SDN: Behind the Buzzword - TECH.unplugged

SDN: Behind The Buzzword

Amsterdam, 24th September 2015Tom Hollingsworth

Who Is The Networking Nerd?• Over a decade of network engineering and architecture experience• Blogging, writing, and prognostication• Access to early-stage startups through Tech Field Day organization


What is SDN?

*Remember, everything must be more reliable and easier to use!!!


SDN DefinedA modern, disaggregated network with programmable

interfaces that can be orchestrated and automated to reduce workload and improve reliability.


SDN Mythsor, how I learned to stop worrying and start loving all things

software defined


Myth #1: SDN is going to take my job!• Mid-tier management jobs are likely affected• Low-level installers will always be needed• Think of the conversion of server admins from bare metal to virtualization


Myth #2: SDN is just marketing!• It’s only marketing if you believe that way• SDN has already generated several

networking advances


Myth #2: SDN is just marketing!• Marketing heavy problems come from traditional marketing departments• See also: “Whitebox Switching/Fabrics/NFV/OpenFlow are/is SDN”

(Marketing gone wrong)


Myth #3: SDN is forcing me to program!• SDN adds programmability, but doesn’t require you to be one• Think of mobile phones: You don’t need to be a developer, but you can if

you want


SDN Truthsor, You *can* handle the truth!


Truth #1: SDN is a process, not a product

• SDN is a feature (no magic quadrant)• Just like security, you have to build it in to everything


Truth #2: Your Organization Hates You• Biggest SDN barrier is existing organization• Look to DevOps for ideas on how to transform


Truth #3: SDN Isn’t A Destination• SDN transforms your network but never ends• Don’t get hung up on the results but focus on the journey


Get Involved with SDN• Read blogs, articles, and interviews• Watch videos (http://TechFieldDay.com)• Talk SDN on social media


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SDN: Behind the Buzzword - TECH.unplugged