> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://kubernetes.feisky.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://kubernetes.feisky.xyz/en/extension/network/opencontrail.md).

# OpenContrail

OpenContrail represents Juniper Networks' venture into the open-source realm of network virtualization, complemented by its commercial counterpart known as Contrail.

## The Blueprint

The OpenContrail infrastructure primarily consists of two pivotal components:

* The **Controller** orchestrates the creation, control, and analytical operations for virtual networks.
* The **vRouter** facilitates distributed routing, eager to manage the establishment of virtual routers and networks, as well as the handling of data forwarding.

![](https://4011040894-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-LDAOok5ngY4pc1lEDes-1972196547%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-bc3aa20e67af7cb6941c497feb54640a8dee4cd4%2FFigure01%20\(2\).png?alt=media)

The vRouter notably operates in three distinct flavors:

* **Kernel vRouter**: Carries a resemblance to the OVS kernel module.
* **DPDK vRouter**: Mirrors the capabilities of ovs-dpdk.
* **Netronome Agilio Solution (a commercial product)**: Ready to support a trifecta of advanced networking technologies including DPDK, SR-IOV, and Express Virtio (XVIO).

![](https://4011040894-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-LDAOok5ngY4pc1lEDes-1972196547%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-f21ad7664c7f164924a0b10f1da8b1f35045ea24%2Fimage05%20\(2\).png?alt=media)

**Further Reading**

* [Dive into the OpenContrail Architecture](http://www.opencontrail.org/opencontrail-architecture-documentation/)
* [A Deeper Understanding of Network Virtualization Architecture](http://www.opencontrail.org/network-virtualization-architecture-deep-dive/)