Reviews and comparisons of the top Software-Defined Networking solutions currently available
A Software-Defined Networking (SDN) solution is a network architecture that separates the control plane from the data plane, allowing centralized management and dynamic configuration of network resources. It provides a programmable interface for administrators to automate network provisioning, improve scalability, and reduce operational complexity. By abstracting network hardware, SDN enables the deployment of virtualized network services, enhancing flexibility and agility in modern IT environments. This approach facilitates real-time traffic optimization, load balancing, and enhanced security through granular policy enforcement. SDN solutions support seamless network adaptation to shifting workloads, making them ideal for cloud computing and hybrid infrastructures. Ultimately, they promote cost savings, faster service delivery, and more efficient resource utilization across diverse network environments.
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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. -
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Cruz Operations Center (CruzOC)
Dorado Software
Streamline your network management with powerful automation tools.CruzOC serves as a versatile network management and IT operations platform that accommodates multiple vendors while being scalable for diverse needs. This user-friendly tool offers powerful features for netops, including automated management capabilities that encompass performance and configuration management, as well as lifecycle management for thousands of vendors. With CruzOC, administrators can streamline data center operations and manage critical resources more effectively. The platform enhances the quality of both network and services, accelerates deployment processes, and reduces operational costs. Ultimately, it delivers a centralized solution for comprehensive and automated problem resolution through a single interface. Additionally, CruzOC includes monitoring and analytics for network health, traffic, logs, and changes, along with automation for compliance and security measures, orchestration, and provisioning tasks. Its automated deployment features, such as auto-deploy, zero-touch provisioning (ZTP), and remote deployment, ensure that installations are seamless. The solution is flexible, offering deployment options both on-premises and in the cloud, catering to various organizational preferences and requirements. -
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Cruz Fabric Controller
Dorado Software
Effortlessly manage and optimize your network's diverse fabrics.Cruz Fabric Controller offers genuine software-defined networking capabilities that facilitate the management of fabrics across remote data centers, edge locations, and various remote sites. Utilizing a unified interface, users can efficiently deploy and update fabrics while also overseeing their management, monitoring, maintenance, and automation of operations, ensuring streamlined processes throughout the network. This comprehensive approach significantly enhances operational efficiency and reduces the complexity involved in managing diverse network environments. -
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IBM Cloud Internet Services
IBM
Secure your web presence with robust DDoS protection solutions.To ensure the protection of public-facing web content and applications prior to their access in the cloud, it is essential to implement DDoS defense mechanisms alongside global load balancing strategies, supported by a robust set of security, reliability, and performance features. At the fundamental level, a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack can be compared to a severe traffic jam on a highway, which prevents regular vehicles from reaching their destinations smoothly. In essence, a DDoS attack represents a calculated attempt to disrupt the normal functioning of a server, service, or network by bombarding the target or its surrounding infrastructure with an excessive amount of internet traffic. For clients aiming to shield their internet-facing applications from various threats, including DDoS attacks, data breaches, and bot-related incidents, IBM Cloud Internet Services provides a user-friendly selection of edge network solutions. Additionally, these services accommodate those looking to improve their web applications while ensuring global responsiveness and consistent availability of their online offerings. By utilizing these advanced services, organizations can significantly bolster their online security and operational efficiency, creating a more resilient digital environment. This proactive approach ultimately leads to a better user experience and increased trust from clients. -
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Trustgrid
Trustgrid
Streamline connectivity and security for resilient SaaS applications.Trustgrid serves as the SD-WAN solution tailored specifically for software providers. The Trustgrid platform effectively meets the unique demands of SaaS application providers that operate in environments controlled by customers or partners. By integrating SD-WAN 2.0, edge computing, and zero trust remote access into one cohesive platform, we empower software providers to oversee and support distributed application environments from the cloud to the edge. With Trustgrid, you can streamline connectivity, bolster security measures, and ensure consistent network availability, all while enhancing the overall performance of your applications. This innovative approach not only simplifies management but also fosters a more resilient infrastructure for software providers. -
