Referring to FIG. 1, an example overview of Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) is depicted. By way of an overview, NFV aims to transform the way that network operators architect networks. In particular, IT virtualization technology is being used to consolidate many network equipment types onto industry standard high volume servers, switches and storage, which can be located in data centers, network nodes, and in the end user premises. Network functions (e.g., mobility management, session management, QoS) can be implemented in software, and the network functions can run on a range of industry standard server hardware. The functions can be moved to, or instantiated in, various locations in the network as required, without the need for installation of new equipment. FIG. 1 illustrates one example of an architectural framework for NFV that has been provided by ETSI.
It is recognized herein that NFV may be applied to any data plane packet processing and control plane function in mobile and fixed networks. Examples include, presented without limitation:
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- Switching elements (e.g., BNG, CG-NAT, routers)
- Mobile network nodes (e.g., HLR/HSS, MME, SGSN, GGSN/PDN-GW, RNC, eNodeB)
- Functions contained in home routers and set top boxes to create virtualized home environments
- Converged and network-wide functions (e.g., AAA servers, policy control, and charging platforms
- Application-level optimization (e.g., CDNs, Cache Servers, Load Balancers, Application Accelerators)
