Blockchain-Assisted Secure Embedding of Virtual Networks in Multi-Domain Elastic Optical Network

Abstract

With the continuous advancement of network virtualization (NV) technology, virtual network embedding (VNE) has played a crucial role in solving network resource allocation problem. However, multi-domain elastic optical networks (MD-EONs) are increasingly facing privacy and security challenges. The centralized VNE methods lead to significant communication overhead due to their excessive reliance on central servers. Additionally, network attacks, such as eavesdropping, pose severe threats to data security. So, we propose a blockchain-assisted virtual network secure embedding (BA-VNSE) framework MD-EONs. This framework employs quantum key distribution (QKD) technology to ensure data security during transmission and leverages the blockchain technology to enhance the transparency and security of the VNE process. Furthermore, we propose a blockchain-assisted minimum cost virtual network secure embedding (BAMC-VNSE). During the virtual node embedding (VNM), the multidimensional resources of nodes are comprehensively considered to ensure effective embedding. In the virtual link embedding (VLM), the QKD paths are allowed to differ from the encrypted data transmission paths, ultimately resulting in the selection of the most cost-effective valid embedding scheme. The simulation results demonstrate that the BAMC-VNSE effectively reduces request blocking probability, embedding cost and average number of message while improving the key utilization ratio.