Software-Defined Networking: An Architectural Overview

Software-Defined Networking: An Architectural Overview In this episode of DeepDive, XatusBetaZx17 demystifies SDN—how decoupling the control plane from the data plane enables centralized controllers, policy-driven automation, and programmable networks. We’ll outline core components (controllers, southbound protocols like OpenFlow, northbound APIs), compare SDN designs (centralized vs. distributed controllers; overlays vs. underlay integration), and highlight real-world use cases (segmentation, traffic engineering, multi-cloud fabrics). You’ll leave with a clear mental model of SDN architecture and when to use it. Resources & Links: • Software-Defined Networking (SDN): Layers and Architecture Terminology (IETF RFC 7426) https://www.rfc-editor.org/info/rfc7426 (RFC Editor) • Software-Defined Networking (SDN) – Definition & Overview (Open Networking Foundation) https://opennetworking.org/sdn-definition/ (Open Networking Foundation) • Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app!