Article · Bulletin of the National Engineering Academy of the Republic of Kazakhstan · June 30, 2024
Comparison of sdn controllers: performance and functionality evaluation
B. Shyryn, A. Zhumadillayeva, M. Othman, Universiti Putra Malaysia
Abstract
In recent times, there has been a surge in popularity for Software-defined networking (SDN) due to its ability to centralize network management, resulting in greater flexibility and agility. SDN architecture relies heavily on SDN controllers, which play a significant role in controlling and managing the network. However, with a wide range of SDN controllers available on the market, selecting the ideal one can be a daunting task. To assist with this challenge, this article conducts a comparative analysis of several renowned SDN controllers, such as OpenDaylight, Floodlight, Ryu, and ONOS. The assessment is based on two key criteria: performance and functionality. Performance metrics include packet forwarding speed, control plane latency, and memory usage. In contrast, functionality metrics include network virtualization support, security, and scalability. Our evaluation indicates that there is a significant variation in the performance and functionality of the controllers, with some controllers excelling in specific areas compared to others. For example, OpenDaylight had the highest packet forwarding speed, while Ryu exhibited the lowest control plane latency. Concerning functionality, Floodlight presented the most comprehensive security features, whereas ONOS demonstrated the best scalability. Overall, this article presents a thorough evaluation of SDN controllers’ performance and functionality, which can guide network administrators in choosing the most appropriate controller to suit their specific requirements.
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