What is VNS Virtualized network services

VNS (Virtualized Network Services) can have two different meanings in the networking world, depending on the context. Here's a breakdown of both interpretations:

1. VNS as a generic term for Network Virtualization Services:

In a broad sense, VNS refers to network services that are delivered using Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) technologies. NFV allows network functions traditionally performed by dedicated hardware appliances to be virtualized and run on standard IT hardware. This enables:

• Agility and Flexibility: Network services can be deployed, scaled, and modified more quickly and easily compared to traditional hardware-based solutions.
• Improved Resource Utilization: Virtualization allows for efficient utilization of server resources, reducing hardware costs and energy consumption.
• Standardization: Virtualized network functions can be deployed across different hardware platforms, promoting greater interoperability and vendor independence.

Examples of VNS under this definition include:

• Virtualized firewalls: Providing network security functionalities through software instead of dedicated hardware appliances.
• Virtualized load balancers: Distributing network traffic across multiple servers to improve performance and scalability.
• SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) services: Automating and optimizing WAN connectivity through software-defined controllers and virtualized network functions.

2. VNS as a specific product or service offering:

Several vendors offer specific products or services under the name "VNS." These can vary depending on the vendor, but some common examples include:

• Nuage Networks VNS: This is a product suite from Nokia (formerly Nuage Networks) that provides a comprehensive set of virtualized network services for enterprise and service provider networks. It encompasses functions like SD-WAN, virtual firewalls, and network address translation (NAT).
• Verizon Virtual Network Services: Verizon offers a range of virtualized network services for businesses, including SD-WAN, security solutions, and managed network services.

Here are some additional points to consider when encountering VNS:

• Context is key: The specific meaning of VNS often depends on the context in which it's used. Look for clues in the surrounding text or from the vendor/source to understand whether it refers to the broader concept of NFV-based services or a specific product offering.
• Focus on functionalities: Regardless of the specific term used, the key takeaway is understanding the functionalities delivered as virtualized network services. These services aim to provide agility, efficiency, and improved network management compared to traditional hardware-centric approaches.

By understanding both interpretations of VNS, you can effectively navigate technical discussions and identify the most relevant meaning based on the context.