DOCA Platform Framework (DPF) Documentation v25.7.0

Zero Trust Deployment

The Zero Trust deployment scenario represents DPF for zero trust environments, where the DPU is treated as a host accelerator card and is managed by DPF via BMC and Redfish. In this deployment model, host machines remain outside the DPF management cluster, while the DPU serves as an integrated acceleration resource that enhances the host's capabilities.

This architecture provides secure isolation between the management plane and host systems. DPU services are managed through Kubernetes APIs within the DPF cluster, while host workloads operate independently on their respective machines.

Redfish is used to manage the DPU hardware, including firmware updates and configuration changes.

The Zero Trust model supports various use cases, each optimized for specific networking and acceleration requirements.

Each use case may require tailored configurations on the DPU for optimal performance. Below are the validated user guides with corresponding deployment guides.

HBN

DPU Services

Comments

DOCA Host-Based Networking (HBN)

Accelerates underlay BGP routing with ECMP and EVPN-based overlays


VPC

DPU Services

Comments

VPC OVN-Controller

OVN-Controller for VPC management and networking

VPC OVN-Node

OVN-Node for VPC networking and connectivity


Passthrough

No DPUServices are necessary for this use case.

Before deploying DPF in zero trust mode, ensure you have the necessary hardware and software prerequisites in place. This includes compatible DPU hardware, host operating system configurations, and network settings. For detailed requirements, refer to the prerequisites guide.

To deploy DPF in zero trust mode:

  1. Setup Prerequisites: Ensure all hardware, software, and network requirements are met

  2. Choose Use Case: Select the appropriate deployment scenario based on your requirements

  3. Follow Guide: Use the specific use case documentation for step-by-step deployment

  4. Verify Deployment: Validate the installation and perform basic functionality tests

For assistance with zero trust deployments:

Once you've familiarized yourself with the zero trust concept, proceed to:

  1. Review the prerequisites

  2. Select an appropriate use case

  3. Begin your DPF zero trust deployment

© Copyright 2025, NVIDIA. Last updated on Sep 3, 2025.