Container network functions: bringing NFV to the network edge

Cziva, R. and Pezaros, D. P. (2017) Container network functions: bringing NFV to the network edge. IEEE Communications Magazine, 55(6), pp. 24-31. (doi: 10.1109/MCOM.2017.1601039)

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Abstract

In order to cope with the increasing network utilization driven by new mobile clients, and to satisfy demand for new network services and performance guarantees, telecommunication service providers are exploiting virtualization over their network by implementing network services in virtual machines, decoupled from legacy hardware accelerated appliances. This effort, known as NFV, reduces OPEX and provides new business opportunities. At the same time, next generation mobile, enterprise, and IoT networks are introducing the concept of computing capabilities being pushed at the network edge, in close proximity of the users. However, the heavy footprint of today's NFV platforms prevents them from operating at the network edge. In this article, we identify the opportunities of virtualization at the network edge and present Glasgow Network Functions (GNF), a container-based NFV platform that runs and orchestrates lightweight container VNFs, saving core network utilization and providing lower latency. Finally, we demonstrate three useful examples of the platform: IoT DDoS remediation, on-demand troubleshooting for telco networks, and supporting roaming of network functions.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Cziva, Mr Richard and Pezaros, Professor Dimitrios
Authors: Cziva, R., and Pezaros, D. P.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Computing Science
Journal Name:IEEE Communications Magazine
Publisher:IEEE
ISSN:0163-6804
ISSN (Online):1558-1896
Published Online:12 June 2017
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2017 IEEE
First Published:First published in IEEE Communications Magazine 55(6):24-31
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher
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608831IMC2: Instrumentation, Measurement and Control for the CloudDimitrios PezarosEngineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)EP/L005255/1COM - COMPUTING SCIENCE