May 28, 2025
ETSI is pleased to announce the 5th Release of TeraFlowSDN, the Software-Defined Networking (SDN) controller developed by Software Development Group TFS.
TFS Release 5 brings a large suite of new features where main advances include the integration of an IETF Network Slice Controller, SmartNIC support, enhanced telemetry capabilities, broader OpenFlow support and Zero Touch provisioning for white boxes.
“TeraFlowSDN Release 5 represents a significant leap forward in network automation and optimization. The integration of the Network Slice Controller and enhanced telemetry capabilities positions this release as a powerful tool for operators to manage 5G and beyond, delivering a more dynamic, agile, and efficient network infrastructure.” Luis Miguel Contreras, Telefónica, TFS NSC Module Leader.
Network Slice Controller (NSC)
TeraFlowSDN Release 5 is integrating the new IETF-defined Network Slice Controller (NSC), which streamlines the process of orchestrating network slices from initiation to implementation.
SmartNIC Support
The TeraFlowSDN Controller now enabling detailed context information management, such as manufacturers, models, serial numbers, and transceiver data.
End-to-End Service with In-Band Network Telemetry (INT)
TeraFlowSDN Release 5 includes functionality allowing for real-time monitoring, and telemetry in P4 data planes. This is crucial for dynamic network management and optimization, ensuring seamless data flow and reduced latency for critical applications.
Enhanced Telemetry and Analytics
TFS Release 5 is now with new backend collector functionalities based on gNMI/OpenConfig. This enhancement supports better network data integration, improving monitoring and analytics to optimize network performance and reliability. Additionally, the new Telemetry Backend Collector facilitates testing of monitoring components using emulated data, making network troubleshooting more efficient.
Expanded OpenFlow Support
Through the Ryu SDN controller, TeraFlowSDN now offers broader compatibility with OpenFlow domains. This feature enables seamless interaction between TeraFlowSDN and the Ryu SDN controller’s REST-API, expanding the versatility of network control in diverse SDN environments.
Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) for White boxes:
Through a new ZTP server, TFS Release 5 enables the configuration and set up Whitebox switches. This feature is crucial for automating network provisioning, allowing rapid deployment and management of network hardware with minimal manual intervention.
“In-band Network Telemetry is essential for achieving the next level of network performance monitoring, and with the P4 Service handler in TeraFlowSDN Release 5, we can now seamlessly capture, analyze, and optimize network traffic in real time. This addition marks a key advancement in how we understand and manage network data flow.” Georgios Katsikas, Ubitech, TFS TSC member."
Upcoming Webinar
A dedicated Webinar will take place in July to introduce and demonstrate new features in TFS Release 5, stay tuned!
Recent events
The SDG TFS community held its TFS#7 Plenary, Hackfest, and Ecosystem Day meetings from May 19 to 22 in Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain, where the new Network Slice Controller was showcased. The events were held in conjunction with the ETSI SDG OpenSlice and ISG F5G plenary sessions to encourage synergies between various communities. All the TFS#7 Hackfest and Ecosystem Day material can be found at this link.
About ETSI
ETSI provides members with an open and inclusive environment to support the timely development, ratification and testing of globally applicable standards for ICT‑enabled systems, applications and services across all sectors of industry and society. We are a not-for-profit body with more than 900 member organizations worldwide, drawn from 64 countries and five continents. Members comprise a diversified pool of large and small private companies, research entities, academia, government and public organizations. ETSI is one of only three bodies officially recognized by the EU as a European Standards Organization (ESO).
