Security issues over Software-Defined Networks (SDN)

The use of Software-Defined Networks۱ is expanding exponentially, which would replace the traditional networks soon. These networks have created new opportunities for centralized network development and management, beside the development of security programs to make SDN more secure, the vulnerability of SDN against network-based attacks is one of the significant security challenges. As the researchers of the SDN utilize new applications, the security of these networks becomes more important [۱]. Therefore, a deep understanding of these networks and investigate the advantages and disadvantages besides trying to improve security is necessary. In this paper, firstly the SDN and the OpenFlow protocol have been studied, and then the security of these networks and their weaknesses and strengths have been deeply investigated. Finally, the conclusions and necessary approaches to enhance security have been highlighted and outlined.

Keywords:

Software-Defined Network , Security , OpenFlow Protocol.