Evolution of OpenCache: an OpenSource Virtual Content Distribution Network (vCDN) Platform

Operators recognise that Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) are essential for meeting user Internet application and content demands, while tightly integrating to provide request routing, content caching, load balancing. A major step towards achieving these goals is to embrace recent Software Defined Network and Network Function Virtualisation objectives and design principles. OpenCache, an experimental caching platform, includes architectural design decisions, functional components and highlights of virtualising the key processes of caching content and control functions. We provide examples of how OpenCache may be deployed to provide a vCDN infrastructure, and the benefits it can provide. We also highlight how OpenCache may evolve to integrate with recent Standards Development Organisation (SDO) initiatives.