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Software-Defined Networking

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May 1, 2024 Updated May 11, 2025 22 minute read
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Software-Defined Networking (SDN) represents a paradigm shift in how networks are built and managed. At its core, SDN decouples the network's control plane (which decides where traffic goes) from the data plane (which forwards the traffic). This separation allows network administrators to manage network services through software, abstracting them from the underlying physical hardware. Imagine being able to program your entire network from a central point, much like you would program a computer, rather than configuring individual hardware devices. This centralized control and programmability are hallmarks of SDN, offering unprecedented agility and efficiency in network operations.

Path to Software-Defined Networking

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We've curated seven courses to help you on your path to Software-Defined Networking. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
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Reading list

We've selected five 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.
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Software Defined Networks
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Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of Software Defined Networking (SDN), covering the underlying network, architecture, and protocols. Suitable for beginners and experienced network engineers alike.
Software Defined Networks: A Comprehensive Approach
Paperback
$$$
Software Defined Networks: A Comprehensive Approach
Kindle Edition
$$
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UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook
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Covers the programmability aspects of SDN, with a focus on the OpenFlow protocol. Suitable for network engineers and programmers who want to learn how to program SDN networks.
UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook
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UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook
Kindle Edition
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SDN - Software Defined Networks
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Covers the fundamentals of SDN, including the architecture, protocols, and use cases. Suitable for network engineers and IT professionals who want to understand the basics of SDN.
SDN - Software Defined Networks
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SDN - Software Defined Networks
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HotSDN'12
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Covers the OpenFlow protocol, which key component of SDN. Suitable for network engineers and programmers who want to implement and manage SDN networks.
HotSDN'12
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HotSDN'12
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SDN: Software Defined Networks
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Provides a comprehensive overview of SDN, with a focus on the OpenFlow protocol. Suitable for network engineers and researchers who want to understand the technical details of SDN.
SDN: Software Defined Networks
Paperback
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SDN: Software Defined Networks
Kindle Edition
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Relevant careers
SDN Architect
Cloud Engineer
Network Engineer
Data Center Engineer
Software Engineer
Network Administrator
Security Engineer
Related topics
Cloud Networking
Network Engineering
Network Automation
Virtual Networking
Network Security
Network Function Virtualization (NFV)
Cloud Computing
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