What is Network Function Virtualization (NFV)?

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) is the technology of running network functions, traditionally operated on dedicated hardware, on software-based virtual machines.

In traditional network infrastructure, separate physical hardware is required for each function such as firewalls, load balancers, and routers. This leads to high costs, complex management, and limited flexibility.

With NFV, these hardware-based network components are transformed into software applications running on standard servers.

Fundamental components of NFV: Virtual Network Functions (VNF), NFV Infrastructure (NFVI), and NFV Management and Orchestration (MANO) system.

Advantages of NFV: Reduced hardware costs, rapid service deployment, flexibility and scalability, energy savings, and simplified network management.

NFV is recognized as an important component of digital transformation in many sectors, particularly among telecom operators. Its importance increases with the development of 5G infrastructure.

When used together with SDN (Software-Defined Networking), NFV transforms network management into a completely software-based structure, providing maximum flexibility and efficiency.