virtualized Network Functions (VNFs): These are software-based versions of traditional networking components such as firewalls, routers, and load balancers.
- Software-Defined Networking (SDN): SDN centralizes network control, allowing administrators to manage traffic dynamically using software rather than manual configurations.
- Network Overlay Technologies: Overlays use encapsulation techniques to create logical networks on top of physical infrastructure, enabling more efficient segmentation and traffic management.
By leveraging these components, organizations can reduce hardware dependencies, increase network flexibility, and improve overall operational efficiency.
Key Benefits of Network Virtualization
Businesses adopting network virtualization software can expect several advantages, including:
- Increased Agility and Flexibility: With network virtualization, businesses can deploy and modify network resources quickly, without needing to reconfigure physical hardware. This is particularly useful for organizations undergoing digital transformation, mergers, or expansions.
- Enhanced Security and Compliance: Virtualized networks allow businesses to implement micro-segmentation, which isolates workloads and prevents unauthorized lateral movement of threats. Additionally, centralized security policies can be enforced across the network, improving compliance with industry regulations.
- Cost Savings and Resource Optimization: By eliminating the need for extensive physical hardware, network virtualization reduces capital expenditures (CapEx) and operational expenses (OpEx). Businesses can also allocate resources dynamically, ensuring optimal performance while avoiding unnecessary hardware investments.
- Improved Network Management and Automation: Centralized control simplifies network management, reducing the complexity of provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Automation tools further streamline administrative tasks, minimizing human errors and improving response times.
- Seamless Integration with Cloud Environments: Modern businesses increasingly operate across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments. Network virtualization provides the necessary interoperability and scalability to support multi-cloud strategies without sacrificing performance or security.
Essential Features to Consider
When evaluating network virtualization software, business leaders should focus on key features that align with their organization's needs:
- Scalability: Can the platform support business growth and handle increased network demands?
- Security Measures: Does the solution offer encryption, micro-segmentation, and robust access controls?
- Automation & Orchestration: How effectively does the software streamline network management and reduce manual intervention?
- Compatibility: Can it integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure, including legacy systems and cloud platforms?
- Performance & Reliability: What level of uptime, speed, and traffic optimization does the solution provide?
- Ease of Deployment & Management: Is the software user-friendly, or does it require extensive training and expertise?
Challenges and Considerations
While network virtualization offers compelling advantages, businesses should be aware of potential challenges:
- Implementation Complexity: Transitioning from traditional to virtualized networks requires careful planning, skilled personnel, and proper configuration to avoid disruptions.
- Security Risks: While virtualization enhances security in many ways, misconfigured environments or inadequate policies can create vulnerabilities.
- Vendor Lock-in: Some platforms may limit interoperability with other vendors' solutions, making it difficult to switch providers in the future.
- Regulatory Compliance: Businesses in regulated industries must ensure their virtualized networks meet compliance standards for data privacy and security.
Is Network Virtualization Right for Your Business?
Organizations of all sizes can benefit from network virtualization, but the decision should be based on specific business objectives. If your company operates in a highly dynamic environment, requires multi-cloud networking capabilities, or seeks to reduce IT complexity, adopting a network virtualization strategy could be a game-changer. However, a thorough assessment of costs, technical expertise, and long-term scalability should guide the final decision.
Investing in the right network virtualization software can provide a significant competitive advantage by delivering more efficient, secure, and scalable network infrastructure. By carefully evaluating the available options and aligning them with business needs, decision-makers can ensure their networks are future-proofed and ready for growth.