VirtPhy: A fully programmable infrastructure for efficient NFV in small data centers

Abstract

This paper proposes, implements, and evaluates VirtPhy, a novel approach to build small-scale data centers network infrastructure for network functions virtualisation (NFV). VirtPhy is fully programmable to respond to NFV stringent demands related to throughput, latency, cost, rapid innovation, and efficient orchestration. An 8-node testbed demonstrates its key enabling mechanisms, which are programmed to jointly make the most of the available physical infrastructure.