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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. -
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DxOdyssey
DH2i
Revolutionizing security with seamless, application-level connectivity solutions.DxOdyssey represents a cutting-edge software solution that leverages patented technology to create highly available application-level micro-tunnels across a multitude of locations and platforms. This software stands out by offering unparalleled ease, security, and confidentiality compared to other available alternatives. By integrating DxOdyssey, organizations can initiate a transition towards a zero trust security framework, which proves invaluable for networking and security administrators overseeing multi-site and multi-cloud environments. In light of the evolving nature of the traditional network perimeter, DxOdyssey’s unVPN technology has been crafted to seamlessly adjust to this new reality. Unlike conventional VPNs and direct link strategies that necessitate significant upkeep and pose risks of lateral network movements, DxOdyssey employs a more robust approach by providing application-level access rather than network-level access, which significantly reduces the attack surface. Moreover, it accomplishes this while delivering the most secure and efficient Software Defined Perimeter (SDP), thus enabling connectivity for distributed applications and clients across various locations, clouds, and domains. As a result, organizations can bolster their overall security posture while streamlining their network management processes, leading to greater operational efficiency and effectiveness. This innovative approach ensures that security measures can keep pace with the demands of modern digital landscapes. -
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ONAP
ONAP
Transforming network automation for efficient, scalable digital infrastructures.ONAP functions as a comprehensive framework that orchestrates, manages, and automates services linked to networks and edge computing, catering to a diverse array of stakeholders such as network operators, cloud service providers, and enterprises. Its capabilities for real-time, policy-driven orchestration and automation of both physical and virtual network functions enable rapid service deployment while ensuring thorough lifecycle management, which is vital for the evolution of 5G and next-generation network technologies. The Open Network Automation Platform initiative unites prominent global carriers and technology firms with the goal of enabling end users to efficiently automate, design, orchestrate, and oversee services and virtual functions. By integrating two major open networking and orchestration initiatives—open-source ECOMP and the Open Orchestrator Project (OPEN-O)—ONAP seeks to create a unified architecture and implementation that promotes collaboration in the open-source community. Under the auspices of the Linux Foundation, ONAP is dedicated to fostering innovation and establishing standards in network automation. In addition to simplifying operations, ONAP significantly boosts the scalability and adaptability required for contemporary digital infrastructures, ultimately paving the way for more resilient and efficient network management solutions. This ongoing commitment to innovation ensures that ONAP remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the networking domain. -
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Lumen SD-WAN
Lumen Technologies
Transform your network with secure, scalable, high-performance solutions.Unlock the potential of your network with Lumen SD-WAN Solutions, which seamlessly combine automated security, improved performance, and smart scalability to drive digital transformation forward. By alleviating the intricacies and reducing the threats tied to network evolution, Lumen's SD-WAN offerings adeptly protect and oversee workloads over a variety of connection types, all within a unified, automated framework that provides centralized oversight and management. Explore the ways to enhance your network functions utilizing SD-WAN technology. With its state-of-the-art cloud gateway design and groundbreaking Dynamic Multipath Optimization™ (DMPO) features, Lumen SD-WAN, in partnership with VMware, guarantees reliable and secure high-performance access to essential applications, including voice and video, across various locations such as branch offices, data centers, and expansive cloud infrastructures. Organizations can swiftly establish branch connectivity in a matter of minutes, with scalable management solutions specifically designed for mid-sized to large businesses, thereby significantly boosting operational efficiency and responsiveness. Furthermore, this agility allows companies to better adapt to changing market demands and enhances their overall competitive edge. -
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Infinera Transcend Software Suite
Infinera
