Abstract: A platform provides a novel mechanism of implementation and operation for network functions such as switching, routing, firewalling, load balancing, isolation, etc. In the prior art, all the network functions are defined and instantiated within the software- or hardware-based network appliances. In the present invention, all the network appliances execute only the content delivery instructions received from business applications. Virtual service templates are used by application developers to describe different sets of application communication roles. The new platform includes a controller that stores those templates, authorizes interactions between platform components, collects information about the running state of platform components, and assists applications with the use of the platform.