Network Function Virtualization: A Primer

Network function virtualization (NFV) and Software Defined Networking (SDN) are widely acknowledged as potential disruptive technologies of next generation computer networks. The network operators are pushing the frontiers of NFV to reduce operational expenditure (OPEX) and capital expenditure (CAPEX). Network vendors and academic researchers look upon NFV as an opportunity to speed up innovation in modern networks. NFV also opens the space for rapid innovation in network services by reducing the cost of deployment and maturation cycle duration. This article describes the origins of NFV, its current state-ofthe- art architecture, development tools, use cases, and its relationship with SDN. This article also brings forth the challenges this field holds for the academia and industry.