Cloud-Native Network Functions (CNFs)
F5 CNFs provide a cloud-native solution that is secure, automated, and scalable, critical for the transition to 5G networks.
Use Cases
CNFs are perfect for moving workloads to a cloud-native architecture. Service providers and large enterprises can automate and virtualize their operations to scale their networks.
Combine for a consolidated solution
Lightweight and scalable services
Protection for network functions
Deploying a Kubernetes architecture
The Time Is Now to Add CNFs for 4G and 5G Networks
Cloud-native network functions aren't only for 5G future goals, but also to refresh outdated technologies for IT and Telco workloads.
How it Works
A Helm chart with an F5 configuration is sent to the API Server on the Kubernetes Control Plane Node. The F5 BIG-IP Controller will deploy the new configurations to the F5 components on the worker nodes and traffic can be sent through the network.
Figure 1: CNF design overview
Product Features
BIG-IP Next Edge Firewall CNF
Firewall, DDoS and intrusion prevention system technology based on F5’s Advanced Firewall Manager.
BIG-IP Next DNS CNF
Enable DNS caching and reduce DNS latency up to 80%.
Hardware Offload
Increase performance by offloading functionality to FPGAs or to Intel SmartNICs.
Consolidated data plane
Offload SSL processing, deploy application delivery and security services anywhere, and protect your applications against the most prevalent attacks.
BIG-IP Next CGNAT CNF
Ease IPv6 migration and improve network scalability and security with IPv4 address management.
BIG-IP Next Policy Enforcer CNF
Improve QoE and ARPU with tools like traffic classification and subscriber awareness.
Carrier-Grade services
CNFs include native IPv6 and telco protocol support.
Orchestrated by Kubernetes
Native Kubernetes API is extended with CRDs to ensure F5 products can be configured properly.
