Software Defined Networking (SDN) is reshaping how networks are designed, managed,
and scaled. By separating the control and data planes, SDN introduces flexibility,
programmability, and automation - key drivers for modern network evolution.

In this course, you’ll begin with the foundations of SDN, exploring its origins, goals, and how
it differs from traditional networking. You’ll learn why SDN emerged, the role of virtualisation
and cloud computing, and how concepts like X-as-a-Service and network abstractions
influence its design. The course explains SDN’s split architecture, hierarchical interfaces,
and control plane abstractions, giving you a clear understanding of how SDN enables agile,
software-driven networks.

Next, you’ll dive into SDN architecture and standards, covering evolving switch designs,
controller interactions, flow tables, and deployment techniques such as hybrid, edge, and
panopticon models. You’ll also explore open-source platforms like OpenDaylight and
ONOS, and see how SDN integrates with NFV for end-to-end service orchestration.

Designed for professionals in telecoms, IT, and networking, this course provides a practical,
jargon-free introduction to SDN - ideal for anyone looking to understand the principles,
architecture, and real-world applications of software-defined networking.

Course Contents

Introduction to SDN

• Evolution to SDN
  
• Abstracted View of Networks
  
• SDN Control
  
• Example SDN Application
  
• SDN and NFV

SDN Architecture and Standards

• Network and SDN Architecture
  
• SDN Architecture
  
• Switch Deployment
  
• SDN Open-Source Components