Transform your network with agile, automated, and innovative solutions.The Infinera Transcend Software Suite is an advanced modular platform tailored for application-driven network automation, enabling users to surpass the constraints of their existing network capabilities. This versatile software, which spans multiple layers, domains, and vendors, aids organizations in optimizing operations, maximizing resource efficiency, and achieving swift service delivery, thus driving substantial network transformation. By leveraging cloud-native technologies, Transcend equips users with a broad range of applications such as network discovery, path computation, and sophisticated closed-loop automation, all complemented by powerful analytics tools. These top-tier, open, and customizable solutions are easy to deploy and can be adapted to fit unique organizational requirements. Infinera is recognized as a premier provider of innovative networking solutions, assisting enterprises, government bodies, carriers, and cloud service providers in enhancing their network bandwidth, accelerating service innovation, and effectively automating their network operations. As the need for agile and responsive networks continues to rise, the Transcend Software Suite empowers users to maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. Moreover, its comprehensive suite of features positions organizations to swiftly adapt to future challenges and opportunities within the networking landscape. -
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IBM Network Services
IBM
Transform your network for a resilient, future-ready business.IBM's Network Consulting Services provides a wide array of strategic, assessment, planning, and design solutions specifically crafted to address your IT and application needs. Their specialized knowledge in areas such as software defined networking (SDN), Software Defined WAN (SD-WAN), Internet of Things (IoT), and the enhancement of network infrastructure and applications positions your network for the shifting dynamics of digital and hybrid multicloud environments. With the implementation of IBM's SDN Services, businesses can create a highly adaptable network fabric that functions seamlessly across Data Center/Cloud (SDN-DC), Wide Area Network (SD-WAN), and Branch Networks (SD-LAN). By employing a consulting-led approach, IBM strives to foster the development of cloud-ready, flexible, and resilient networks that are in sync with your long-term business goals. Furthermore, IBM's Managed Network Services are designed to improve operational flexibility, reduce expenses, and streamline complexities across your hybrid cloud, data center, and both local and wide area networks, ultimately contributing to enhanced business outcomes. This comprehensive strategy not only prepares organizations to tackle current obstacles but also equips them with the tools necessary for future technological advancements and innovations in networking, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving market. -
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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. -
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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. -
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Junos Space Network Management
Juniper Networks
Streamline your network management with intuitive, automated solutions.The Junos Space Network Management Platform works in conjunction with our management applications to enhance and automate the monitoring of Juniper's devices for switching, routing, and security functions. This all-encompassing solution provides a wide range of features for managing faults, configurations, accounting, performance, and security (FCAPS), and includes immediate support for newly launched devices and updates to the Junos OS. With its user-friendly, task-oriented interface and northbound APIs, it integrates smoothly with existing network management systems (NMS) or operations/business support systems (OSS/BSS). Utilizing multilayered network abstractions along with automation strategies aimed at operators, this platform enables both enterprise and service provider network operators to scale their operations effectively while reducing complexity. Furthermore, it supports the swift implementation of new applications and services, helping organizations stay agile and responsive in an ever-evolving market landscape. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in today's rapid technological environment. -
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NorthStar Controller
Juniper Networks
Revolutionize network management with automated, optimized service paths.Network operators need the ability to automate the provisioning and management of network service paths that cater to various application and end-user constraints. The NorthStar Controller stands out as the pioneering WAN software-defined networking (SDN) controller specifically engineered for optimizing traffic, thereby aiding operators in achieving this essential capability. It simplifies the management of segment routing and IP/MPLS flows across diverse networks, including those of service providers, cloud providers, and large enterprises. By utilizing the NorthStar Controller, operators can gain comprehensive insights into traffic behaviors, while also improving network capacity through automation. The system consistently monitors the network in real-time, gathering and analyzing streaming telemetry, IGP, and BGP-LS data to create new service paths that meet user-defined SLA requirements. As a result, the NorthStar Controller allows operators to run their networks with enhanced capacity utilization, ensuring both efficiency and reliability in operations. Furthermore, this innovative solution equips operators with the tools needed to make data-driven decisions that optimize network performance while upholding service quality standards. In a landscape where network demands are constantly evolving, the adaptability offered by the NorthStar Controller is invaluable. -
