Next generation networks aim to increase network convergence by allowing a single network architecture to serve diverse traffic types ranging from high-bandwidth video streaming to low-latency industrial automation, while meeting their respective service level requirements. Such a converged network architecture puts high requirements on flexibility, interoperability, and resilience. While current networks exhibit some degree of network convergence, they may not reach the level of interoperability required for future application areas. This is particularly prevalent in networks that depend heavily on closed and proprietary equipment, such as industrial automation and small cell backhaul networks. Recently, Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) have been proposed as solutions for increased network flexibility. By separating and logically centralizing the network control plane, SDN allows for dynamic control of the network infrastructure. NFV, on the other hand, enables flexibility and scalability through the virtualization and orchestration of network functions.

In this thesis, we investigate how SDN and NFV can be used to make next generation networks more reliable, flexible and programmable. We focus mainly on three areas: resiliency, monitoring, and control. First, we look at the usage of SDN to enable in-network resiliency in wireless access, backhaul and industrial automation networks. Next, we design and evaluate FastReact, a switch program that allows industrial automation networks to partially offload their distributed application logic to the data plane, reducing end to end latency and increasing network resiliency. Finally, we propose combining FastReact control with in-network telemetry event detection, significantly increasing the monitoring capacity by selectively discarding redundant telemetry information in the data plane.

Next generation computer networks aim to provide a single network architecture, which can support any type of service, ranging from high-bandwidth video streaming to low-latency industrial automation. Those services have a wide range of network requirements that must be supported by a single converged network, which puts high requirements on flexibility, interoperability, and resilience.

Recently, Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) have been proposed as solutions for increased network flexibility. By separating and logically centralizing the network control plane, SDN allows for dynamic control of the network infrastructure. NFV, on the other hand, enables flexibility and scalability through the virtualization and orchestration of network functions.

In this thesis, we investigate how SDN and NFV can be used to make next generation networks more reliable, flexible and programmable. We focus mainly on three different areas: resiliency, monitoring, and control, and how they can be improved upon through using SDN.