Experimental wireless network deployment of software-defined and virtualized networking in 5G environments

Abstract

5G research has been looking for flexible, dynamic and low-latency network architectures. In this regard, Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) have been key enablers for the next generation networks. Although SDN was originally designed for wired networks, such as datacentre networks, its popularity in the research community has extended its boundaries, also becoming considered for wireless networks. With its flexibility and programmability, Software-Defined Wireless Networks (SDWN) have been suggested for mobile networks evolution. This chapter provides an overview of how virtualization of network entities (such as points of attachment and flow-based mobility management entities) can contribute to a new level of abstraction in heterogeneous wireless access environments. To assess the enhancement potential of such mechanisms, a framework case study is presented and evaluated, showcasing flow-based mobility scenarios in multi-technology environments.