NetworkTigers on the power of software-defined network virtualization.
Network virtualization is the transformation of a network from hardware-dependent to software-based. Network virtualization allows network control, hardware and software resource allocation, and other functions to be delivered via software instead of hardware. A virtual network can also be created to consolidate multiple existing hardware-based networks into a single system that can be managed as one.
Network virtualization lifts functionality from a system’s physical architecture into a centralized software pane. This allows network administrators to take a high-level look at all of the components encompassed in their system, allowing for a comprehensive look at a network’s configuration, management, and overall functionality.
As organizations continue to move their IT technology to the cloud and adopt hardware-free approaches to networking, virtualization will only become more commonplace.
How network virtualization can benefit your business
Network management simplified
By using a singular virtual platform, network administration is simplified. With centralized control, IT professionals can configure settings, prioritize traffic patterns, and allocate resources quickly and more efficiently. Administration is significantly streamlined by reducing the time and thought it takes to focus on each network component independently and providing greater visibility.
Easier segmentation
Network segmentation has many benefits, from better security to streamlined resource usage. A virtual network is easier to break up than a physical one. It can be divided as needed or even put back together with ease. A virtualized network is highly configurable.
Better security
Virtual networks offer more options with regard to security, thanks to the ease with which they can be segmented and isolated.
Containerization, a process that sees the operating system create isolated spaces for every application, is also possible with network virtualization. Containerization allows all apps to function as if they are the only ones in use. By preventing one application from seeing or communicating with other running programs, the potential impact of an attack or intrusion is lessened.
Because virtual networks can be intensely monitored, any abnormalities or suspicious activity can be detected faster.
Network virtualization makes migrating easier
A virtualized network is easy to relocate. Because it is not connected to the physical components of your system, it can be moved to other locations or data centers without issue. This tremendous security benefit allows an IT team to recover from a disaster quickly.
Headache-free scaling
From running endless cables to ensuring proper configuration at the device level, physically scaling a network is time-consuming and demanding. A virtualized network can be expanded as needed. Administrators can add virtual networks or modify their systems to accommodate business needs, adapt to traffic influxes, and take advantage of increased agility.
Superior performance and reliability
A virtualized network creates redundancy, whereas a hardware-based network can be brought to its knees if a component crashes. A failure can be accommodated automatically in a virtual environment by switching to an alternative device. This allows for less downtime in the event of equipment breakdown.
Network virtualization saves money
Network virtualization can help your organization’s bottom line by requiring less hardware. A software-based network can encompass equipment and devices from a wide range of manufacturers, removing obstacles introduced by hardware that otherwise demands proprietary compatibility or is expensive to purchase.
For example, network services such as firewalls, VPNs, and load balancers can be packaged as virtual machines or containers on commodity hardware.
By purchasing refurbished networking equipment and creating a virtual network, your business can create robust architecture and still remain within budget.
Better security
Virtual networks offer more options with regard to security, thanks to the ease with which they can be segmented and isolated.
Containerization is also possible with network virtualization. This process sees the operating system create isolated spaces for every application. This allows all apps to function as if they are the only ones in use. By preventing one application from seeing or communicating with other programs running, you can reduce the potential impact of an attack or intrusion.
Because virtual networks are easier to monitor, any abnormalities or suspicious activity can be detected faster.
Network virtualization challenges
While virtualization increases efficiency and yields many long-term benefits, moving from a hardware-based network is not without its hurdles.
Network virtualization demands a plan
Making a network-wide overhaul has to be undertaken carefully and with a tremendous degree of preparation and planning. From allocating CPU resources to rolling out your virtualization in a way that keeps business moving along, evolving incrementally and intelligently is key to preventing your plans for improvement from becoming a disaster.
New skills are needed
There is a learning curve to network virtualization, as it adds an overlay atop traditional hardware implementation, maintenance, and deployment. IT staff must be trained to fully understand how to reap the benefits of a virtualized network and properly man the helm.
New communication is needed
IT administrators are traditionally compartmentalized into skill silos with different teams or individuals having specialized expertise areas. Because a virtual network results in overlapping many of these areas, it’s more important than ever for team members to understand what everyone is doing and work together as a unit.
Automation still requires administration
While the possibilities for greater automation within a virtualized network can improve efficiency significantly, great care must be taken to monitor these processes to ensure success. Because a virtual network uses a centralized pane to address the entire architecture, multiple components must work in perfect unison to prevent bottlenecks or conflicts downstream.
To accommodate this, administrators need to take their attention away from the minute tasks that are now automated and adopt a more holistic look at the automation processes themselves.
Monitoring requires careful setup
In a traditional network, components can be physically examined and inspected. A virtual network allows for much deeper visibility but must be configured appropriately. Additionally, visibility is not just a convenience but a necessity due to the multitude of components and processes within a virtual network that needs to work in concert.