The more network functions get virtualized, the greater the computing demands on data centers. That's a well-known fact, but it's taking on new meaning as NFV blurs the lines between IT and the network.

Data centers, whether they are operated by service providers or third parties, are going through a fundamental change, driven by the cloud and the need for lower operational costs and higher degrees of flexibility.

How to meet these needs, keep up with demand, and evolve the data center has been a big topic of discussion here on Light Reading, especially this month, our data center virtualization month leading up to the "NFV and the Data Center" live event in Santa Clara in September. (See Data Center Virtualization: Tough for Carriers, Tougher for Vendors.)

Be sure to register and attend Light Reading's NFV and the Data Center event on September 16 in Santa Clara.

To keep the conversation going, and include your voice, we are holding a LIVE CHAT here on Light Reading with Heavy Reading analyst and data center expert Roz Roseboro. The chat will take place this Thursday, August 21, at 12:00 noon ET (9:00 a.m. PT) when we'll discuss the opportunities, challenges, and storage, automation, management and performance requirements in building a virtualized, carrier-grade data center.

Register for the site here, and join the Light Reading live chat message boards on Thursday, August 21, at 12:00 noon EST (9:00 a.m. PST).

Bring your questions and commentary about NFV in the data center. We hope to see you there on Thursday.

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