OpenFlow and Ryu Controllers Software Defined Networking
Summary: OpenFlow Controller in Software
Defined Networks
Overview
OpenFlow is one of the first and most widely adopted protocols for communication be-
tween the control plane and data plane in Software Defined Networking (SDN). It enables
a centralized controller to programmatically manage network behavior by modifying the
flow tables in network devices such as switches and routers.
Architecture
• Control Plane: Managed by a centralized OpenFlow controller that makes decisions.
• Data Plane: Comprised of OpenFlow-enabled switches that forward packets based
on flow tables.
Key Components
• Flow Tables: Contain rules for packet matching and actions (e.g., forward, drop).
• Secure Channel: Allows communication between the controller and switches.
• OpenFlow Protocol: Used to install, delete, or modify flow entries.
How It Works
1. Packet arrives at switch.
2. If no matching rule, switch sends packet-in to controller.
3. Controller sends back flow-mod to install rule.
4. Switch handles future packets based on the new rule.
Significance
• Centralized network control and visibility.
• Facilitates network automation and programmability.
• Enables vendor interoperability and innovation in networking applications.
Limitations
• Latency due to controller-switch interaction.
• Scalability concerns for very large networks.
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OpenFlow and Ryu Controllers Software Defined Networking
• Limited flexibility in handling complex traffic logic.
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OpenFlow and Ryu Controllers Software Defined Networking
Summary: Ryu Controller in Software
Defined Networks
Overview
Ryu is an open-source SDN controller framework developed in Python. It supports the
OpenFlow protocol and provides a clean, flexible API for creating network management
and automation applications. Ryu is popular in both academia and industry for proto-
typing SDN solutions.
Key Features
• Python-based: Easy to learn and integrate with Python libraries.
• Modular: Supports plug-and-play applications for different tasks.
• Protocol Support: OpenFlow 1.0 to 1.5, OF-config, Netconf, etc.
• Rich API: For packet parsing, flow management, topology discovery, and more.
Architecture
• Core Ryu Services: Manage OpenFlow interaction and message parsing.
• User Applications: Define control logic via events and APIs.
• Datapaths: Represent each connected OpenFlow switch.
How It Works
1. Ryu connects to OpenFlow-enabled switches via TCP.
2. Switches send events like packet-in to Ryu.
3. Developer-defined apps handle events and use Ryu APIs to manage flows.
Significance
• Simplifies rapid development of SDN applications.
• Ideal for learning and prototyping network automation.
• Well-documented and supported by a strong community.
Use Cases
• Learning switch
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OpenFlow and Ryu Controllers Software Defined Networking
• Network monitoring
• Load balancing
• Access control and firewalling
