Enterprises, both large and small, run their clouds using OpenStack software. While the clouds themselves may vary in complexity, one thing is common: they are made possible by the scalability and flexibility of OpenStack Compute and Networking services.

Modern cloud computing platforms, such as OpenStack, rely on a method of networking known as software-defined networking, or SDN. Traditional network administration relies heavily on the administrator to manually configure and maintain physical network hardware and connectivity. SDN, on the other hand, allows network administrators to manage network services in an abstract and automated manner. Software-defined networking, and the software-defined data center as a whole, is often regarded as a necessary foundation for scalable and efficient cloud computing.

In this chapter, you will be introduced to the different components and features of OpenStack Networking, codenamed Neutron, as well as various methods in which Neutron can be deployed and configured from both software and hardware perspectives. Throughout the book, the Neutron moniker will often be used in place of the official name.