Next Generation Hybrid Networks and their Management - John S. Baras

Software Defined Networks (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) are technologies that have revolutionized the deployment, efficiency and dynamic management of terrestrial wireline networks, through virtualization, and have been instrumental in realizing networks as a service (NAAS). In order to realize the full potential of these technologies in both commercial and defense applications next generation hybrid networks (NextGenHyNet) have emerged, consisting of broadband terrestrial wireline networks, 5G/6G wireless networks, drones and satellites (LEOs and MEOs). This integration promises fast and economic deployment of broadband connectivity to maximum number of users, even in difficult, remote and underdeveloped regions. We describe several key challenges for the integration of these technologies from the perspective of dynamic network management, security and quality of experience. These are due primarily to the heterogeneity of the network, the great heterogeneity of traffic demand (delay and bandwidth requirements), different component dynamics, and the overall cost of deployment. We present our approaches to address these challenges. We close with brief descriptions of many applications of these next generation networks and of the services they enable.