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1
Understand the SDN architecture
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2
Choose the right SDN controller
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3
Deploy the SDN applications
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4
Configure the network devices
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5
Test and troubleshoot the SDN network
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6
Update and maintain the SDN network
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7
Here’s what else to consider
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Software-defined networking (SDN) is a way of managing and controlling network devices and traffic using software applications instead of hardware configurations. SDN can help network administrators improve network performance, security, scalability, and flexibility. But how do you use SDN in practice? Here are some steps and tips to get you started.
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1 Understand the SDN architecture
SDN consists of three main layers: the application layer, the control layer, and the data layer. The application layer contains the software programs that run on top of the SDN platform and provide network services and functions. The control layer is the brain of the SDN, where the SDN controller communicates with the network devices and orchestrates the network behavior. The data layer is the physical layer, where the network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls operate and forward packets according to the instructions from the control layer.
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2 Choose the right SDN controller
The SDN controller is the key component of the SDN architecture, as it acts as the interface between the application layer and the data layer. The SDN controller uses a standardized protocol, such as OpenFlow, to communicate with the network devices and implement the network policies and rules defined by the applications. There are different types of SDN controllers available, such as open-source, vendor-specific, or hybrid. You should choose the SDN controller that best suits your network requirements, budget, and compatibility.
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3 Deploy the SDN applications
The SDN applications are the software programs that provide the network functionality and services that you need. For example, you can use SDN applications to monitor network traffic, optimize network performance, enforce security policies, automate network provisioning, or enable network virtualization. You can either use existing SDN applications from third-party vendors or develop your own custom applications using SDN frameworks and APIs. You should deploy the SDN applications on the application layer and connect them to the SDN controller.
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4 Configure the network devices
The network devices are the hardware components that form the data layer of the SDN architecture. They are responsible for forwarding packets based on the instructions from the control layer. You should configure the network devices to support the SDN protocol that your SDN controller uses, such as OpenFlow. You should also enable the network devices to communicate with the SDN controller and register themselves as part of the SDN network. You can use a configuration tool or a script to automate this process.
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5 Test and troubleshoot the SDN network
Once you have deployed the SDN applications, configured the network devices, and established the communication between the layers, you should test and troubleshoot the SDN network to ensure that it works as expected. You should use tools and methods such as ping, traceroute, packet capture, log analysis, or simulation to verify the network connectivity, performance, security, and functionality. You should also monitor the SDN network for any errors, failures, or anomalies and fix them as soon as possible.
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6 Update and maintain the SDN network
The SDN network is not a static entity, but a dynamic and evolving one. You should update and maintain the SDN network regularly to keep up with the changing network demands, technologies, and standards. You should update the SDN controller, the SDN applications, and the network devices with the latest patches, features, and security fixes. You should also backup the SDN network configuration and data and restore them in case of a disaster. You should also review the SDN network performance and functionality and make adjustments or improvements as needed.
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7 Here’s what else to consider
This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?
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