MPF-MLBS: A Multi-path Load Balancing Strategy for SDN Networks Based on Multiple Performance Factors

Abstract

Aiming at the common load balancing problems in the network, a multi-path load balancing strategy (MPF-MLBS) based on multi-performance factor (MPF) for Software Defined Network (SDN) networks is proposed, which can be divided into two stages: algorithm design and strategy implementation. In the algorithm design stage, the advantages and disadvantages of the existing load balancing algorithms are analyzed, combined with the characteristics of the SDN network architecture, and the bandwidth, delay and link rate of the network link are comprehensively considered. Based on this, multiple performance factors are defined, and a load balancing algorithm based on multiple performance factors (MPF-CMP) is designed and implemented. In the strategy implementation stage, build a multi-path network topology based on the SDN architecture, and use the depth-first traversal algorithm to traverse the global network to obtain the required link information; Subsequently, the MPF-CMP algorithm and OpenFlow group table technology are combined to complete the proportional distribution of network traffic to each available path, thereby achieving multi-path load balancing of the SDN network. The simulation experiment results show that the strategy effectively exerts the SDN controller's overall network monitoring and scheduling functions, can obtain link information in real time and distribute and transmit network traffic according to the situation. The overload of a single path is avoided, the data packet transmission volume of all available paths is effectively increased, the flow transmission efficiency of the entire network is improved, and the multi-path load balancing of the SDN network is realized.