Fundamentals of Software-Defined Networking: Towards Intelligent and Flexible Networks

by Ali Sadiqui, Moulay Rachid Filali

Overview

The Fundamentals of Software-Defined Networking: Towards Intelligent and Flexible Networks is a comprehensive, beginner-friendly guide to Software-Defined Networking (SDN), designed specifically for educators, trainers, and professionals transitioning into modern networking. It offers a structured, standards-based approach that starts with fundamental networking concepts and builds up to advanced SDN architectures. Focusing on accessibility and practical application, it emphasizes open-source tools and real-world labs that can be implemented in low-resource environments. It covers key SDN technologies, including OpenFlow, SD-WAN, SD-LAN, NFV, LISP, and orchestration with Ansible, while integrating Python-based automation and RESTful APIs.

Key Features

• Progressive, beginner-friendly structure ideal for academic and training settings.
• Hands-on labs using open-source tools such as ONOS, Ryu, Open vSwitch, and Python, plus real-world case studies and projects.
• Vendor-neutral content with no reliance on proprietary technologies.
• Supplementary materials, including scripts and emulator images are available online: www.github.com/sadiqui-ali/SDN_resources

This book is beneficial for instructors, students, and IT professionals seeking a practical and comprehensive introduction to SDN. Moreover, it is particularly suited for training environments where cost-effective, standards-based learning is essential.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781041154297
Publisher:	CRC Press
Publication date:	01/22/2026
Pages:	280
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Ali Sadiqui is an accomplished instructor and researcher, holding a Ph.D. in Computer Science and currently teaching at the Specialized Institute of Applied Technologies in Meknes. Specializing in computer networks, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, he is the author of several internationally recognized books and scientific publications.
With a career at OFPPT, Dr. Sadiqui has extensive experience in higher education. He teaches courses on computer architecture, preparation for Cisco certifications, database management, and programming in various languages such as Python, Java, and C. Before his academic career, he worked as an IT Service Manager.
Dr. Sadiqui is a prolific innovator. His doctoral dissertation introduced a pioneering system for automatic Arabic speech recognition. He is also the inventor of a patented multilayer internet filtering system, which combines a secure cloud architecture with a simplified interface.
/Beyond teaching, he actively contributes to the OFPPT ecosystem as a member of committees for pedagogical validation, digitalization, and the design of final examinations. His commitment to supervising student projects has enabled many of his students to receive awards in national competitions. Engaged in the community, he has also promoted scientific research within several associations to introduce children to programming and robotics.

Moulay Rachid Filali is the Certification Manager at the Specialized Institute of Applied Technologies (ISTA) in Meknes, part of the OFPPT network. In this role, he oversees a strategic portfolio of professional certifications in the field of information technology. His mission is to equip future professionals with robust technical skills aligned with international standards.
/A recognized expert in network and systems environments, Mr. Filali leads the training and preparation of students for several major industry certifications. He provides comprehensive support for Cisco certification tracks, including both CCNA and CCNP, focusing on advanced skills in network installation, configuration, and administration. He also oversees the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certification, ensuring trainees master Microsoft technologies and their operational ecosystems. In the field of cybersecurity, he prepares candidates for the Fortinet – FortiGate certification, which emphasizes the management of next-generation firewalls. Additionally, he ensures thorough preparation for Linux certification, essential for careers in system administration, cloud computing, and DevOps.
Thanks to his expertise and rigorous teaching approach, Mr. Filali plays a key role in developing learners’ competencies, contributing significantly to their successful integration into the fast-evolving technology sector.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Network fundamentals and technological developments. 1.1 Introduction. 1.2 Traditional network architectures. 1.3 Limits of traditional network architectures. 1.4 SDN network overview. 1.5 Advantages of an SDN network. 1.6 Main SDN components. 1.7 API North and South: The Pillars of SDN Orchestration. 1.8 SDN network models. 1.9 An example of SDN architecture in action. 1.10 Main SDN controllers: An overview. 1.11 SDN Multi-Controller Network. 1.12 Chapter conclusion. Chapter 2: Network programming and automation. 2.1 Introduction. 2.2 Network programming and SDN networks. 2.3 Different Network Programmability Models. 2.4 Imperative and declarative programming models. 2.5 Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). 2.6 Network automation via RESTful API. 2.7 Using Python in Network Programming and SDN Architectures. 2.8 Chapter conclusion. Chapter 3: The OpenFlow protocol. 3.1 Introduction. 3.2 Benefits of OpenFlow protocol. 3.3 OpenFlow Protocol versions. 3.4 Components of an OpenFlow architecture. 3.5 Management and role of tables in OpenFlow switching. 3.6 Flow table and flow entries. 3.7 OpenFlow messages. 3.8 How OpenFlow works. 3.9 OpenFlow ecosystem and switch management. 3.10 Other SDN protocols. 3.11 Conclusion. Chapter 4: SD-WAN technology. 4.1 Introduction. 4.2 Introducing SD-WAN. 4.3 Key SD-WAN features. 4.4 SD-WAN architecture. 4.5 Issues and challenges of SD-WAN technology. 4.6 Conclusion. Chapter 5: SDN technology applied to campus networks: SD-LAN and Group-Based Policy Management. 5.1 Introducing Campus Networks. 5.2 Key Requirements for Campus Network Optimization. 5.3 SD-LAN Technology. 5.4 Group-based policy management. 5.5 Automated Campus Network Solutions. 5.6 Conclusion. Chapter 6: The convergence of NFV and SDN for a modern network infrastructure. 6.1 Introduction to NFV. 6.2 Network Virtualization Standards. 6.3 Data center optimization through NFV. 6.4 Interaction between NFV and SDN. 6.5 When should NFV and SDN be combined? 6.6 Conclusion. Chapter 7: Understanding and deploying SDN overlay networks. 7.1 Introduction. 7.2 Diversified Applications of Overlay Networks. 7.3 Overlay Network Technologies and Methods. 7.4 VXLAN network overlay. 7.5 VXLAN and SDN: Technical complementarity. 7.6 VXLAN Management Methods: Static versus Dynamic. 7.7 Technical challenges of VXLAN networks. 7.8 Conclusion. Chapter 8: Orchestration in an SDN environment with Ansible. 8.1 Introduction. 8.2 Definition and role of SDN Orchestrators. 8.3 Advantages of SDN Orchestrators. 8.4 General architecture of an SDN Orchestrator. 8.5 Leading SDN Orchestrators. 8.6 Orchestrating a network with Ansible. 8.7 Synergy between Ansible and SDN networks. 8.8 Conclusion. Chapter 9: Reinventing Enterprise Networks with Cisco SD-ACCESS. 9.1 Introducing the SD-Access solution. 9.2 Cisco SD-ACCESS architecture. 9.3 Platforms and management tools integrated into Cisco SD-Access. 9.4 Cisco SD-Access integration in external networks. 9.5 Comparative analysis: Cisco ACI vs. Cisco SD-Access. 9.6 Conclusion.