Software-definiertes Netzwerk (SDN)

Software-Defined Networking, or SDN, is an architectural approach that separates network control from the actual forwarding of data traffic. The control plane determines network paths and policies, while the data plane forwards traffic across network devices. Centralised or logically centralised SDN control enables switches, routers and other network components to be configured programmatically and policies to be implemented automatically. Interfaces and APIs allow applications to communicate with the control layer and manage network resources according to operational requirements. SDN therefore supports Network Automation, flexible network configuration and centralised management of complex IT infrastructures. The approach is particularly relevant in data centres, cloud environments, campus networks and software-defined WAN infrastructures.