Ten important components of SDN controller

SDN controller features include modularity, API, clustering, and GUI. Without an SDN controller, the concept of software-defined networking falls apart. SDN relies on controllers to enable management, configuration, and programmability of a centralized platform.

A significant advantage of SDN controllers is automation. Instead of manually configuring individual devices, network engineers can configure and distribute policies through SDN controllers. The controller also supports flexible path routing, reliability, and visibility.

Common SDN controllers include Floodlight, Nox, OpenDaylight, Open

Network Operating System, Pox, Ryu and Trema. So, how do you choose from the various options? You can choose an SDN controller based on performance factors such as throughput, latency and CPU utilization.

Here are 10 common features of SDN controllers:

• OpenFlow – A southbound API that directs flow requests forwarded by switches to controllers and vice versa.
• GUI – Receives and displays data about forwarding devices, configurations, and application deployments.
• Northbound REST API - enables communication between applications and controllers.
• Clustering - Improves scalability and controller performance.
• Quantum API - calls from the controller to the cloud service.
• Synchronization - responsible for how the controller stores and responds to network data.
• Productivity – affects how easy it is for developers to create applications and use the controller programming language.
• Partnership Support – The level of third-party support.
• Platform support – compatibility of the SDN controller with various operating systems.
• Modularity - the ability to create instructions and subroutines.

But the selection process may not be as clear-cut as comparing performance versus features. A hybrid approach may be necessary, considering controller criteria, alternatives, and priorities.