Objectives and outcomes
The course covers the basic concepts of network virtualisation and new network architecture. Special
attention is paid to software-defined networks and their theoretical and practical applications. Students will
be introduced to a new paradigm of computer networks that introduces a high level of flexibility in the
management and introduction of new services. Students study the theoretical applications of software-defined
networks and the possibilities of practical applications through the OpenFlow protocol.
Lectures
An overview of traditional network architectures. Packet switching. Data centres. Traditional switching
architectures. Autonomous and dynamic forwarding tables. Forwarding logic. Network Functions
Virtualisation (NFV). The need for a new virtualisation network framework. Benefits of NFV.
The concept of virtualisation of resources, networks and network functions. Application of NFV.
Software-defined networking (SDN). Evolution of network switches and control plan. SDN in data
centres. Evolution of network topologies. Steps towards the implementation of SDN. Sustainable SDN
interoperability. Basics of SDN networks and their characteristics. SDN operations. SDN devices. SDN
controllers. SDN applications. Alternative SDN methods. OpenFlow protocol. Alternative approaches and
new practical applications of SDN.
Research work
Selection of design tools and methodologies for SDN system design. System modelling. Design of
various systems based on defined requirements. Analysis of options for integration with different
technologies and types of networks. The study of standards and ways of functioning of OpenFlow protocol. Connecting controllers and monitoring network packets. Detailed analysis of OpenFlow messages. Practical application and capturing of packets using Wireshark protocol analyser.