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Network Virtualization is a technique by which both hardware and software computer network resources and network functionality are combined into a single unit known as a virtual network. In this method, the available resources in a network are coalesced. This is done by breaking up the available bandwidth into channels. Each of these channels, which are independent from the others, can be assigned to a particular server. In Network Virtualization, all subscribers will enjoy shared access to all resources on the network from a single computer. There can be both internal and external virtualization depending on the execution provided by vendors. Different network virtualization solutions are available that can merge multiple physical networks into one virtual network. These solutions can also be used to logically segment a single physical network into multiple logical networks. Diverse partitions can be added in order to enhance the network to satisfy business requirements. Benefits of Network Virtualization Network Virtualization offers a conceptual layer that separates physical network devices from business services delivered over the network. This leads to the creation of a more supple and efficient infrastructure. The main rationale behind network virtualization is bandwidth management. Network managers can use multiple WAN connections, concurrently able to set up bandwidth-hungry applications at affordable costs. In short, increasing the bandwidth and reducing the overall cost are the two key benefits of the system. It helps in managing the bandwidth and optimizes network speed. Virtualization isolates the network impact of multiple applications and minimizes downtime, ensuring that business continuity can be achieved. Applications do not get in the way of each other and automated provisioning reduces configuration errors that tend to be expensive. Other Benefits Besides increasing bandwidth, network virtualization offers a lot of other benefits. This method has been developed for undertaking network management, which is generally a tedious and time-consuming business for a human administrator. With network virtualization, the system performs these functions automatically and hence conceals the true complexity of the network. Network virtualization solutions enable companies to enhance enterprise dexterity, advance network efficiency, lessen capital and operational costs and maintain high levels of security, scalability, manageability and availability. Most of the functions can be centrally managed from a single physical site and this simplifies the tasks. Network virtualization is particularly effective and useful in those networks that frequently experience sudden, large and unpredicted surge in usage. Network virtualization enables flexible and simple management. Virtual networks can be added to the existing infrastructure to meet any increased demand. In a situation where the demand drops, removal of the additional units is a simple task. This results in more flexible management of the system and reduces complexity. Since virtualization reduces the number of physical servers and hence the total cost of ownership, data centers are adopting this method in huge numbers. Lesser number of physical servers also means lesser cooling required and lesser power consumption while at the same time increasing flexibility. Many organizations choose various levels of network virtualization depending upon their requirements. They can be full virtualization, par virtualization or emulation. A more secure network is assured through network virtualization. A greater level of security through optimized transparent access management exclusive of any complex control mechanisms is a major benefit of network virtualization. Talari Networks www.talari.com is pioneering a new class of products to deliver a revolutionary approach to building enterprise WANs with its innovative Adaptive Private Networking (APN) technology for WAN Virtualization. Paul Limbrey is the author of this article about network virtualization and how it can help increase bandwidth.
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