What Exactly is SDN? 

SDN stands for software-defined network. Software-defined networks are the semi-new hotness in the IT industry. But what exactly is an SDN?
At the heart of each SDN is a software management system. This application controller manages the entire software-defined network. At its very essence, this is what makes an SDN so powerful.
In a traditional network environment, network administrators need to configure each component in their networks manually. This leaves a lot of room for errors. Because components can’t speak with each at the software level, a traditional network also lacks new security and routing features.
Essentially, an SDN exists in two layers. The bottom layer of an SDN encompasses the hardware. The hardware only needs to be configured enough to ensure each component can communicate with each other. The software controller does the rest. That software controller works at the layer 3 level of the network.
For instance, if a network admin wants to connect multiple locations through a WAN, they don’t need to create the various mechanisms required to make that WAN function. They only need to configure that intent through the software controller.
That’s the power of an SDN. Network engineers only need to define the intent of the network. The application controller handles the construction of each network component after that.
How does the software controller manage an SDN autonomously? They use the power of the API.
APIs are powerful things. They expand the software-defined network beyond the management control interface. For instance, network engineers can use automation and orchestration frameworks to automate network deployment.
If you are familiar with Chef or Puppet, you might understand why this is such a big deal. Tools like Chef, Puppet, and Terraform can be used for network automation, management, and deployment. They can also be used to create self-healing networks, too!
This makes network configuration and deployment versionable. SVNs can be used with the SDN. If a network deployment breaks the system, it’s easy to roll that deployment back within moments. Version control software also creates documentation and history - a vital process in the IT world.
So, without further ado, watch this video and start learning today!
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