VXLAN Overview

VXLAN

VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) is a network virtualization technology that enables the creation of virtualized Layer 2 networks over a Layer 3 infrastructure. It encapsulates Ethernet frames in UDP packets, allowing for the extension of Layer 2 segments across geographically dispersed data centers or cloud environments. It uses MAC Address-in-User Datagram Protocol (MAC-in-UDP) encapsulation to provide a means to extend Layer 2 segments across the core network. VXLAN is particularly useful in large-scale data center deployments, where it helps to overcome the limitations of traditional VLANs, such as the VLAN counts and scalability issues with Layer 2 protcols such as STP (Spanning Tree Protocol).

Cisco provides a comprehensive solution for VXLAN management through the Nexus Dashboard management, which simplifies the deployment and operation of VXLAN in Cisco Nexus environments. The Nexus Dashboard offers a centralized platform for managing VXLAN configurations, monitoring network performance, and automating operational tasks.

Infrastructure as Code (IaC) with VXLAN

Infrastructure as Code (IaC) is a key principle in modern network management, allowing for the automation and orchestration of network configurations using the same principles as software development. With IaC, network configurations can be defined in code, versioned, and deployed in a consistent and repeatable manner. For VXLAN deployments, IaC enables users to more effectively manage complex VXLAN topologies. Since VXLAN is composed of two distinct networks, the underlay and overlay, an automated approach makes it easier for network operators to manage change.

Infrastructure as Code (IaC) also introduces software concepts such as testing and validation, which are essential for ensuring the reliability and stability of network configurations. By applying IaC principles to VXLAN deployments, users can achieve greater agility, scalability, and operational efficiency in managing their network infrastructure.

To manage VXLAN configurations on Cisco Nexus devices, operators can leverage the capabilities of Nexus Dashboard, which provides a robust API for managing configurations programmatically, enabling automation for configuration management, software image management and observability. Also each Nexus device contains a robust API structure that allows for programmatic interactions with the device. This capability is known as NX-API.

Nexus Dashboard VXLAN Overview

Network as Code Nexus Dashboard VXLAN provides a comprehensive Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) solution for managing VXLAN configurations using Nexus Dashboard for the Cisco Nexus platform. Utilizing the same principles as used for all Network as Code solutions, NaC Nexus Dashboard VXLAN allows users to define, deploy, and manage VXLAN configurations in a declarative manner. This approach simplifies the management of complex network topologies and enhances operational efficiency.