Network Virtualization

Virtualization is the ability to simulate a hardware platform, such as a server, storage device or network resource, in software. All of the functionality is separated from the hardware and simulated as a “virtual instance,” with the ability to operate just like the traditional, hardware solution would. Of course, somewhere there is host hardware supporting the virtual instances of these resources, but this hardware can be general, off-the-shelf platforms. In addition, a single hardware platform can be used to support multiple virtual devices or machines, which are easy to spin up or down as needed. As a result, a virtualized solution is typically much more portable, scalable and cost-effective than a traditional hardware-based solution.

Applying Virtualization to the Network

When applied to a network, virtualization creates a logical software-based view of the hardware and software networking resources (switches, routers, etc.). The physical networking devices are simply responsible for the forwarding of packets, while the virtual network (software) provides an intelligent abstraction that makes it easy to deploy and manage network services and underlying network resources. As a result, NV can align the network to better support virtualized environments.

NV and White Box Switching

As it stands, the trend is toward using NV to create overlay networks on top of physical hardware. Concurrently, using network virtualization reduces costs on the physical (underlay) network by using white box switches. Referring to the use of generic, off-the-shelf switches and routers, white box networking limits expenditures by not using expensive proprietary switches. NV also contributes to decreased expenses by relying on the intelligence of the overlay to provide necessary advanced network functionality and features.

Virtual Networks

NV can be used to create virtual networks within a virtualized infrastructure. This enables NV to support the complex requirements in multi-tenancy environments. NV can deliver a virtual network within a virtual environment that is truly separate from other network resources. In these instances, NV can separate traffic into a zone or container to ensure traffic does not mix with other resources or the transfer of other data.