Also known as VM-aware networks, virtualization-aware networks are powered by network switches that fully recognize and manage virtual machines (VMs). As a result, virtualization-aware networks enable data centers to efficiently configure and migrate virtual machines across the network as well as into the cloud while avoiding potential access or security issues.
Whereas traditional network switches lack awareness of virtual machines, creating the potential for security and migration issues in virtualized environments, VM-aware network switches provide network configuration at a virtual port level, enabling the dynamic and automatic movement of VMs across the network.
Examples of virtualization-aware network switches and software include Cisco’s Nexus 1000V and BLADE s VMready solutions, which utilize the IEEE 902.1Qbg working group s virtual Ethernet (vEth) bridging interface and port aggregator technologies.
See also: VM-aware networks, VM-aware storage and Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
