NFV vs. SDN: 10 Key Differences

SDN

NFV

Deployment

Running on network controllers, VMs, load balancers, hypervisors are configured and deployed to get the needed level of infrastructure control.

A diversity of functions, such as firewalls and SD-WAN, are deployed as software on the virtualized infrastructure.  

Management

The management is done via the centralized control console.

Network functions are centrally monitored and managed, and it doesn’t matter where they are located in the network.

Price

The spending can be saved because of the automation of the network configuration, changes, and additions.

Because such an approach excludes the necessity for specialized network hardware for every function. It allows for to use of less cooling, power, and equipment in the data centers.

Flexibility

Easily adjustable due to the programmable infrastructure with the help of the management consoles and scripting.

To support proofs of concept, there is a quick decommission and deployment of functions. Because of the location of functions at the network edge, it is possible to optimize performance and security.

SDN

NFV

Scope

Specify the bigger-picture aspects of the network – services, type of infrastructure, and apps. Defines the polices which guide the delivery and use of resources. Hypervisor controls low-level functions and orchestrates.

Defines a diversity of specific functions that are done at all the various levels of the network – core, periphery, and boundary.

Standards

There are different vendor-neutral and open standards for the communication interface between forwarding layers and control.

Global applicable standards for the telecommunication and information technologies.

Architecture

Based on the data centers.

Targeted at operators or service providers.

Management

Programming of the network and centralized control.

Network functions are transferring from dedicated appliances to virtual servers.

Protocol

OpenFlow is a communication protocol.

No protocol yet.

Support

Open Networking Foundation.

ETSI NFV Working Group.

Initiative supporters

Hardware vendors and different enterprise network software.

Operators and telecom service providers.

Business initiator

Corporate IT Act.

Operators act or service providers.

Function on

Switches or industry-standard servers.

industry-standard servers.

Application

-        Networking

-        Orchestration

-        Firewalls, routers, gateways

-        WAN accelerators

-        SLA assurance

-        Video Servers

-        CDN