Internet traffic is unprecedented in the times of COVID-19. People are working from home and reasons for being connected online is varying. Uncertainty lies ahead as networks are slowing down. However, we have some solace remaining in ‘distant touch’ and communicating professionally and personally with edge devices. They are proving to be useful gadgets until offices will be able to function normally. The support of network slicing ensures there is no interruption to 5G operations wherever they are available and functioning to maximum capacity. Users are flocking to video streaming services to keep themselves busy while being isolated for long periods. This period calls for a stronger network function virtualization using new technologies.
How does bandwidth behave and stretch during these compelling times? We sort out the dilemma by trying to understand the contributions of mobile computing and networking slicing.
Current situation worldwide
To appreciate the architecture of network function virtualization (NFV), a brief note on the current situation requires a tacit inference. While working in offices, employees consume low bandwidth frequencies like sending emails to clients or various departments within the organization. However, while operating from home the bandwidth is stretched to its maximum capacity. Currently, each member of the household is vying for internet attention. While you need to communicate remotely with the office, the kids need the same bandwidth for videos or gaming purpose. The patterns of traffic are similar in several households. Slowing down of networks in certain areas is inevitable. Many policies of net neutrality seem redundant as congestion is dominant. It is also a big demand and challenge for operators and distributors to meet content supplies. The concept of NFV, a full service technology which enables nodal networks is a savior to balance bandwidth behavior/patterns. It builds blocks that connect several networking services and is ideal for offices that operate with advanced systems. Its best utilization is for people who work remotely. Several enterprise designs utilize this concept which is independent of hardware. In times of a virtual and physical lockdown, when each person works from home, the same assumes significance and high priority.
An ideal NFV workflow layer runs along various functions. A diagram below illustrates how it can be deployed.
Where this system operates best
The maximum usage of this layered design is being carried out by the telecom sector worldwide. The software and hardware are independent of each other. The vendors maximize the network and develop new stations for effective communication channels. They also provide additional innovative service packages to customers. As the two i.e. the hardware and software are decoupled there is a large scope of adding provisions to the original gamut of offerings. They offer consumers benefits like proprietary hardware, DNS, caching and firewall services. Agility and flexibility is the need of the hour so that congestion is tackled without networks crashing or disruption in telecommunications through smartphones. Devices with advanced features for internet connectivity are in demand and also the perfect infrastructure to remain operational for several businesses.
Edge devices capabilities and connection with NFV
Most people browse across networks on their smartphones. This technology is here to stay and also improve with the assistance of network function virtualization. Several edge devices relate to mobile computing. They are a good influence in app development and their expansion. They function with a single or multiple virtual mechanisms. The 5G networks produce the least latency with multi-edge computing. The infrastructure is similar to network function virtualization which is used for transfer of data from hardware to software. Just in case the networks are challenged with congestion during peak hours or traffic overload in times of crisis, the NFV offers prime solutions. With agility, integration, and combined features it is set to address several issues successfully. As 5G is already being used in US and Europe, the NFV designs are geared to adapt to network slicing, another significant component that affects bandwidth behavior.
Sophisticated slicing three-layer option
Network slicing brings everyone on the same platform as it refers to services, infrastructure, and function of networks. It works on the following premise depicted in the diagram below.
There are plenty of advantages of slicing the networks. They include, the ability of specific configurations to rely niche services to customers. With this agility, the end users are happy to get flexibility while communicating even during peak hours. It helps the telecom sector to control capital and operational expenses even during emergencies. The same layers of network work in any time zone which make the services efficient even if they run on complex systems.
As the entire world waits to get over the current crisis, the network function virtualization is showing its true strength. As it gains momentum there are chances that it will also be used effectively for virtual security purposes. It will balance the need to function from anywhere and anytime.
