An engineer must add VNF implementation definitions and VNF service definitions to an OpenStack deployment...

In an NFV environment following Cisco NFV Infrastructure and ETSI MANO architecture, the onboarding workflow for VNF deployment follows this high-level order:

Define VNF descriptors (VNFD and NSD)– Includes implementation details and service definitions.

Prepare virtual machine resources– Flavor, image, CPU/memory/storage, and placement.

Define the NFV network– This step builds the underlay/overlay connectivity needed for the VNF.– It includes virtual network creation, interfaces, VLs (Virtual Links), connection points, and mapping into OpenStack (Neutron networks, subnets, ports).– No VNF can be deployed until the NFV service networks (management, control, data, HA) are defined.

Apply Day-0 configuration– Bootstrapping/initial config.

Apply Day-1 operational characteristics– Routing, services, policies.

Configure operational monitoring (KPIs)– Performance and fault measurements.

Since the question states“after the VM resources are prepared”, the next mandatory stage is defining the virtual network connectivity on which the VNFs will operate.