Experiment with VNFs over Docker Containers

In Chapter 4 , we discussed the importance of virtualization of network functions, NFV architecture, and its role in present and future network and cloud environments. In this chapter, we will learn key building blocks called virtual network functions (VNFs) related to the NFV. Mainly, VNFs are necessary to design and offer scalable and reliable networking setups for advanced networking environments. For example, we discussed how the 5G core network is designed and deployed by virtualizing its control plane and user plane functions to meet unique requirements of 5G use cases. As part of experimenting with the VNFs, this chapter discusses a step-by-step procedure for setting up and deploying necessary networking services as Virtual network functions (VNFs) over the Docker platform.