OpenFlow is an open source protocol for software-defined networking, meaning system builders can modify it and users can program it to define the paths their network traffic should take and under what conditions, regardless of the underlying hardware. OpenFlow puts more network design controls into the hands of the system builders, application developers and network architects compared to traditional switches that use proprietary software and controls.

While NEC wouldn't release pricing specifics, the spokesperson also promised, "NEC's OpenFlow is a fraction of the cost of alternative solutions for typical deployments."

Background:

The vPFS Virtual Switch for Windows Server 8 will tap into Hyper-V's Extensible Switch API, too extending a network administrator's custom programming options even further. The virtual network can be "configured and monitored with one central control and network traffic can be visualized from end to end," says NEC.

NEC demonstrated ProgrammableFlow operating in a Windows Server 8 environment at the recent Microsoft BUILD developer conference in Anaheim, Calif.