OpenFlow

What does OpenFlow mean?

OpenFlow is a Software-Defined [Networking](https://amazingalgorithms.com/definitions/networking) (SDN) protocol that enables network administrators to programmatically control and manage network devices such as switches and routers. It allows for the decoupling of the network control plane from the data plane, giving administrators more flexibility and control over their networks. With OpenFlow, network administrators can define and enforce network policies, configure network topology, and monitor network traffic in a centralized manner.

OpenFlow operates on the principle of separation of network control and data forwarding. The network control plane, implemented by an SDN controller, is responsible for making high-level decisions about network traffic, such as routing and load balancing. The data plane, implemented by network devices such as switches and routers, is responsible for actually forwarding traffic according to the instructions received from the controller.

OpenFlow provides a standardized interface between the control plane and the data plane, allowing network administrators to programmatically configure and manage network devices from a central location. This centralized control enables administrators to automate network management tasks, reduce network complexity, and improve network performance and security.

Applications

OpenFlow finds applications in a wide range of networking scenarios, including:

Data Center Networking: OpenFlow is widely used in data centers to provide flexible and scalable Network Infrastructure. It allows administrators to dynamically configure network topologies and policies to meet changing application requirements, such as load balancing, failover, and traffic isolation.

Cloud Computing: OpenFlow is also employed in cloud computing environments to enable multi-tenancy and resource isolation. It allows multiple tenants to share network infrastructure while maintaining isolation and security.

Network Virtualization: OpenFlow plays a crucial role in network virtualization, where it enables the creation and management of virtual networks on top of shared physical infrastructure. It allows administrators to provision, configure, and manage virtual networks on demand.

Software-Defined WAN (SD-WAN): OpenFlow is used in SD-WAN solutions to provide secure and reliable WAN connectivity over multiple Internet links. It allows administrators to optimize traffic routing, prioritize applications, and monitor network performance from a centralized location.

History

The development of OpenFlow can be traced back to 2008, when the Open Networking Foundation (ONF) was established by Stanford University and several industry leaders to promote the adoption of SDN. In 2011, the ONF released the first version of the OpenFlow specification, which defined the protocol for communication between the SDN controller and network devices.

Since then, OpenFlow has undergone several revisions and enhancements, with the latest version being OpenFlow 1.6.1. The protocol has gained widespread adoption in the networking industry, and many vendors offer network devices and SDN controllers that support OpenFlow.