LENV: A new light-weighted edge network virtualization framework in software-defined wireless networks

With the proliferation of mobility demands and network services, network operators in enterprise Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) must implement a flexible and centralized network management to keep pace with this trend. Unfortunately, due to the inflexible network architecture and closed network equipments, the traditional network faces a series of challenges, like network expansibility and mobility issues. In this paper, we propose a new architecture named Light-weighted Edge Network Virtualization (LENV), which achieves edge network functions virtualization by leveraging the Software Defined Networking (SDN) approach in enterprise WLAN. LENV virtualizes edge network functions towards a centralized logical module which hosts in the wireless access point (AP) for each client under the controller's strategies. Therefore, network functions can be deployed more flexibly based on client's requirements and network status. In addition, combined management schemes consisting of association control, access control and mobility management have been considered and studied in LENV, which ensure enterprise WLAN extensible and stable. In the end, our further simulation shows that LENV can significantly benefit mobility and security in enterprise WLAN.