Abstract: SDN has major potential in simplifying the implementation and operation of networks and for innovative management of such networks with the application of network programmability. This study describes SDN technology and evaluates its benefits. These are followed by a brief discussion on the fundamentals of SDN architecture. The research study also reviews state of the art applications of SDN and its future prospects from available literature. Along with this it critically analyzes the various problems associated with the deployment and realization of SDN technology and the direction of relevant research.