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GV Orbit
Grass Valley
Seamless integration and control for modern broadcast networks.GV Orbit serves as an all-encompassing solution for the configuration, control, and monitoring of broadcast media networks, adeptly accommodating SDI, hybrid, or purely IP environments. Its architecture prioritizes open standards-based IP systems and incorporates various features designed to ease the challenges associated with IP integration. One of its most remarkable features is the dynamic orchestration capability, which distinguishes it from other solutions by enabling real-time modifications; users can conveniently add or remove devices and adjust settings as required. The system further simplifies equipment management through its device discovery and detection functions, making addressing and configuration more efficient. Additionally, the interface is designed with user-friendliness in mind, offering clear device lists and topology views, as well as advanced “drill-down” capabilities. Moreover, live updates significantly boost operational efficiency by facilitating instant signal renaming and the quick integration of new devices. GV Orbit also includes extensive routing controls that are compatible with SDI, hybrid, or IP routers and switches, ensuring effective management of broadcast signals while remaining adaptable to the shifting demands of the network environment. In summary, GV Orbit not only improves operational flexibility but also cultivates a more cohesive and efficient landscape for broadcast media. Its ability to seamlessly integrate various technologies makes it an essential asset for modern broadcasting operations. -
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Verge-OS
Verge.io
Revolutionizing data centers with seamless virtualization and management.Verge-OS emerges as a groundbreaking operating system that distinctively decouples networking, computing through its hypervisor, and storage from conventional bare metal hardware, facilitating the creation of virtual data centers. In contrast to competitors who merely aim to virtualize single machines, we elevate the concept by virtualizing entire data centers within a unified solution. This all-encompassing offering is packaged under a single license and boasts an easy-to-use interface for effortless management. As a powerful Software Defined Networking platform, Verge-OS integrates an operational firewall to bolster security measures. By abstracting the data center from its hardware roots, Verge-OS adeptly combines all essential resources within the hypervisor framework. It also implements RAIN architecture in its vSAN, which enhances the distribution, sharing, and scalability of storage solutions. Moreover, Verge-OS effectively consolidates and replaces multiple software and licensing expenses associated with hypervisors, SAN, NAS, firewalls, disaster recovery, backup systems, orchestration, system management, and logging tools, while eliminating the necessity for proprietary hardware maintenance agreements. This comprehensive strategy not only streamlines organizational processes but also leads to significant cost savings for companies striving to enhance their IT infrastructure. Ultimately, Verge-OS provides a transformative approach to data center management that prioritizes efficiency and adaptability. -
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Pica8 PICOS
Pica8
Empower your network with seamless visibility and security.The distinctive PICOS open NOS, designed with tightly integrated control planes, offers network operators accurate and non-intrusive visibility into their enterprise applications, facilitating comprehensive and flexible traffic analysis as well as timely attack prevention. When it comes to implementing zero-trust networking and creating software-defined perimeters, PICOS is recognized as the leading solution. Our cutting-edge open network operating system seamlessly works with open switches that feature interfaces between 1G and 100G, sourced from a wide array of Tier 1 manufacturers. This extensive licensing package provides unmatched support for enterprise capabilities found in today's market. It also includes the Debian Linux distribution, maintaining an unaltered kernel to maximize DevOps programmability. In addition, the Enterprise Edition is further enhanced with AmpCon, an automation framework leveraging Ansible, which combines Zero-Touch Provisioning (ZTP) with the Open Network Install Environment (ONIE), thereby simplifying the deployment and management of open network switches across the enterprise. Such sophisticated functionalities empower organizations to maintain not only operationally efficient networks but also robust defenses against continuously emerging threats. As a result, businesses can confidently navigate the complexities of modern networking while ensuring their infrastructure remains fortified. -
