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Managing networks in Windows Server vNext

Virtually Switched

Article from ADMIN 28/2015

By Thomas Joos

We look at a new component in Windows Server vNext – the Network Controller server role.

The Windows Server Network Controller enables centralized management, monitoring, and configuration of network devices on Windows Server. Network Controller is designed to offer the same functions for network devices that IP address management does for managing IP addresses – with the difference that Network Controller also can centrally manage devices from third-party manufacturers. You can also manage systems in the cloud.

In addition to hardware devices, you can also manage software-based network services with the Network Controller, which runs on both Windows Server vNext and Windows Server 2012 R2. Currently, it is not clear whether older versions are supported, too. The expectation is that all Network Controller functions will be available only through collaboration between Windows Server vNext and System Center vNext.

Managing Virtual and Physical Networks

Network Controller gives you the ability to manage physical network components and virtual networks centrally in Windows Server vNext and to operate them together. Automated configuration is the focus. Other features include options for accessing individual devices via PowerShell, if supported by the device manufacturer.

Network Controller provides two APIs through the interface function: an API that communicates with the end devices and an API that acts as an administrator for management tasks. Therefore, all devices are managed through only one interface on the network. You can manage the following devices: