Best Network Function Virtualization Tools 2024: top suggestions

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) has become very popular because of the need for flexible, scalable, and effective solutions in today’s networking world. The search for the best Network Function Virtualization tools has become very important as companies try to improve their network infrastructure. These tools are very important for virtualizing network functions, which helps businesses be more flexible, cut costs, and come up with new ideas faster.

There are a lot of choices out there, so picking the best Network Function Virtualization Tools is important for getting the most out of virtualized networks. These tools make it easy for businesses to set up and manage virtualized network functions, which leads to a more efficient and adaptable network architecture. Below, we have mentioned the best Network Function Virtualization tools.

What is Network Function Virtualization Tool?

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) tools are computer programmes that let you virtualize network tasks that were previously done by special hardware devices. By running network services as software on standard hardware platforms, NFV tools give network operators more freedom and efficiency in how they set up and manage their networks. These tools separate network functions from the hardware they’re running on. This makes it easier to scale, automate, and organise network services while also lowering costs and making better use of resources.

Best Network Function Virtualization Tools Comparison Table

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) tools modernise networks. They virtualize network functions, decoupling them from hardware and enabling dynamic deployment and scaling. NFV tools like OpenStack, VMware NSX, and Cisco ACI transform network management and increase scalability and flexibility.

Red Hat OpenStack

Features:

• Open-source cloud computing platform.
• Scalable infrastructure for private and public clouds.
• Offers flexibility in deploying and managing cloud services.
• Integration with various hardware and software components.

The Red Hat Cloud computing platform OpenStack offers Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS). This open-source cloud platform uses OpenStack, a collection of open-source software projects that enable public and private cloud creation and management. OpenStack lets users deploy and manage virtual machines, storage, and networking components in a scalable and flexible cloud infrastructure. Still, it is one of the best Network Function Virtualization tools that you can consider.

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6D Lynx

Features:

• Advanced 3D visualization technology.
• Enables immersive virtual experiences.
• Supports interactive simulations and training.
• Used in various industries including gaming, architecture, and education.

6D’s Lynx transforms telecommunications by combining multiple VAS enabler applications into a single, optimized stack. Lynx seamlessly integrates with CSP core networks and IT infrastructure for real-time traffic monitoring, billing, customer support, reporting, and operational oversight. It helps CSPs improve operations, customer experiences, and telecommunications ecosystem management. Overall, it is one of the best Network Function Virtualization tools that you can consider.

Array AVX Series

Features:

• High-performance computing servers.
• Designed for demanding workloads and applications.
• Scalable architecture for evolving needs.
• Optimized for tasks like data analytics, machine learning, and rendering.

Array AVX Network Functions Platforms combine virtualization agility with dedicated appliance performance. AVX Series abstracts complexity and simplifies VA provisioning. Combine different-sized Array ADCs, SSL VPNs, and 3rd-party or open-source networking, security, and app delivery virtual appliances like NGFWs, WAFs. This is the best Network Function Virtualization tools that you can consider.

Nokia CloudBand

Features:

• Cloud management and orchestration platform.
• Enables efficient deployment and management of cloud services.
• Supports NFV (Network Functions Virtualization) and SDN (Software-Defined Networking).
• Enables operators to deliver innovative services with agility.

Nokia CloudBand is a platform for managing and orchestrating the cloud that helps network operators set up and run virtualized network functions (VNFs) and services more efficiently. It gives you the tools and infrastructure you need to build, deliver, and run cloud-based services in an automated and scalable way. Overall, this is one of the best Network Function Virtualization tools.

Netmaker

Features:

• Networking automation tool.
• Simplifies the configuration and management of networks.
• Supports dynamic mesh VPNs for secure communication.
• Enables easy deployment and scaling of network infrastructure.

Netmaker is a cutting-edge networking platform built on the WireGuard protocol. It was made by the small but innovative company WireGuard. It works with a lot of different environments, like edge, IoT, Kubernetes, and hybrid/multi-cloud setups. Netmaker provides users with unmatched integration and efficiency across a wide range of technologies, ensuring streamlined operations and better connectivity for today’s computing needs. Currently, this is one of the best Network Function Virtualization tools.

Benefits of Using NFV Tools for Network Management

Management tools for networks that make use of network functions virtualization (NFV) provide a number of advantages, including the opportunities that are listed below:

Flexibility and Scalability: NFV lets network functions be virtualized and run on regular hardware. This means that network operators can change the size of services as needed without having to make big changes to the hardware. This adaptability makes it easier to quickly add new services and change to meet new network needs.

Cost savings: By virtualizing network functions, NFV cuts down on the need for specialised hardware appliances. By combining hardware, cutting down on power use, and reducing the need for expensive proprietary equipment, this can save a lot of money.

Resource Optimisation: NFV lets you use resources more efficiently by letting multiple virtualized network functions run on the same piece of hardware. This optimisation helps get the most out of the resources that are available and makes the network run better overall.

Rapid Service Deployment: NFV speeds up service deployment by separating network functions from hardware. This means that new services can be put in place faster and better, which cuts down on the time it takes to get to market and makes businesses more competitive.

Dynamic Network Management: NFV makes dynamic network management possible by letting network functions be instantiated, scaled, and moved in real time based on how traffic patterns and service needs change. This ability for dynamic management helps to improve quality of service and make networks work better.

How to choose the Right NFV Tool for Your Network

Several things need to be thought about when picking the right Network Function Virtualization (NFV) tool for your network to make sure it fits your needs and infrastructure. Here is a structured way to help you decide what to do:

Figure out what your network needs: Know what you need from your network in terms of scalability, performance, security, and ease of management. Figure out what NFV use cases you want to cover, like service chaining, network automation, or virtualized network functions (VNFs).

Define Compatibility Requirements: Check to see if NFV tools will work with the hardware, software, protocols, and network infrastructure you already have. Think about things like whether it works with your network equipment and protocols and whether it supports industry standards like OpenStack, Kubernetes, or VMware.

Evaluate Feature Set: Look at the features that NFV tools offer and see how well they fit with the needs of your network. Some important things to look at are the ability to orchestrate, manage VNFs, service chain, slice networks, automate, monitor, and analyse data.

Scalability and Performance: Check the NFV tools’ scalability and performance to make sure they can handle the work your network needs. Look at things like how well resources are used, how load is distributed, how flexible it is, and how well it supports distributed architectures.

Security: When it comes to networks, security is very important. Check out how safe NFV tools are by looking at their security features such as encryption, access controls, threat detection, and making sure they follow all the rules and standards in the industry.

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