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InterCloud
InterCloud
Elevate your enterprise with secure, high-performance cloud connectivity.As enterprise applications continue to proliferate, the demand for flexibility, top-notch performance, robust security, and effective oversight is on the rise. InterCloud emerges as the exclusive provider of software-defined cloud interconnect solutions, delivering a managed service that places a strong emphasis on security. Our API-first platform not only simplifies but also accelerates network management, resulting in enhanced performance and increased visibility. By partnering with leading cloud service providers (CSPs), we develop connectivity solutions tailored to the distinct needs of your organization. InterCloud guarantees that your essential applications remain securely connected, offering comprehensive protection and optimal performance for your data as it transitions from your local infrastructure to various cloud environments through private connectivity provided by CSPs. Furthermore, we manage the design and execution of Internet exchange peering to boost the performance of your online applications, ensuring that your organization functions seamlessly and efficiently. With our focus on continual innovation, we are committed to adapting our solutions as your business evolves and the technology landscape changes. -
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Versa SASE
Versa Networks
Unlock secure, scalable networking with innovative integrated solutions.Versa SASE delivers a complete range of services through its innovative VOS™ platform, which includes security, networking, SD-WAN, and analytics in one cohesive package. Engineered to integrate effortlessly within even the most complex ecosystems, Versa SASE guarantees both flexibility and adaptability for straightforward, scalable, and secure deployments. By merging security, networking, SD-WAN, and analytics into a singular software operating system, it can be utilized in cloud environments, on-premises, or through a hybrid approach. This all-encompassing solution not only facilitates secure, scalable, and reliable networking and security across the enterprise but also boosts the performance of multi-cloud applications while effectively lowering expenses. Designed as a fully integrated solution that boasts top-notch security, advanced networking capabilities, leading SD-WAN features, true multi-tenancy, and sophisticated analytics, Versa SASE functions on an Enterprise-class carrier-grade platform (VOS™) that is adept at managing high volumes. Its robust capabilities position it as a standout technology in the Secure Access Service Edge domain. Consequently, Versa SASE becomes an essential tool for organizations aiming to refine their networking and security strategies while maintaining a competitive edge in the market. By leveraging this advanced platform, businesses can achieve greater operational efficiency and enhance their overall digital transformation initiatives. -
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Tungsten Fabric
Tungsten Fabric
Streamline your network with advanced security and efficiency.Tackle the difficulties posed by intricate tools and overwhelming workloads by adopting an all-in-one networking and security solution. Streamlining your toolset allows for a significant reduction in time wasted on disruptive context shifts, effectively alleviating the fatigue often associated with constant toggling between applications. TF stands out for its exceptional plugin integration, frequently surpassing the basic functionalities found in many other SDN plugins to deliver advanced features. It promotes smooth network interactions, ensuring that your infrastructure operates as a cohesive unit by adhering to well-established open protocol standards in both the control and data planes. The open-source framework of TF encourages ongoing innovation from a diverse group of contributors, providing the versatility to customize outcomes according to your unique requirements or to work alongside reliable vendors. Additionally, it offers the ability to implement namespace isolation and micro-segmentation tailored to individual microservices, enabling the creation of specific security policies and configurations for different tenants. This level of customization and flexibility not only enhances network security but also streamlines operational processes, making TF an indispensable asset for organizations aiming to improve their overall efficiency and security posture. As the landscape of networking and security evolves, leveraging such a comprehensive solution becomes increasingly essential for staying competitive. -
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HPE Synergy
