How do software-defined networks (SDN) differ from traditional networks?

Software-defined networks (SDN) are characterized by their separation of the control plane from the data plane. In traditional networks, both planes are typically integrated within hardware devices, which makes the network configuration and management more rigid and dependent on physical hardware capabilities. By decoupling these two functions, SDNs allow for a centralized control layer to manage the network through software applications, while the data plane continues to forward packets based on the rules established by the control plane.

This separation leads to several advantages, including greater flexibility, more straightforward network management, and the possibility for more dynamic configurations that can adapt to changing network conditions or requirements. It simplifies the process of deploying new services and can also enhance overall network efficiency, as the control functionality can be handled programmatically without being tied to specific physical devices.

Cloud-based management and scalability considerations are relevant issues in network design and management but are not the defining characteristics that separate SDN from traditional networks. Instead, the unique separation of control and data planes is central to the SDN paradigm, enabling the network to be more programmable and responsive to the user's needs.