Wireless and Satellite Communications

Software-Defined Networking and Network Virtualization

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and network virtualization have fundamentally transformed how communication networks are designed, managed, and operated. This track explores the principles of decoupling the control plane from the data plane, enabling centralized and programmable network control. Participants will examine SDN architectures, controllers, and southbound and northbound interfaces that facilitate dynamic configuration and real-time network optimization. Network virtualization concepts such as virtual network functions (VNFs) and resource abstraction are discussed to illustrate how physical infrastructure can support multiple logical networks.

The track also highlights the application of SDN and virtualization in wireless and satellite networks, where flexibility and scalability are critical. Topics include virtualized radio access networks, satellite network slicing, and orchestration frameworks. Challenges related to latency, reliability, and security are addressed alongside emerging solutions. By enabling automation, rapid service deployment, and efficient resource utilization, SDN and network virtualization play a key role in supporting next-generation communication systems and converged network architectures.