Resource Orchestration in Softwarized Networks

In the last ten years we have assisted to a deep evolution of the concept of the network. This is especially due to the introduction of two new paradigms, Software Defined Networks (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) that have started the so-called process of IT-zation of the network. SDN and NFV are not the only elements that are impacting on the Telecommunication network. Cloud Computing architectures, the huge number of devices connected and their future role in this scenario are all active part of the process called Softwarization. Those three elements are the pillars for the future 5G network. The 5G network considers the integration between mobile and fixed networks. The goal is to achieve very dense coverage with all possible access technologies for all current and future services in a convergent network. This network needs very high bandwidth, very fast response time, extremely high reliability and flexibility. The network will be composed of different kind of resources and components that have to synergistically work together: they have to be orchestrated. In this thesis we focused our attention on the overall orchestration aspects with particular interest in the resource orchestration and its application in fully softwarized networks as the 5G network will be. The main objective of the thesis is the development of orchestration components for a softwarized network. In such a network, where services are virtually deployed and stringent requirements have to be ensured, the network and the cloud controller are not enough to pledge them. The orchestrator is necessary to complete what both controllers do.