The terms SDN (Software Defined Networks) and NFV (Network Functions Virtualization) have acquired magical connotations for those who work with networks but are not technical, raising many expectations. Are SDN and NFV really such a game changer for networking? SDN and NFV are among the half dozen or so technologies seeking to address the issues that trouble contemporary networks. The other major technologies in the mix include GMPLS, ASON, high-speed Ethernet, NGN, and OTN, with a good deal of overlap between the various solutions that have been proposed.