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Software Defined Networking (SDN) Deployment

Iain Murray AM, Himanshu Agrawal, and Nazanin Mohammadi

The aim of this course is to equip learners with advanced skills in network automation and make them industry ready.

In this course, you will learn about SDN Deployment. The course has been designed with a practical, hands-on approach to help you obtain a better understanding of how to deploy virtual network functions and services on a testbed platform.

We will explore the deployment of network services under mobility using a testbed platform supported by Cisco, integrating SDN/NFV and MEC technologies.

Read more

The aim of this course is to equip learners with advanced skills in network automation and make them industry ready.

In this course, you will learn about SDN Deployment. The course has been designed with a practical, hands-on approach to help you obtain a better understanding of how to deploy virtual network functions and services on a testbed platform.

We will explore the deployment of network services under mobility using a testbed platform supported by Cisco, integrating SDN/NFV and MEC technologies.

The course has been designed by an academic team with extensive teaching experience and a successful track record of delivering high quality MOOC courses, including the MicroMasters in The Internet of Things, in which over a quarter of a million edX learners have enrolled.

Verified learners will be provided with additional, free access to Cisco Networking Academy courses.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Gain an understanding of osm mano and multi-access edge computing
  • Explore the deployment of virtual network function (vnf) on a practical testbed on sdn/nfv
  • Apply sdn/nfv knowledge for local and global orchestration
  • Test and apply programming skills on the cisco dna platform
  • Test and implement network slicing on the testbed platform

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches SDN Deployment and MEF, which are core skills for network engineers
Strong fit for IT professionals looking to advance their skillset in network automation
Provides practical, hands-on labs and interactive materials to enhance understanding
Designed by an academic team with a successful track record in delivering high-quality MOOCs
Taught by experienced instructors Iain Murray AM, Nazanin Mohammadi, and Himanshu Agrawal
Offers verified learners additional, free access to Cisco Networking Academy courses

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Practical sdn deployment with hands-on labs

According to learners, this course offers a highly practical and hands-on approach to Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) deployment. Many students praise the invaluable experience gained from the testbed platform and the integration of industry-relevant tools like Cisco DNA. While the course is broadly seen as excellent for career advancement and features knowledgeable instructors, prospective students should be aware that a strong existing networking foundation is essential. A recurring theme in some feedback points to occasional technical challenges with the lab environments, which some found frustrating.
Instructors are highly knowledgeable and effective in their teaching.
"The instructors did a fantastic job explaining complex topics like OSM Mano and network slicing clearly."
"The instructors are experts, and the content is up-to-date and highly relevant to today's networking challenges."
"The instructors are top-notch, and the course material is clearly designed to make you industry-ready."
Covers essential, up-to-date technologies for networking professionals.
"This course is highly relevant for anyone looking to advance in network automation and SDN."
"Learning about Cisco DNA and OSM Mano made this very applicable to my job."
"The content is up-to-date and highly relevant to today's networking challenges. A brilliant course for career advancement."
Provides crucial practical experience with real-world network deployment.
"The hands-on labs are exceptional, really helping to bridge the gap between theory and practical deployment. I gained so much practical insight into deploying VNFs."
"The practical, hands-on approach to deploying virtual network functions on a testbed is exactly what I needed."
"It's so rare to find a course that offers such a practical, hands-on approach to SDN deployment. The learning objectives were met perfectly."
Some learners encountered frustrating technical problems with the lab setup.
"I struggled with some of the lab setups, encountering frequent connectivity issues that took significant time away from learning."
"Disappointed with the lab experience. The frequent problems with the testbed environment made it difficult to follow along."
"The practical side was hit or miss. The testbed environment had issues, and sometimes I felt lost without more detailed troubleshooting guides."
A solid networking background is highly recommended for optimal learning.
"I already had some networking background, which I found quite helpful as the pace is quite brisk."
"A more detailed prerequisite section would be helpful – I struggled a bit with the initial concepts as a relative newcomer."
"I think for beginners, it might be a bit overwhelming, as it dives deep quite quickly. Some clearer foundational material or recommended pre-reading would be beneficial."

