The new version streamlines the delivery of applications and APIs on Kubernetes, integrating critical functions such as firewall, CGNAT, and DDoS mitigation with unprecedented resource efficiency.
F5 has officially launched BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0, the evolution of its cloud-native network functions platform, designed to meet the increasing bandwidth demands imposed by technologies like artificial intelligence and streaming video. The announcement was made at the Red Hat Summit 2025, highlighting its integration with Red Hat OpenShift, the market-leading Kubernetes platform.
馃寪 A solution designed for modern, demanding networks
With a Kubernetes-native approach, BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 enables telecom operators, cloud service providers, ISPs, and large enterprises to consolidate critical network functions in distributed environments, without the need to rely on heavy virtualized solutions or complex VDI infrastructures.
Its key features include:
- Disaggregated DAG: intelligent horizontal scaling to optimize traffic routing.
- Accelerated DNS: faster responses and lower latency through caching and secure zone transfers.
- Policy Enforcer: traffic optimization with URL filtering, contextual controls, and video acceleration.
- Unified security services: firewall, IPS, DDoS mitigation, and CGNAT managed from a single console.
- Kubernetes-native automation: simple deployment and precise control of independent scalability between control and data planes.
馃殌 Resource optimization and infrastructure savings
F5 claims that BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 enables a 33% reduction in CPU usage and more than 60% savings in infrastructure costs, leading to lower operating expenses and greater energy efficiency, which is critical in contexts where network traffic is exponentially increasing due to the rise of generative AI, 4K video calls, and OTT services.
Additionally, the edge-ready architecture ensures low latency and stable performance in decentralized environments.
馃敀 Security and performance on the same plane
By combining DDoS attack mitigation, intrusion prevention, and carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT), the solution strengthens real-time traffic security while its modular design allows for agile responses to demand spikes without compromising data protection.
Compatibility with Red Hat OpenShift further enhances the value proposition by facilitating orchestration in hybrid and multicloud environments, leveraging a platform already adopted by thousands of providers for cloud-native operations.
馃彚 A comprehensive solution for telecom, cloud, and industry
F5 BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 is optimized for multiple use cases:
- In telecommunications, it enables scaling of 4G and 5G environments with advanced security and granular control.
- In ISPs, it helps address IPv4 shortages and manage traffic more efficiently.
- In cloud providers, it ensures a seamless experience with global load balancing and optimized DNS.
- In enterprises, it protects critical applications with automation tools and simplified network policy management.
馃搶 In summary:
- BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 redefines cloud-native network functions with a focus on efficiency, security, and scalability.
- It integrates DDoS protection, firewall, CGNAT, and DNS acceleration from a single Kubernetes-native platform.
- It reduces resource consumption and allows for more agile network scaling at lower costs.
- Compatible with Red Hat OpenShift, solidifying its proposition in multicloud and edge environments.
- Aimed at telecommunications, ISPs, cloud providers, and large companies that demand modern, resilient networks.
via: F5