VNF (virtualized network function) vs NFC (network functions virtualization)
NFV and VNF are closely related but distinct concepts within modern network architecture. NFV provides the framework and infrastructure for virtualizing network functions, while VNFs are the virtualized implementations of these functions. Together, they represent a significant shift towards more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective network operations, particularly important in the era of 5G and beyond[1][2][4].
What is NFV?
Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) is an architectural framework that enables the virtualization of network services traditionally run on proprietary, dedicated hardware. NFV aims to decouple network functions from the hardware they run on, allowing these functions to operate on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) servers. This approach not only reduces the dependency on specialized hardware but also offers enhanced flexibility and scalability by allowing network services to be deployed and managed as software applications[1][2][4].
NFV encompasses the entire infrastructure required to support the deployment, operation, and management of virtualized network functions. This includes the hardware resources, virtualization layer, and the management and orchestration (MANO) systems that handle the lifecycle of virtual network functions[2][5].
What is VNF?
Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) are the software implementations of network functions that can be deployed on NFV infrastructure. Examples of VNFs include virtual routers, firewalls, and load balancers. VNFs are designed to run inside virtual machines (VMs) or containers on top of the NFV infrastructure, leveraging the flexibility and scalability provided by virtualization technologies[1][3][6].
VNFs represent the actual network services that benefit from the NFV architecture, allowing network operators to quickly deploy new services, scale them as demand changes, and reduce both capital and operational expenditures by utilizing standard IT hardware and virtualization technologies[1][3].
Key Differences and Relationship
- Conceptual Framework vs. Implementation: NFV is the overarching architectural framework that outlines how network functions can be virtualized, managed, and orchestrated. VNFs, on the other hand, are the specific implementations of network functions as software applications that run on the NFV infrastructure[2].
- Infrastructure vs. Function: NFV provides the infrastructure and the environment necessary for virtualizing network functions, including the hardware, virtualization layer, and management systems. VNFs are the network functions themselves, now implemented as software that can run on this virtualized infrastructure[1][2].
- Objective: The primary objective of NFV is to transform the way network services are deployed, making the network more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective. VNFs aim to leverage this transformation, providing the actual network services in a more agile and efficient manner[2][4].
Citations:
[2] https://www.calsoftinc.com/blogs/industry_insights/nfv-vs-vnf-whats-difference
[4] https://www.comptia.org/blog/sdn-sd-wan-nfv-vnf
[5] https://cloudify.co/blog/mobile-world-congress-nfv-sdn-network-orchestration-automation/
[6] https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/cloud-native-apps/vnf-and-cnf-whats-the-difference
[7] https://www.networkworld.com/article/963913/what-s-the-difference-between-sdn-and-nfv.html