OpenSDN Southbound Traffic Characterization: Proof-of-Concept Virtualized SDN-Infrastructure

This Proof-of-Concept (PoC) research presents a conceptualization of main OpenFlow Southbound messages found in Software-Defined Networks. The use of an open-source network emulator has allowed to conduct traffic captures in order to contrast the theory with a high reliability PoC scenario. This paper begins by defining SDN according to Open Networking Foundation (ONF), as well as identifying characteristics, elements, and fundamental protocols of this technology that is changing the traditional paradigm of sending data. In order to test theory in practice, an OpenFlow network built with an Open-vSwitch (OVS), two hosts and external SDN Docker Controller were emulated using Mininet, a very efficient controller-based emulator. Later, SDN-packet captures were done for analysis. Connectivity tests are proposed to capture OpenFlow messages exchanged between different devices of the network, and with that, verifying its encapsulation, structure, and vulnerabilities. The ultimate aim of the present paper is to provide a clearer and more understandable vision of SDN and its operation in the real world.