Computer Networks

Assignment 1

Registration No: 21-SE-78

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) Assessed:

CLO 1: Describe architectures, protocols, and operation mechanisms of computer networks.

Criteria Completeness Originality Presentation Timeliness Final

Skills/ Score
Writing Skills

Total 4 2 2 2 10
Marks
Obtained
Marks
Task:

Explore the topics/technologies below and discuss their important aspects.

1. Software Defined Networking
2. Network Function Virtualization
3. Green Networking

1. Software Defined Networking (SDN)

“SDN is an approach to networking that uses software-based controllers or application

programming interfaces (APIs) to direct traffic on the network and communicate with the
underlying hardware infrastructure.”

.Important aspects of SDN:

• Centralized control: The control plane in SDN is centralized, which gives network
administrators more visibility and control over the network.
• Programmability: The control plane in SDN is programmable, which means that
network administrators can write code to define how the network behaves.
• Agility: SDN makes it possible to create and deploy new services, such as firewalls
and load balancers quickly and easily.
• Scalability: SDN can be scaled to support large networks.

Benefits of SDN:

• Increased agility and flexibility

• Reduced operational costs.
• Improved security
• Enhanced network performance

Applications of SDN:

• Data centers
• Cloud computing
• Mobile networks
• Enterprise networks

2. Network Function Virtualization (NFV)

“NFV involves decoupling network functions, such as firewall, load balancing, and intrusion
detection, from dedicated hardware appliances and running them as software on general-
purpose servers.”

Important aspects of NFV:

• Virtualization: Network functions are virtualized, which means that they can be run
on standard servers.
• Standardization: NFV is based on open standards, which makes it easier for vendors
to develop interoperable products.
• Automation: NFV can be automated, which makes it easier to manage and deploy
network functions.

Benefits of NFV:

• Reduced costs
• Increased agility
• Improved scalability
• Enhanced network performance

Applications of NFV:

• Data centers
• Cloud computing
• Mobile networks
• Enterprise networks

3. Green Networking

“Green networking, also known as energy-efficient networking, involves designing and

implementing networks to minimize energy consumption and environmental impact.”

Important aspects of green networking:

• Energy efficiency: Green networking focuses on using energy-efficient hardware and

software.

• Resource utilization: Green networking aims to improve resource utilization by

virtualizing network functions and using power management software.
• Sustainability: Green networking is a key component of sustainable IT practices.
Benefits of green networking:

• Reduced energy consumption

• Lower operating costs
• Enhanced environmental sustainability.

Applications of green networking:

• Data centers
• Cloud computing
• Mobile networks
• Enterprise networks

Relationship between SDN, NFV, and Green Networking:

SDN, NFV, and green networking are all complementary technologies that can be used
together to create more agile, flexible, and energy-efficient networks. SDN provides the
control plane that is needed to manage virtualized network functions, while NFV allows
network functions to be virtualized and run on standard servers. Green networking provides
the technologies that are needed to make networks more energy efficient.