SDN and SD-WAN Fundamentals: Intro to Software-defined Networking from Pluralsight

This course will teach you the fundamentals of software-defined networking (SDN). You'll learn how SDN works, its components and architecture, the problems that it solves, and the benefits it provides over traditional distributed network deployments.

These days, enterprise networks, and the administrators that manage them, are under enormous pressure to provide reliable, highly scalable network solutions as both organizations and customers require network connectivity for ever-increasing amounts of information. Software-defined networking (SDN) gives network admins new, more efficient ways to configure, manage, secure, and optimize their organization’s network resources.

In this course, SDN and SD-WAN Fundamentals: Intro to Software-defined Networking, you'll learn the basics of how software-defined networking works, its components and architecture, the problems that it solves, and the benefits it provides.

First, you’ll explore the limitations and inefficiencies of traditional distributed network components and their deployments.

Next, you’ll discover the characteristics and components of software-defined networking and discover how it provides extended functionality to network devices.

Finally, you’ll learn how SDN programmability allows administrators to interact with their network devices and network controllers using a variety of application programming interfaces (APIs).

When you’re finished with this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of software-defined networking technology needed to administer and support an SDN solution.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Examining the Limitations of Distributed Network Deployments

Examining the Inefficiencies of Managing Traditional Network Devices

Introducing Software-defined Networks (SDN)

Examining the Benefits of SDN Programmability

Examining Software-defined Data Center (SDDC) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV)

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the limitations and inefficiences of traditional distributed network deployments

Examines the characteristics and components of software-defined networking

Discusses the benefits of SDN programmability

Covers software-defined data center (SDDC) and network function virtualization (NFV)

Provides foundational knowledge of software-defined networking technology

Suitable for beginners and those looking to build a foundation in software-defined networking

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in SDN and SD-WAN Fundamentals: Intro to Software-defined Networking with these activities:

Review Python programming

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Review the basics of Python programming, including data types, control flow, and functions. This will help you understand the code examples and concepts discussed in the SDN course.

Browse courses on Python Programming

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Reread your Python notes or review online resources.
Complete Python coding exercises or practice problems.

Review networking fundamentals

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Review the basic concepts of networking, including network topology, protocols, and devices. This will help you understand the foundational elements of SDN.

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Read through a networking textbook or online resource.
Take practice quizzes or complete review exercises to test your understanding.

Configure SDN Devices

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Develop practical skills in configuring and managing SDN devices, reinforcing your understanding of SDN architecture and functionality.

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Install an SDN controller (e.g., OpenDaylight, Floodlight)
Set up and configure SDN switches (e.g., ONOS, OpenFlow)
Create and modify flow rules to control network traffic

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Explore SDN Use Cases

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Enhance your comprehension of SDN's real-world applications and the problems it solves.

Browse courses on Software-Defined Networking (SDN)

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Access online tutorials on SDN use cases in different industries
Review vendor whitepapers and case studies on SDN deployments

Design an SDN Network

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Apply your knowledge of SDN principles to design and document a network architecture that meets specific requirements, solidifying your understanding of SDN's capabilities and limitations.

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Identify network requirements and constraints
Choose appropriate SDN components and technologies
Create a network diagram and architecture document

Career center

Learners who complete SDN and SD-WAN Fundamentals: Intro to Software-defined Networking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Network Architect

Network Architects design, implement and maintain computer networks. These networks can be used for a variety of purposes, such as connecting computers within a building or connecting different buildings together. Network Architects must have a strong understanding of networking technologies, as well as the ability to work with a variety of software and hardware.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect

Network Administrator

Network Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of computer networks. This includes tasks such as monitoring network performance, troubleshooting problems, and implementing security measures. Network Administrators must have a strong understanding of networking technologies and protocols.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security measures for computer networks. This includes tasks such as configuring firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security devices. Network Security Engineers must have a strong understanding of networking technologies and security principles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Software Developer

Software Developers design, develop, and test software applications. This includes tasks such as writing code, debugging errors, and testing functionality. Software Developers must have a strong understanding of programming languages and software development methodologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems. This includes tasks such as gathering requirements, designing system architectures, and developing test plans. Systems Analysts must have a strong understanding of business processes and information technology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

IT Manager

IT Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of an organization's IT department. This includes tasks such as setting IT budgets, hiring and firing staff, and developing IT policies. IT Managers must have a strong understanding of information technology and business management.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make informed decisions. This includes tasks such as gathering data, cleaning data, and developing data visualizations. Data Analysts must have a strong understanding of data analysis techniques and statistical methods.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators design, implement, and maintain databases. This includes tasks such as creating database schemas, optimizing database performance, and backing up databases. Database Administrators must have a strong understanding of database technologies and data management principles.

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Cloud Architect

Cloud Architects design and implement cloud computing solutions. This includes tasks such as selecting cloud providers, designing cloud architectures, and migrating applications to the cloud. Cloud Architects must have a strong understanding of cloud computing technologies and cloud service models.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect

Security Analyst

Security Analysts analyze and investigate security threats and vulnerabilities. This includes tasks such as monitoring security logs, detecting security breaches, and responding to security incidents. Security Analysts must have a strong understanding of security principles and threat intelligence.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for software and hardware products. This includes tasks such as writing user manuals, technical specifications, and white papers. Technical Writers must have a strong understanding of the products they are documenting and the ability to write clear and concise technical documentation.

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Product Manager

Product Managers plan, develop, and launch new products. This includes tasks such as defining product requirements, conducting market research, and developing marketing campaigns. Product Managers must have a strong understanding of product management principles and the ability to bring new products to market.

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Quality Assurance Engineer

Quality Assurance Engineers test software and hardware products to ensure that they meet quality standards. This includes tasks such as writing test cases, executing tests, and reporting defects. Quality Assurance Engineers must have a strong understanding of software testing principles and methodologies.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. This includes tasks such as gathering requirements, designing process flows, and evaluating solutions. Business Analysts must have a strong understanding of business analysis techniques and methodologies.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of a project. This includes tasks such as setting project goals, developing project plans, and managing project budgets. Project Managers must have a strong understanding of project management principles and methodologies.

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SDN and SD-WAN Fundamentals

Intro to Software-defined Networking

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