Software defined virtual wireless network: framework and challenges

Due to inflexibility, design and control of existing networks are very complex. Therefore, SDN aims to separate control and data planes clearly, which is an innovative and effective approach to this problem. With SDN, a service provider can adjust the settings of a network according to various requirements dynamically and in a timely fashion. This feature is especially suitable for a wireless scenario with dynamic and unstable changing situations. Meanwhile, because various algorithms, such as traffic forwarding and quality of service, can be operated by a central controller, SDN is a natural optional technique for WNV. In this article, we illustrate the framework for combining SDN and WNV, review state-of-the-art related work, and discuss the challenges for future study.