What is Openstack?

OpenStack is an open-source cloud computing platform that controls large pools of compute, storage, and networking resources in a data center. It acts as a cloud operating system, allowing users to provision virtual servers, storage, and other resources on demand through a self-service portal or APIs. This enables the creation of public or private clouds, offering flexibility and scalability for various application deployments.

How does OpenStack Work?

OpenStack is composed of interconnected software modules called projects, each providing specific functionalities. These modules work together to create a unified cloud platform. Key components include:

  • Compute: Manages virtual machines and container instances for running applications.
  • Storage: Provides block, object, and file storage services for various data needs.
  • Networking:  Creates virtual networks and manages network traffic within the cloud.
  • Identity and Access Management:  Controls user access and permissions to cloud resources.
  • Dashboard and APIs:  Offer user interfaces and programmatic access for managing the cloud environment.

Benefits of OpenStack:

  • Open Source: Freely available and customizable, fostering community collaboration and innovation.
  • Scalabilty: Can manage small or large deployments, adapting to changing resource needs.
  • Flexibility: Supports various virtualization technologies and operating systems.
  • Cost-Effective: Can be cheaper than proprietary cloud solutions, especially for private clouds.
  • Control and Security: Users have full control over their cloud environment and data security.

Who uses OpenStack?

OpenStack is used by a wide range of organizations, including:

  • Enterprise IT: Building private clouds for internal applications and deployments.
  • Service Providers: Offering public cloud services to customers.
  • Web and Mobile App Developers: Deploying and scaling applications quickly and efficiently.
  • Research Institutions: Running large-scale simulations and scientific computations.
  • Government Agencies: Building secure and reliable cloud infrastructure.

What will you learn here?

This page can provide you with comprehensive knowledge of OpenStack, including:

  • Fundamentals: Understand the core concepts of OpenStack, its architecture, and key components.
  • Deployment Options: Explore different ways to deploy OpenStack, including on bare metal, virtual machines, or hosted platforms.
  • Project Overview: Learn about the specific functionalities and benefits of each OpenStack project.
  • Management and Automation: Learn how to manage your Cisco SD-WAN network effectively and optimize performance.
  • Advanced Features: Explore advanced capabilities like application-aware routing, security integration, and multi-cloud connectivity.

We encourage you to explore the resources listed below for further learning and to leave any questions or comments you may have.

Resources:

We hope this page serves as a valuable resource on your journey to a more agile, efficient, and secure WAN with Cisco SD-WAN!