Solution Guide for Citrix NetScaler and Cisco APIC EM
Citrix NetScaler Application Delivery Controller (ADC) leverages the Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC) Enterprise Module’s (APIC EM) REST-based APIs to deliver dynamically the best experience for video delivery to Citrix XenDesktop Clients. The APIC EM brings network abstraction and automation for WAN and Access network domains.
Solution Overview
This joint solution between Citrix NetScaler, XenDesktop and Cisco APIC-EM can be used across wired, wireless, physical and virtual networks. This solution protects investment by working with existing infrastructure and it creates an intelligent, open, programmable network that allows the following:
- Quick response to growing application needs.
- Reduces time spent on system configuration.
- Eases the complexity of mobility, bring-your-own-device (BYOD), cloud, and other initiatives.
Executive Summary
Citrix and Cisco jointly deliver a solution for dynamic provisioning of QoS settings across multiple Cisco campus and WAN devices. Upon recognition of XenDesktop Clients that require higher priority for video traffic, the Citrix NetScaler communicates with the Cisco ACI APIC Enterprise Module using Representational State Transfer (REST)-based APIs. In response, the APIC EM pushes new QoS settings to the network devices through which the video traffic passes. Not only are the QoS settings provisioned automatically, it is done on a per session basis, something that is impossible with normal network management tools. The result – an improved XenDesktop user experience.