Open Networking Foundation launches OpenFlow certification program

The Open Networking Foundation (ONF), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting software-defined networking (SDN), has announced the OpenFlow Conformance Program. The new certification program provides networking vendors an opportunity to demonstrate compliance with the OpenFlow specification.

The ONF positions its Certificate of Conformance as the highest level of assurance available in the market to validate compliance with a particular version of the OpenFlow specification. Vendors can earn an ONF Certificate of Conformance for networking hardware such as switches and routers, as well as network software.

The ONF Certificate of Conformance provides significant benefits for both vendors and end users, the organization believes. Vendors with certified products benefit from shortened development cycles, faster product deployment, and advance access to testing protocols through activities such as the ONF PlugFest program. End users gain confidence knowing the certified product is using current technology and is guaranteed to accurately implement the OpenFlow specification.

“The program assures that the products purchased and implemented are deployment-ready for end users’ networking environments, as well as future-looking for compatibility with the increasing number of SDN solutions built on an OpenFlow foundation,” said Rick Bauer, technical program manager at ONF. “The certified products deliver predictable results, reinforcing the end users’ overall confidence in the vendor.”

ONF has selected the Indiana Center for Network Translational Research and Education (InCNTRE) as the first independent lab approved for ONF OpenFlow Conformance testing. Additional labs are currently in the accreditation process.

To obtain an ONF Certificate of Conformance, vendors must contact an approved test lab, complete an application form, and work with the lab to define a mutually agreeable schedule for product delivery. Once the lab certifies that the product meets the ONF OpenFlow Conformance Test Specification requirements, the product is awarded an ONF OpenFlow Certificate of Conformance.

For more information about the ONF OpenFlow Conformance Program, visit: https://www.opennetworking.org/openflow-conformance-testing-program.

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