Dynamic classification in silicon-based forwarding engine environments

Abstract

Current network devices enable connectivity between end systems with support for routing with a defined set of protocol software bundled with the hardware. These devices do not support user customization or the introduction of new software applications. Programmable network devices allow for the dynamic downloading of customized programs into network devices allowing for the introduction of new protocols and network services. The Oplet Runtime Environment (ORE) is a programmable network architecture built on a Gigabit Ethernet L3 Routing Switch to support downloadable services. Complementing the ORE, we introduce the JFWD API, a uniform, platform-independent portal through which application programmers control the forwarding engines of heterogeneous network nodes (e.g., switches and routers). Using the JFWD API, an ORE service has been implemented to classify and dynamically adjust packet handling on silicon-based network devices.