Next-Generation Network Security: An Analysis of Threats, Challenges and Emerging Intelligent Defenses Within SDN and NFV Architectures

The integration of Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) offers considerable advantages in terms of scalability, interoperability, and cost-efficiency. They redefine network architecture, replacing rigid hardware-based control with a more flexible, software-driven approach. However, this convergence also introduces significant security threats and challenges due to architectural vulnerabilities and an expanded attack surface. This study presents a comprehensive overview of the key security risks associated with SDN/NFV networks. It analyzes existing countermeasures, highlighting their effectiveness in addressing specific threats while identifying limitations in achieving comprehensive security due to inherent architectural vulnerabilities. The study concludes with a discussion on open challenges and future research directions toward more secure and resilient network infrastructures. This study highlights the importance of an integrated security approach and identifies areas where further research is required to enhance SDN/NFV security.

@article{SAHBI2025,
  title     = {Next-Generation Network Security: An Analysis of Threats, Challenges and Emerging Intelligent Defenses Within SDN and NFV Architectures},
  journal   = {International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications},
  volume    = {16},
  number    = {8},
  year      = {2025},
  publisher = {The Science and Information Organization},
  author    = {Amina SAHBI and Faouzi JAIDI and Adel BOUHOULA},
  doi       = {10.14569/IJACSA.2025.0160898},
  url       = {https://doi.org/10.14569/IJACSA.2025.0160898}
}