Abstract: The disclosure provides an approach for avoiding packet loops when routes are aggregated in a data center. Embodiments include scanning logical segments associated with a customer gateway to identify network addresses associated with the logical segments. Embodiments include determining one or more recommended supernets based on the network addresses associated with the logical segments. Embodiments include providing output to a user based on the one or more recommended supernets. Embodiments include, based on the output, receiving input from the user configuring an aggregation supernet for the customer gateway. Embodiments include advertising the aggregation supernet to one or more endpoints separate from the customer gateway.

Abstract: A network function virtualization (NFV) compute element installs an image supporting a virtualized network function (VNF) on the element. The image includes instructions/data to initiate a TCP connection between the element and a Software Defined Network (SDN) controller upon reboot of the element. Upon rebooting, the element establishes, as client in accordance with the instructions/data, a TCP connection with the controller. The element then accepts, as a cryptographic network protocol server, a connection via the TCP connection from the controller as a client in accordance with the instructions. Next, the element accepts, as a network management protocol server, a connection via the cryptographic network protocol connection from the controller as network management protocol client.