OVERLAY NETWORK Meaning and
Definition
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An overlay network is a virtual network that is constructed on top of an existing network infrastructure, often the Internet. This network overlay is created to optimize network performance or provide additional functionalities that are not available in the underlying network.
In an overlay network, nodes or devices are interconnected in a logical manner, regardless of their physical locations. These nodes communicate with each other using virtual links, which can be established using tunneling protocols, such as Virtual Private Network (VPN) or Network Address Translation (NAT). As a result, the overlay network can traverse different network domains without being constrained by the physical infrastructure.
Overlay networks are commonly used for various purposes, including enhancing security, improving scalability, or enabling specific applications. For example, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be considered an overlay network, as it creates a secure communication channel over a shared or public network, offering privacy and confidentiality to its users.
Furthermore, overlay networks can be employed for resource optimization, such as load balancing or content delivery networks (CDNs). In these cases, the overlay network is designed to distribute traffic or content efficiently, minimizing latency and maximizing availability.
Overall, an overlay network provides an additional layer of abstraction and functionality on top of an existing network infrastructure, offering flexibility, scalability, and enhanced performance for specific requirements or applications.
Etymology of OVERLAY NETWORK
The term "overlay network" consists of two words: "overlay" and "network".
The word "overlay" originated from the Middle English word "overley", which meant to cover or spread over something. It combines the prefix "over", indicating excess or addition, and the verb "lay", meaning to place or put something on top of another surface. Over time, "overley" evolved into "overlay" with a similar meaning.
The word "network" traces its roots back to the Old English word "nettweorc", combining "nett", meaning a net or mesh, and "weorc", meaning work or activity. The term reflects the idea of interconnected elements forming a complex structure.
Together, "overlay network" refers to a network that is built on top of an existing network, typically using virtualization techniques, to provide additional functionality, services, or abstraction.
