How Can Network Orchestration Transform Your Business Operations?

In today’s tech-savvy world, networks are more complex than ever. Imagine a bustling orchestra where every musician plays a crucial role in creating harmonious music. Similarly, network orchestration ensures that countless computing nodes work together seamlessly, supporting everything from end users to the latest Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Understanding Network Orchestration

Network orchestration is all about managing and coordinating network devices and services from a centralized controller, often hosted in the cloud. This process allows for quick and secure setup of applications and devices across an entire network. Here’s how it works:

• Centralized Control: A network controller oversees the entire network, including configurations, infrastructure, and user traffic.
• Task Management: Tasks are executed in a specific order with checks to ensure each step is completed correctly before moving on.

How Does Network Orchestration Work?

Network orchestration relies on a combination of controllers and programmable devices. Here’s a closer look at its functionality:

• Real-Time Adjustments: When business needs change, the network controller can rapidly deploy necessary modifications.
• User Setup: For instance, when adding a new user, the orchestration platform ensures that all settings—like authentication and access levels—are configured accurately across routers, switches, firewalls, and servers.
• Security Compliance: It also guarantees that security protocols are followed for each device within the network.

Network Orchestration vs. Automation vs. Management

Understanding the differences between these terms can be tricky:

Aspect	Network Orchestration	Network Automation	Network Management
Focus	Coordinated task execution	Individual task automation	Overall network administration
Purpose	Purposeful automation with verification	Automatic execution without manual input	Broad management functions
Scope	Subset of network management	Specific tasks	Comprehensive oversight of networks

Orchestration simplifies resource management, potentially reducing costs while enhancing service speed and security.

Applications of Network Orchestration

Consider all the devices accessing your network—each requires unique configurations and security measures. As businesses adopt new applications or expand their networks, orchestration can standardize processes across multiple sites. It addresses challenges such as:

• Legacy infrastructure issues
• Virtualization complexities
• Diverse cloud partnerships
• Increasing user demands for fast access

Benefits of Network Orchestration

Implementing an orchestration system can lead to significant advantages:

• Efficiency: Automating tasks streamlines operations.
• Error Reduction: Fewer manual processes mean fewer mistakes, speeding up delivery and improving customer experiences.
• Self-Service Tools: These tools empower users to access applications as needed without delays.
• Enhanced Security: Automatic updates to security policies help maintain robust protection across the network.

Who Needs Network Orchestration?

Organizations that stand to gain the most from network orchestration typically include:

• Large enterprises with 250+ employees
• Companies managing over 20 different network devices
• Businesses deploying numerous IoT devices
• Organizations with frequent changes in their network setup

Popular Network Orchestration Tools

Network orchestration tools are essential for automating and streamlining network management tasks. They help in efficiently provisioning, configuring, and monitoring network devices and services. Here’s a breakdown of the top ten tools that can enhance your network management experience.

Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO)

Cisco NSO excels in automating multi-vendor network environments. It allows users to define and deploy network services across various devices using a model-driven approach.

Key Features:

• Supports service orchestration and configuration management.
• Facilitates automation in diverse network setups.

Ansible

Ansible is a powerful open-source automation platform that simplifies network automation tasks using YAML-based playbooks.

Key Features:

• Agentless operation, easing deployment and management.
• Treats infrastructure as code, enabling version control.

Juniper Contrail

Juniper Contrail is a robust SDN platform that streamlines the management of network services in virtualized environments.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive SDN solution for agile network infrastructure.
• Simplifies orchestration and scaling of virtual services.

VMware NSX

VMware NSX provides a versatile platform for network virtualization and security, automating the provisioning of network services.

Key Features:

• Enables creation of virtual networks independent of physical infrastructure.
• Offers microsegmentation for enhanced security.

OpenStack

OpenStack is an open-source cloud computing platform that includes capabilities for managing network resources effectively.

Key Features:

• Modular architecture allows customization based on needs.
• Designed for scalability and high availability.

Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform

This comprehensive automation platform centralizes control over network workflows, enhancing efficiency in task execution.

Key Features:

• Unified solution for IT task automation.
• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) for secure collaboration.

Puppet

Puppet is an infrastructure automation tool that supports configuration management across diverse environments.

Key Features:

• Uses declarative language for easy configuration management.
• Facilitates version control through Infrastructure as Code principles.

SaltStack

SaltStack focuses on event-driven automation and orchestration, making it suitable for real-time infrastructure management.

Key Features:

• Remote execution capabilities across numerous systems.
• Robust configuration management features.

VMware vRealize Automation

This cloud management platform automates the provisioning of network services in hybrid environments.

Key Features:

• Self-service provisioning empowers users while maintaining governance.
• Policy-based automation ensures compliance and security.

HPE Intelligent Management Center (IMC)

HPE IMC offers comprehensive network management features, including monitoring and automation capabilities.

Key Features:

• Provides end-to-end visibility into the network infrastructure.
• Includes security management features to enhance overall security posture.

These tools collectively enhance operational efficiency, reduce manual effort, and improve overall network performance. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and existing infrastructure.

By embracing network orchestration, organizations can navigate the complexities of modern networks with ease, ensuring that every component works together harmoniously for optimal performance.