SOX A Generalized and Extensibl Smart network Openflow Controller

In this white paper, we describe a generalized controller SOX, Smart Network Openflow Controller, to deal with above mentioned circumstances. It is architected, designed, and implemented with the aim to control a SDN network with a mixed type of switches from different or incompatible standard versions. Specifically we describe the design principle, features, and the functional requirements, based on and derived from OF 1.2 and 1.0 specifications, core functional and non-functional requirements, architectural considerations, and core controller components. We will cover the status of SOX, especially what have been done and what have been demonstrated in the recent ONF PlugFest event. As SDN is “SOFTWARE” defined, we adopted sound software engineering practice in the architecture and design of SOX from its early days. As a consequence, it also allows us to discuss the whole life-cycle of SOX.