Open Networking Foundation
| Abbreviation | ONF |
|---|---|
| Formation | March 21, 2011 |
| Dissolved | December 2023; merged with Linux Foundation |
| Type | 501(c)(6) NPO |
| Purpose | Open Source networking software and Software Defined Standards |
| Website | www |
The Open Networking Foundation (ONF) was a non-profit operator-led consortium. It used an open source business model aimed at promoting networking through software-defined networking (SDN) and standardizing the OpenFlow protocol and related technologies. The standards-setting and SDN-promotion group was formed out of recognition that cloud computing will blur the distinctions between computers and networks. The initiative was meant to speed innovation through simple software changes in telecommunications networks, wireless networks, data centers and other networking areas.
In December 2023, ONF announced it was merging with the Linux Foundation (LF). Three of ONF's projects - LF Broadband, Aether and P4 - were transferred to the Linux Foundation and would be e subject to a new governance structure. As part of the merger, ONF handed over $5 million in funding to staff and operate their projects.