Product manual

AX Series Network Partition: Solution Guide [Basic] Second Edition

1. Introduction to Network Partition

1.1 Virtualization of networks

System virtualization is a technology for separating or integrating system resources regardless of their physical

configuration. Virtualization has advantages in cost and operation due to its small physical resource requirements

compared to the assumed system size.

There are several network virtualization technologies already available, including MPLS-VPN. Unfortunately,

these existing technologies are generally designed for large-scale systems or require expensive and

high-performance devices, and thus are difficult to introduce into enterprise systems from both budgetary and

technological standpoints. Currently, opportunities for adopting these technologies are limited.

ALAXALA Networks provides a new solution to these problems: network partitions.

Figure 1.1-1 Network partition: A simple network virtualization

Network partition uses a combination of VRF (Virtual/VPN Routing and Forwarding) technology that logically

separates Layer 3 functionality and VLAN technology that establishes Layer 2 logical networks. This

combination allows the creation of multiple logical networks with a simple physical configuration.

Actual operation of network partitions requires you to know about the configuration of VRF (which is not as

complicated as MPLS-VPN) and the traditional concepts and configurations of VLANs. Required devices

include any one of the AX6700S, AX6600S, or AX6300S series switches with an option license for VRF

(OP-NPAR) as the core, and L2 switches, such as a AX2400S series or the AX1200S series one, as the

distribution or access edges. Network partition provides a solution for establishing a virtualized enterprise

network system with advantages in cost and technology.

Low-cost L2 switch

for the downstrea

Point 3

Partition 2 Partition 1

L2 Networ

Integrates VRF in

the core switch

Point 2

Independent policy

for each

artition

Point 1

P2P2

P1 P1

VLAN

VRF2VRF1