Software defined networking (SDN)

What is software-defined networking?

Software-defined networking (SDN) is an architecture designed to make a network more flexible and easier to manage. SDN centralizes management by abstracting the control plane from the data forwarding function in the discrete networking devices.

SDN elements

An SDN architecture delivers a centralized, programmable network and consists of the following:

• • • A controller, the core element of an SDN architecture, that enables centralized management and control, automation, and policy enforcement across physical and virtual network environments
    • Southbound APIs that relay information between the controller and the individual network devices (such as switches, access points, routers, and firewalls)
    • Northbound APIs that relay information between the controller and the applications and policy engines, to which an SDN looks like a single logical network device

Features and benefits

Simplify operations

Reduce complexity by decoupling the control and data planes, while making automation highly secure and scalable.

Achieve faster time to market

Deploy applications and services faster by leveraging open APIs. Easily integrate third-party products.

Build programmable networks

Eliminate manual configuration. Provision and manage data centers, campuses, and wide-area networks.

Lay the foundation for intent

Centralize configuration, management, control, monitoring, service delivery, and cloud automation.

Find the best SDN solution for you

For data center managers​​

Increase business agility: automate provisioning and operations, enhance security, and enable multicloud.

• • • Application-Centric Infrastructure (ACI)

For network managers

Design, provision, and manage highly secure networks that provide access to any application.

• • • DNA Center
    • SD-Access
    • SD-WAN
    • SD-Branch