In Chapter 3, SDN Protocols, we learned about the key protocols enabling SDN-based solutions and Open vSwitch implementation of OpenFlow. In this chapter, we will build on the knowledge to gain insights into how these components fit together to implement SDN networking. We will begin with lightweight virtual networking with a Linux network namespace and Open vSwitch functioning as a conventional L2 switch. We will then bring OpenFlow into the mix to depict the flow-based networking with virtual machines, interfacing with SDN Controller. We will introduce Mininet, a network emulation tool for prototyping network topologies. Finally, we will depict the architecture of Neutron, the networking component of OpenStack.
We will cover the following topics in this chapter:
Open vSwitch as L2 Switch with Network namespace
Open vSwitch as an OpenFlow Switch interface with SDN Controller
Open vSwitch and Mininet
OpenStack Neutron architecture