Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) Architecture

Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) is a transformative concept in the realm of networking, revolutionizing the way network services are deployed and managed. NFV offers a flexible and cost-effective approach by virtualizing network functions that traditionally relied on dedicated hardware appliances. This article explores the fundamentals of NFV architecture, its working principles, its advantages, and the key components that constitute its architecture. 

What is network function virtualization or NFV?

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) is a technology that allows network services to be decoupled from proprietary hardware appliances and deployed as software-based virtualized instances on standard hardware platforms. It enables the consolidation and virtualization of multiple network functions, such as firewalls, routers, load balancers, and intrusion detection systems, onto commodity servers, switches, and storage.

How does NFV work?

NFV leverages virtualization technologies to enable the execution of network functions on general-purpose hardware. It involves the following key components and processes:

NFV Infrastructure (NFVI): NFVI is the foundation of the NFV architecture and provides the necessary computing, storage, and networking resources for hosting virtualized network functions (VNFs). It includes physical servers, switches, storage devices, and hypervisors that enable the creation and management of virtual machines (VMs) or containers to run VNFs.

Virtualized Network Functions (VNFs): VNFs are software instances that replace traditional network appliances. These virtualized functions can be instantiated, scaled, and managed independently from the underlying hardware. VNFs communicate with each other and with external systems to deliver network services.

NFV Orchestrator: The NFV Orchestrator plays a crucial role in NFV architecture. It manages the lifecycle of VNFs, including their deployment, scaling, and termination. The orchestrator also handles the allocation of resources and network service chaining and automates network service provisioning.

What are the advantages of NFV?

NFV brings several benefits to networking environments:

Cost Efficiency: NFV reduces capital and operational expenses by replacing expensive proprietary hardware with standardized hardware platforms. It enables resource pooling and dynamic allocation, resulting in better resource utilization.

Agility and Flexibility: NFV enables rapid service deployment, scalability, and elasticity. VNFs can be easily instantiated, modified, and scaled based on network demands, allowing for more agility in service provisioning.

Service Innovation: NFV promotes service innovation by enabling faster time-to-market for new services and features. It facilitates the introduction of new VNFs and the integration of third-party software solutions, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of NFV solutions.

What are the 3 main components of NFV architecture?

NFV architecture comprises of three main components:

NFV Infrastructure (NFVI): This component includes the physical hardware infrastructure, such as servers, switches, and storage devices, along with virtualization technologies like hypervisors or containers that provide the necessary computing, storage, and networking resources for hosting VNFs.

Virtualized Network Functions (VNFs): VNFs are software-based instances that replace traditional network functions. They run on the NFVI and are responsible for performing specific network tasks, such as routing, firewalling, or load balancing.

NFV Orchestrator: The NFV Orchestrator is a critical component responsible for managing the entire NFV infrastructure. It handles tasks such as VNF lifecycle management, resource allocation, service chaining, and network service orchestration. The orchestrator integrates with management and orchestration systems, ensuring seamless end-to-end service delivery.