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Transform your infrastructure for agility, efficiency, and innovation.HPE Synergy provides a versatile, software-driven infrastructure designed for hybrid cloud environments, enabling the formation of adaptable pools of physical and virtual computing, storage, and networking resources configured in any desired manner for diverse workloads, all governed through a unified API and offered as a service via HPE GreenLake. This system allows you to manage a cohesive infrastructure that can accommodate both current applications and prospective advancements, even as their infrastructure demands and service-level requirements may vary significantly. Not only does this methodology accelerate the delivery of applications and services through an easy-to-use interface that can set up infrastructure nearly instantaneously, but it also includes sophisticated software-defined intelligence, powered by HPE OneView, which allows for service deployments in just minutes with a single line of code. By adopting this setup, your organization can enhance its agility with an infrastructure tailored for developers that simplifies operations. Additionally, the consolidated API promotes the automation of infrastructure tasks and integrates effortlessly with a wide range of partner solutions, driving both efficiency and innovation. Ultimately, HPE Synergy empowers businesses to adapt quickly to changing market demands while optimizing resource utilization. -
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QTS Switchboard
QTS Data Centers
Transform your networking experience with effortless, rapid connectivity.Experience seamless connectivity with our fully automated, software-defined service that connects you to an extensive network of data centers, public clouds, and integrated QTS IP internet services, all achievable from a single port in mere minutes. Powered by our state-of-the-art API-driven Service Delivery Platform, QTS Switchboard ensures effortless, self-service provisioning to a multitude of destinations, all initiated from one exclusive port. Our distinctive method of utilizing one port for multiple connections enables the swift establishment of various virtual links designed for different applications, all configured in just a few minutes. Benefit from rapid interconnectivity among clients within any QTS data center, and effortlessly link two QTS data centers situated in the same metropolitan area. Moreover, you can directly connect from a QTS data center to local carrier hotels and access other prominent QTS mega data centers located in key markets. The service also simplifies connections to leading cloud providers such as AWS, Azure, Google, and Oracle Cloud, guaranteeing both flexibility and scalability for your network requirements. This groundbreaking solution not only enhances connectivity in the digital landscape but also empowers businesses to innovate and grow without limitations. Ultimately, it transforms the way organizations approach their networking strategies in an increasingly interconnected world. -
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Cradlepoint NetCloud Service
Cradlepoint
Empowering seamless connectivity with innovative cloud-based wireless solutions.Cradlepoint stands out as a worldwide frontrunner in delivering cloud-based 4G and 5G wireless network edge solutions. Their NetCloud™ platform, along with cellular routers, creates a robust, secure, and software-defined Wireless WAN edge that seamlessly connects individuals, locations, devices, and everything in between, no matter where they are. With over 25,000 government and business clients worldwide, including numerous Global 2000 organizations and leading public sector agencies, Cradlepoint is a trusted partner for maintaining connectivity at crucial sites, commercial points, field teams, and vehicles. Founded in 2006, the company was acquired by Ericsson in late 2020 and now operates as a distinct subsidiary within Ericsson’s Business Area Technologies and New Businesses. Headquartered in Boise, Idaho, Cradlepoint also boasts development facilities in Silicon Valley and India, along with international offices in the UK and Australia, showcasing its commitment to global reach and innovation in wireless solutions. The company's strategic position and technological advancements continue to enhance how entities manage their network needs across diverse environments. -
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DX Virtual Network Assurance
Broadcom
Elevate your network visibility and reliability effortlessly today!DX Virtual Network Assurance significantly boosts the visibility and reliability of SDN/NFV networks by utilizing network monitoring solutions from CA Technologies, which is part of Broadcom. For the successful deployment of contemporary network architectures, having a consolidated NetOps portal is crucial. These advanced monitoring tools enable the efficient administration of both traditional and cutting-edge technologies, such as SDN, NFV, SDDC, SD-WAN, and cloud services, all accessible through a single dashboard interface. They provide detailed visualizations of complex Cisco ACI environments, guaranteeing dependable deployment and ongoing health assessments. Additionally, our network monitoring solutions empower you to identify and map your Cisco ACI configurations alongside existing infrastructure, offering a clear representation of the new network abstraction. This seamless integration clarifies the connection between established physical networks and next-generation virtualized technologies, ultimately enhancing overall network visibility and aiding in strategic planning. Furthermore, this approach fosters proactive management of potential challenges, ensuring a more resilient and adaptive network environment.
