The deployment of a traditional wide area network (WAN) is rooted in a vertically-integrated topology, where devices like routers and switches are proprietary hardware appliances with bundled software. While this approach has proven its mettle over the years, it’s increasingly evident that in our dynamic digital era, marked by technological advancements and evolving cyber threats, it lacks the flexibility needed for customization, upgrades, scaling, and security enhancements.
These challenges range from complex software licensing and slow updates of the built-in network operating system (NOS) to high network expansion costs and vendor lock-in. Over time, these accumulate, leaving companies grappling with a limited feature range, a basic application stack, limited business development agility, scarce edge computing capabilities, and heightened security risks.
Modern data centers and communication providers, such as ISPs and telecom carriers, can’t afford to be hamstrung by slow hardware refresh cycles. Their networks need to support diverse services, manage high traffic volumes, and adapt to emerging technologies like AI and 5G. This urgency has paved the way for disaggregated routing solutions. These solutions introduce a model that severs the rigid ties between hardware and software, centering on off-the-shelf white box hardware optimized for high throughput and low latency.
Such a device can run any NOS, granting organizations the liberty to select the most fitting software environment, and to seamlessly integrate new applications and features as they emerge. The benefits of disaggregated networking, such as cost-effectiveness, vendor independence, and rapid innovation, are clear. Yet, one often overlooked advantage is its potential to elevate network security.
Disaggregation Takes Network Security to the Next Level
By decoupling software from hardware, organizations gain enhanced control over security measures, translating to improved protection capabilities. Here are some ways this design can bolster network security:
- Quick software updates and patches: With a modular software architecture, components can be updated or patched individually, independent of the underlying hardware.
- Best-of-breed security tools: Network disaggregation permits the selection of advanced security features from various vendors.
- Reduced risks from vendor lock-in: Vendor diversity allows companies to switch providers without a complete infrastructure overhaul if issues arise.
- Granular security controls: This offers more precise configuration of security policies, access rules, and threat detection mechanisms.
- Isolation and segmentation: Separating control and data plane functionalities helps contain breaches and prevent lateral threat movement.
- Custom security implementations: Companies can easily integrate third-party defensive tools or develop custom security features.
- Scalable security architecture: Security measures can scale independently of the hardware.
- Centralized management: This enhances visibility and control, simplifying monitoring and incident response.
- Secure boot and hardware verification: These features ensure only trusted components run on routing devices.
However, it’s crucial to note that while disaggregation offers numerous security advantages, it isn’t a silver bullet. A holistic approach, encompassing strong security practices, regular audits, employee training, and adherence to best practices, is essential.
The State of the Industry
The principle of disaggregating hardware and software began shaping networking conversations around the mid-2010s. Until then, the market was largely dominated by vertically structured routing solutions from established vendors. With this landscape, many organizations found themselves locked into expensive tools with limited innovation.
Disaggregated solutions have since democratized the industry, bridging the gap between merchant-based hardware and organizational requirements. One company that has notably navigated this shift is Exaware. Their end-to-end routing solution, designed with scalability and interoperability in mind, combines white box carrier networking hardware with their network operating system, ExaNOS.
“As we navigate the complexities of our digital age, the importance of disaggregated networks becomes increasingly clear. They represent the next frontier in networking, offering unparalleled flexibility and adaptability. These networks are poised to address the challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow. At Exaware, we recognize this shift and are dedicated to leading the way in this transformative journey,” states David Zelig, CTO and co-founder of Exaware.
Network Security Reimagined
Disaggregated solutions have turned the networking world on its head, in a good way. The separation of hardware and software offers, among other things, a robust approach to enhancing the security of organizational infrastructures through adaptable protection measures in an evolving digital landscape.
It allows more streamlined updates and patches compared to monolithic architectures, thereby minimizing vulnerability windows. Granular control over security policies ensures compliance and frictionless customization. Importantly, disaggregated networks facilitate the integration of future security enhancements and protocols to foster resilience.
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