Bringing GitOps and Infrastructure as Code to virtual network functions with open source tools. We combine Kubernetes operators and KubeVirt to manage virtual routers like containers.

We explore an operator that transforms router configuration into Kubernetes CRDs, enabling GitOps and Infrastructure as Code for network infrastructure. Configuration is managed through kubectl or GitOps workflows. Changes trigger reconciliation that syncs to the router VM through sidecar containers, eliminating management networks and SSH. All changes are tracked and can be rolled back easily.

The session covers watching CRD changes, translating to router commands, and pushing updates without out-of-band management. We discuss state drift, reconciliation loops, and sync patterns. You'll see how treating Router VMs as Kubernetes resources simplifies operations and uses the same tools as your applications.

Topics covered:
- Router management without SSH, mgmt networks, or init config
- Treating network infrastructure as code
- Operator-based configuration sync
- Applying GitOps workflows to network functions
- Security benefits of the operator approach