Software-Defined Networking Solutions Buyers Guide
Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is a transformative approach to network management that fundamentally changes how networks are designed and operated. By decoupling the network control plane from the data plane, SDN introduces a more flexible and programmable network architecture. This separation allows for centralized control and management of network resources, which enhances efficiency, scalability, and adaptability.
Key Concepts of SDN
SDN revolves around several core concepts that redefine traditional networking practices:
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Control Plane and Data Plane Separation: Traditionally, network devices such as routers and switches manage both data forwarding (data plane) and control decisions (control plane). In SDN, these functions are separated, with the control plane centralized in a network controller. This separation allows for more dynamic and centralized management of network resources.
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Network Controller: The network controller is a software-based component that manages the control plane. It provides a centralized point of control, issuing instructions to network devices in the data plane. The controller is responsible for network configuration, traffic management, and policy enforcement.
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Southbound APIs: Southbound Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) are used by the network controller to communicate with and configure network devices. These APIs define how the controller interacts with switches, routers, and other network hardware to manage traffic and enforce policies.
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Northbound APIs: Northbound APIs allow applications and network services to interact with the SDN controller. They enable developers to create custom applications that leverage SDN’s capabilities for enhanced network functionality and automation.
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Network Virtualization: SDN supports network virtualization by abstracting network resources from the underlying hardware. This abstraction allows for the creation of virtual networks that can be dynamically configured and managed independently of physical infrastructure.
Benefits of SDN
Software-Defined Networking offers several key benefits that enhance network performance and management:
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Increased Flexibility: SDN enables rapid and dynamic reconfiguration of network resources. Network administrators can adjust network settings and policies in real-time to respond to changing demands and conditions.
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Centralized Management: By consolidating network control into a single controller, SDN simplifies network management. Administrators can make global changes and enforce policies from a unified interface, reducing the complexity and time required for network management tasks.
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Enhanced Visibility: SDN provides detailed visibility into network traffic and performance. This transparency allows for better monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimization of network operations, leading to improved overall network performance.
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Improved Efficiency: Through programmability and automation, SDN can optimize resource utilization, reduce network congestion, and enhance overall efficiency. Automated traffic management and policy enforcement help streamline operations and minimize manual intervention.
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Cost Reduction: SDN can lower costs by using commodity hardware and reducing the need for specialized network appliances. Additionally, the streamlined management and automation capabilities of SDN can decrease operational costs.
Use Cases of SDN
SDN is applicable in various scenarios, providing solutions for diverse networking challenges:
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Data Center Management: SDN enhances data center operations by allowing for scalable and flexible network configurations. It supports efficient resource allocation and automated provisioning in data center environments.
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Cloud Networking: In cloud environments, SDN facilitates dynamic network provisioning and management. It supports the creation of virtual networks that can be tailored to specific cloud service requirements.
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Enterprise Networks: Organizations use SDN to improve network agility and efficiency within enterprise environments. SDN helps streamline network operations, enhance security, and support complex network architectures.
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Network Function Virtualization (NFV): SDN works in conjunction with NFV to virtualize network functions, such as firewalls and load balancers. This virtualization reduces reliance on dedicated hardware and allows for more flexible network configurations.
Challenges and Considerations
While SDN provides numerous benefits, it also presents challenges and considerations:
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Security: Centralizing network control introduces potential security risks. It is crucial to implement robust security measures to protect against vulnerabilities and unauthorized access.
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Complexity: Transitioning to an SDN architecture can be complex and requires careful planning and integration. Organizations must manage the complexity of deploying and maintaining SDN solutions.
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Interoperability: Ensuring compatibility between SDN solutions and existing network infrastructure is essential for a smooth deployment. Interoperability issues can arise when integrating SDN with legacy systems and hardware.
In summary, Software-Defined Networking represents a significant advancement in network management, offering increased flexibility, centralized control, and enhanced efficiency. By separating the control plane from the data plane, SDN enables more dynamic and programmable network environments. However, successful implementation requires addressing challenges related to security, complexity, and interoperability.