Network Functions Virtualisation ― Toward a Robust and Elastic Network ―

The virtualization of network functions by NFV was introduced into the NTT DOCOMO network in March 2016. Since NFV eliminates the binding of communications software to hardware, a method is needed that can dynamically and flexibly change the configuration of the physical network composed of routers and switches. NTT DOCOMO has adopted SDN technology for this purpose. This article describes SDN technology for achieving NFV. Core Network Development Department Yusuke Okazaki Takuya Kitade Taisuke Yoshida