How can you use virtualization for network automation with NSM?

Using virtualization with NSM in network automation enhances flexibility and resource optimization. It allows multiple virtual networks on a single physical infrastructure, streamlining tasks like configuration, scaling, and security. Rapid provisioning and adaptability to network changes are facilitated, simplifying complex network management. This integration results in efficient, cost-effective operations, increasing network agility and scalability. Virtualization and NSM together provide a powerful solution for advanced network management, addressing modern networking challenges effectively and ensuring reliable network performance.

Network virtualization combines hardware and software network resources into a single, software-based network or transforms a physical network into separate virtual ones. It works by decoupling network services from the underlying hardware and allowing virtual provisioning of your network, enabling IT professionals to create, provision, and manage their networks entirely in software. As a result, new services and applications can be deployed quickly, and network traffic can be managed more effectively and efficiently. In addition, network virtualization improves security by allowing organizations to segment their networks and isolate trusted networks from untrusted ones.

Virtualization in network automation provides flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. It allows quick provisioning, migration, and isolation of virtual network devices, optimizing resource usage and enhancing security. By reducing expenses and simplifying management, virtualization is crucial for modern network operations.

Application Performance Challenge: Once a business has migrated to a virtualized system, they may find that things are not working as seamlessly as they should. Legacy systems may cause problems with newer virtualized software and programs, older software may not be compatible with virtualization, or current applications may not be performing… even with virtualization. Solution: A solution will depend on several factors, including the VM setup and whether there’s legacy software or updated software. Run tests to identify any resources being overutilized or work with an MSP to look for compatibility issues between software and VM. Typically, MSPs will be able to locate and pinpoint areas more quickly.

Virtualization in network automation presents challenges such as complexity in managing multiple virtual network devices and ensuring compatibility with physical infrastructure. Testing and validating functionality before deployment is crucial, along with ongoing monitoring and troubleshooting to address issues effectively. Additionally, application performance can be affected due to compatibility issues between legacy and virtualized software, necessitating thorough testing and potential collaboration with managed service providers for resolution.

Network security management benefits Updating to next-generation network security management has many advantages. Robust endpoint security Network security management systems enable the smooth roll-out of Endpoint Detection Response tools. EDR tools work on every network node. They track traffic passing through endpoints, checking for malicious agents or suspicious behavior. NSM systems also support traditional firewall defenses via automated patching. Firewalls must remain current to meet emerging threats. Deploying updates as they become available secures every endpoint. The same update management benefits apply to malware and virus scanners. Both security functions should be present and updated for every network endpoint.

NSM, or Network Security Management, is a framework for simplifying virtualization in network automation. It provides a standardized approach for describing, discovering, and connecting virtual network services. NSM enables dynamic and secure network service chains and integrates with service meshes like Istio and Linkerd. It streamlines network security operations by automating patching and deploying security tools like EDR, firewalls, and malware scanners.

NSM operates by coordinating between network service endpoints (NSEs) and clients (NSCs) through network service managers (NSMs). NSEs provide services like firewalls or load balancers, while NSCs consume these services. NSMs oversee this interaction, ensuring seamless communication based on defined service parameters. Using a data plane, NSM establishes connections using various technologies, enhancing network efficiency and security.