What is Nutanix Flow?

Nutanix Flow is a software‑defined networking and security solution for Nutanix AHV that provides microsegmentation, application‑centric security policies, and simple virtual networking without requiring changes to the physical network. It includes both, Nutanix Flow Virtual Networking and Nutanix Flow Network Security.

Is Nutanix Flow considered Software-Defined Networking?

Software-Defined Networking as defined by the open network foundation describes the physical separation of the network control plane from the forwarding plane, and where the control plan manages multiple devices. Nutanix Flow meets the traditional definition of Software-Defined Networking, with an independent network control plane, the Flow controller, physically separate from the forwarding plane that consists of Nutanix AHV hosts as well as gateway VMs.

What does “microsegmentation” mean in Nutanix Flow?

Microsegmentation is the practice of isolating workloads so only the right virtual machines can communicate with each other. Flow enforces these rules at the VM and pod level, helping prevent lateral movement and improving overall security.

Do I need to change my physical network to use Flow?

No. Flow works entirely in software on the Nutanix platform, so you can apply security policies and virtual networking features without modifying switches, routers, or VLANs.

How does Flow improve security for my applications?

Flow applies distributed firewall rules directly on each host, ensuring consistent enforcement. Policies follow the virtualized or container application, not the IP address, which reduces misconfigurations and strengthens Zero Trust security.

What is the difference between Flow Network Security and Flow Virtual Networking?

Flow Network Security focuses on microsegmentation and distributed firewalling. Flow Virtual Networking adds SDN‑style capabilities like virtual routers, network overlays, and simplified network provisioning.

Does Flow only work with AHV?

Yes. Nutanix Flow is designed specifically for the AHV hypervisor and integrates tightly with Prism Central for policy management and visibility. In addition Flow can also extend to containerized workloads on the Nutanix Kubernetes Platform.

How hard is it to get started with Nutanix Flow?

Flow is intentionally built for simplicity: you enable it in Prism Central, assign categories to your workloads, and apply security policies through guided, wizard‑driven workflows. Many organizations start by monitoring traffic patterns before enforcing rules, and the overall experience is far easier to deploy and manage than other microsegmentation and security solutions commonly found in traditional virtualization environments.