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 Software Defined Networking (SDN) Deployment with these activities:
Review Network Management Concepts
Revisit foundational concepts in network management, including network monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance optimization, to strengthen your understanding of the context for network automation.
Browse courses on Network Management
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or online resources on network management fundamentals.
  • Complete practice exercises or simulations related to network troubleshooting and monitoring.
  • Discuss network management concepts with peers or experts in the field.
Course Materials Compilation
Review and organize course materials regularly to enhance your understanding and retention.
Show steps
  • Gather and organize lecture notes, readings, assignments, and quizzes.
  • Summarize key concepts and highlight important sections.
  • Review the compiled materials periodically.
Review SDN Concepts
Review the fundamentals of SDN, including its architecture, protocols, and benefits, to strengthen your understanding of network automation concepts.
Browse courses on Software Defined Networking
Show steps
  • Read online articles or watch videos on SDN basics.
  • Complete online tutorials or interactive simulations on SDN concepts.
  • Join discussion forums or online communities related to SDN.
11 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 14 activities
Virtual Networking Meetups
Engage in discussions, ask questions, and learn from industry professionals and peers.
Show steps
  • Attend virtual meetups and conferences related to network automation and SDN/NFV.
  • Introduce yourself and share your interests.
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Gather Industry Resources on Network Automation
Compile a collection of relevant articles, whitepapers, and online resources that provide valuable insights into network automation trends and best practices.
Show steps
  • Search for reputable sources on network automation, such as industry blogs, research papers, and vendor websites.
  • Create a digital or physical repository to organize your gathered resources.
  • Review and summarize the key findings from the collected materials.
Attend Virtual or In-Person Meetups
Connect with professionals in the field of network automation by attending local or virtual meetups, conferences, or industry events.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant meetups or conferences in your area or online.
  • Register and attend the event.
  • Introduce yourself to other attendees and engage in discussions about network automation.
Cisco DNA Platform Tutorial
Enhance your skills in programming and applying SDN/NFV principles on the Cisco DNA platform.
Show steps
  • Access the Cisco DNA Center platform.
  • Review the tutorials and documentation.
  • Follow the step-by-step instructions to configure and manage network devices.
Testbed Deployment and Orchestration Practical
Practice deploying network services and applying SDN/NFV knowledge for local and global orchestration.
Show steps
  • Set up the testbed environment on Cisco Networking Academy.
  • Deploy virtual network functions (VNFs).
  • Apply SDN/NFV principles for local and global orchestration.
  • Test and troubleshoot the deployment.
Explore Cisco Networking Academy Courses
Access free Cisco Networking Academy courses to enhance your knowledge of network automation and gain practical skills.
Show steps
  • Create an account on the Cisco Networking Academy website.
  • Browse the available courses related to network automation.
  • Select a course and follow the guided tutorials.
  • Complete assignments and quizzes to test your understanding.
Configure and Test SDN Controllers
Gain practical experience by configuring and testing SDN controllers, such as OpenDaylight or ONOS, to reinforce your understanding of network automation principles.
Show steps
  • Install an SDN controller on a virtual or physical machine.
  • Configure the controller according to vendor documentation.
  • Create and modify network flows using the controller's GUI or API.
  • Test the functionality of the controller by simulating network traffic and monitoring its behavior.
Network Slicing Implementation Project
Apply your knowledge in network slicing by implementing and testing it on the provided testbed platform.
Browse courses on Network Slicing
Show steps
  • Design and plan the network slice.
  • Configure and implement the network slice on the testbed.
  • Test and evaluate the performance of the network slice.
  • Document and present your findings.
Community Network Support
Apply your skills in a practical setting by volunteering to support community network initiatives.
Show steps
  • Identify local organizations or community groups that provide network support.
  • Offer your assistance and skills.
  • Help with network configuration, maintenance, or troubleshooting.
Develop a Network Automation Plan
Create a comprehensive plan outlining your approach to network automation, including tools, strategies, and implementation steps.
Show steps
  • Research industry best practices for network automation.
  • Identify specific areas of your network that can benefit from automation.
  • Choose suitable automation tools and technologies.
  • Outline your implementation strategy, including timelines and resource allocation.
  • Develop a monitoring and evaluation plan to track the success of your automation efforts.
Participate in Network Automation Challenges
Put your skills to the test and compete in online or offline challenges related to network automation, such as hackathons or coding competitions.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for relevant challenges or competitions.
  • Study and prepare for the challenge by practicing and refining your skills.
  • Collaborate with others or work independently to solve the challenge.
  • Submit your solution and receive feedback from experts.

