AT&T NFV and SDN plans are set to power software-based security systems
AT&T’s network transformation moves using software-defined networking and network functions virtualization is creeping into security applications.
The telecom giant said it has begun to tap its SDN and NFV platforms to power software-based security systems that will allow for more rapid implementation of security features for consumer and enterprise customers. The security layers include a virtualized firewall solution that features intrusion detection, application control, antivirus solutions and Web filtering designed to protect data stored in a cloud environment.
AT&T said the move to virtualized security can benefit customers by supporting dynamic updates in near real time based on need; quicker deployments that can be customized by customers; can be deployed across multiple cloud environments, including pubic, private and hybrid cloud architectures; and support additional security protections that can be customized based on needed security for an application rather than a “generalized perimeter defense.”
AT&T is viewed by many as one of the industry leaders in the rollout of SDN and NFV platforms. The carrier late last year announced plans to control up to 75% of its network by 2020 using software platforms, and has since followed up the announcement with updates on its progress. Those updates include the announced expansion of its SDN-based Network on Demand service and that it had tapped NFV and SDN to bolster its Gigapower broadband service.
RCR Wireless News recently spoke with Andre Fuetsch, SVP of architecture and design at AT&T, as part of the weekly NFV/SDN Reality Check video show, where he provided an update on AT&T’s virtualization progress, including targeted market segments for virtualized platforms, challenges AT&T has seen in its SDN and NFV deployments, and future challenges the telecom operator feels need to be tackled in order for broader virtualization deployments.
Bored? Why not follow me on Twitter
