
Software-Defined Networking: An Architectural Overview
In this episode of DeepDive, XatusBetaZx17 demystifies SDN—how decoupling the control plane from the data plane enables centralized controllers, policy-driven automation, and programmable networks. We’ll outline core components (controllers, southbound protocols like OpenFlow, northbound APIs), compare SDN designs (centralized vs. distributed controllers; overlays vs. underlay integration), and highlight real-world use cases (segmentation, traffic engineering, multi-cloud fabrics). You’ll leave with a clear mental model of SDN architecture and when to use it.
Resources & Links:
• Software-Defined Networking (SDN): Layers and Architecture Terminology (IETF RFC 7426)
https://www.rfc-editor.org/info/rfc7426 (RFC Editor)
• Software-Defined Networking (SDN) – Definition & Overview (Open Networking Foundation)
https://opennetworking.org/sdn-definition/ (Open Networking Foundation)
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