Virtual network resources management: a divide-and-conquer approach for the control of future networks

We discuss the virtual network concepts and introduce a management architecture for the control of virtual networks. The management architecture is intended to provide a programmable networking environment, where multiple virtual networks can be generated out of a single physical network for various management purposes. We first define a virtual network and related concepts in a generic manner; discuss how physical network resources can be allocated to virtual networks; and present how a hierarchy of virtual networks can be created. We then introduce the virtual network resources management architecture. The architecture allows customization of network control and management functions to corporate customers through dynamic binding techniques.