Research of Performance Parameters of Virtual Switches with OpenFlow Support

Abstract

This paper discusses the problems that arise with different ways of connecting virtual network switches with the OpenFlow mode. A technique for automated research of performance parameters of virtual switches with OpenFlow support is proposed. The study revealed modes in which significant packet loss and delays of more than 100 ms occur. It was found that on different parts of the packet's route, using Open vSwitch in OpenFlow mode inside virtual machines is not optimal. Also, the connection for virtualization systems via Open vSwitch is preferable to Linux Bridge. Exceeding the load beyond the identified limits entails the need to optimize the Open vSwitch and install the DPDK module for low-latency switching or change the load balancing on such nodes.