F5 Unveils BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 to Power AI and High-Bandwidth Applications in Cloud-Native Environments

F5 (NASDAQ: FFIV), a global leader in multi-cloud application security and delivery, has launched BIG-IP Next Cloud-Native Network Functions (CNF) 2.0, delivering scalable, secure, and resource-efficient network functionality for AI-driven and high-bandwidth applications. This next-gen solution enhances the F5 Application Delivery and Security Platform (ADSP) and is purpose-built for Kubernetes environments.

The new release targets telecommunications service providers, internet service providers (ISPs), cloud service providers, and large enterprises that must efficiently manage increasing data demands, heightened security risks, and complex distributed infrastructure.

“Service providers and large enterprises are under pressure to scale faster, operate leaner, and stay secure,” said Kunal Anand, Chief Innovation Officer at F5. “BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 introduces true cloud-native functionality—unlike legacy virtualized models—offering smarter scaling, robust protection, and seamless delivery of modern workloads.”

Cloud-Native Innovation for Modern Infrastructure

F5 BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 introduces a Kubernetes-native architecture, enabling organizations to:

• Scale horizontally with Disaggregation (DAG) for optimized traffic routing.

• Accelerate DNS responses, reducing latency with caching and secure zone transfers.

• Leverage Policy Enforcer tools for URL filtering, video optimization, and contextual controls.

• Consolidate firewall, DDoS mitigation, IPS, and carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT) into unified, manageable services.

• Optimize cost-efficiency with independent scaling of control and data planes.

Tailored for High-Bandwidth and AI-Driven Applications

Designed for high-traffic and AI-intensive workloads, BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 reduces CPU usage by 33%, delivers over 60% infrastructure cost savings, and guarantees low-latency performance at the edge. Whether supporting N6/SGi-LAN architectures in 5G networks or handling IPv4 shortages for ISPs, the solution ensures bandwidth optimization and seamless traffic steering.

Cloud providers gain GSLB capabilities and AI-ready DNS acceleration, while enterprises benefit from automated policy enforcement, advanced SecOps tools, and intelligent traffic optimization.

F5 + Red Hat OpenShift: Enhanced Kubernetes Integration

At Red Hat Summit 2025, F5 is showcasing BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0’s compatibility with Red Hat OpenShift, enhancing hybrid cloud deployment strategies. The collaboration ensures secure, high-performance deployment of cloud-native applications on Red Hat’s trusted Kubernetes platform.

Together, F5 and Red Hat empower service providers to:

• Scale applications rapidly and consistently.

• Simplify Kubernetes-based workflows with API-driven automation.

• Fortify cloud-native deployments with integrated security and optimized network services.

As digital experiences become increasingly bandwidth-intensive, F5 BIG-IP Next CNF 2.0 emerges as a vital enabler for industries looking to future-proof operations, reduce overhead, and meet modern application demands without compromising security or performance.