Career center

Learners who complete Software Defined Networking (SDN) Deployment will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Network Architect
Network Architects design, implement, and maintain computer networks. They ensure that networks meet the needs of the organization, taking into account factors such as security, performance, and cost. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Network Architect, such as network design, network management, and network security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Architect
Network Engineer
Network Engineers install, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks. They work with a variety of network devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Network Engineer, such as network troubleshooting, network security, and network management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer
Network Administrator
Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. They ensure that networks are running smoothly and that users have access to the resources they need. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Network Administrator, such as network monitoring, network troubleshooting, and network security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Cloud Architect
Cloud Architects design and implement cloud computing solutions. They work with a variety of cloud computing technologies, including virtualization, storage, and networking. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Cloud Architect, such as cloud computing design, cloud computing management, and cloud computing security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Architect
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineers install, maintain, and troubleshoot cloud computing solutions. They work with a variety of cloud computing technologies, including virtualization, storage, and networking. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Cloud Engineer, such as cloud computing troubleshooting, cloud computing security, and cloud computing management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Software Engineer, such as software design, software development, and software testing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer systems. They work with a variety of computer hardware and software technologies. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Systems Engineer, such as systems design, systems management, and systems security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
IT Consultant
IT Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on how to use information technology to meet their business needs. This course can help you develop the skills you need as an IT Consultant, such as IT strategy, IT management, and IT security.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Consultant
Security Analyst
Security Analysts identify, assess, and mitigate security risks to organizations. They work with a variety of security technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software. This course can help you develop the skills you need as a Security Analyst, such as security risk assessment, security incident response, and security forensics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make better decisions. They work with a variety of data analysis tools and techniques. This course may help you develop some of the skills you need as a Data Analyst, such as data collection, data analysis, and data visualization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Database Administrator
Database Administrators design, implement, and maintain databases. They work with a variety of database technologies, including SQL, NoSQL, and cloud databases. This course may help you develop some of the skills you need as a Database Administrator, such as database design, database management, and database security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Web Developer
Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites. They work with a variety of web development technologies, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This course may help you develop some of the skills you need as a Web Developer, such as web design, web development, and web security.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
IT Project Manager
IT Project Managers plan, execute, and close IT projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including project sponsors, project team members, and customers. This course may help you develop some of the skills you need as an IT Project Manager, such as project planning, project management, and project risk management.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Project Manager
IT Salesperson
IT Salespeople sell IT products and services to businesses and organizations. They work with a variety of sales techniques, including cold calling, relationship selling, and social selling. This course may help you develop some of the skills you need as an IT Salesperson, such as sales techniques, sales presentations, and customer relationship management.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Salesperson
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They work with a variety of technical topics, including software, hardware, and engineering. This course may help you develop some of the skills you need as a Technical Writer, such as technical writing, technical editing, and documentation management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Software Defined Networking (SDN) Deployment.
Cover image
SDN: Software Defined Networks
Save
Intended as a comprehensive guide to SDN, this book can either replace or supplement this course depending on your learning needs.
SDN: Software Defined Networks
Paperback
Check
SDN: Software Defined Networks
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Network Function Virtualization
Save
This is another book aimed at those new to SDN, but it is still a solid resource for those more experienced.
Network Function Virtualization
Paperback
$$
Network Function Virtualization
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Network Management
Save
Offers a broad overview of network management, which will help students understand the context in which SDN and NFV operate within.
Network Management
Paperback
Check
Network Management
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Cloud Computing: A Practical Approach
Save
Has a greater focus on cloud computing than this course does, but it remains a valuable reference for understanding the relationship between the cloud and SDN.
Cloud Computing, A Practical Approach
Paperback
$$
Cloud Computing: A Practical Approach
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Internet of Things
Save
Will help students understand the broader context of IoT, in which SDN and NFV play an important role.
The Internet of Things: Key Applications and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Software Defined Networks
Save
Provides a concise overview of SDN, covering the fundamental concepts and architectures.
Software Defined Networks
Paperback
Check
Software Defined Networks
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Computer Networking Problems and Solutions
Save
Provides a gentle introduction to cloud networking, covering the fundamental concepts and technologies.
Computer Networking Problems and Solutions: An...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Cloud Computing For Dummies
Save
Provides a very basic overview of cloud computing, including SDN and NFV.
Cloud Computing For Dummies
Paperback
Check
Cloud Computing For Dummies
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
4 to 6 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
Curtin University
Instructors
Iain Murray AM
Himanshu Agrawal
Nazanin Mohammadi
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a collection called Software Defined Networking (SDN). It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Software Defined Networking (SDN) Deployment (viewing)
  2. Software Defined Networking (SDN) Access Security
  3. Introduction to Software Defined Networking
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches SDN Deployment and MEF, which are core skills for network engineers
Strong fit for IT professionals looking to advance their skillset in network automation
Provides practical, hands-on labs and interactive materials to enhance understanding
Designed by an academic team with a successful track record in delivering high-quality MOOCs
Taught by experienced instructors Iain Murray AM, Nazanin Mohammadi, and Himanshu Agrawal
Offers verified learners additional, free access to Cisco Networking Academy courses
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