The OpenFlow (OF) protocol is evolving as a standard in the software-defined networking (SDN) paradigm. While high performance networking equipment with OF support is available, continued evolution of the standard means that users may need to augment the functions available in deployed equipment. This augmentation may be performed by network processing units (NPU), or by PC-based solutions. While the network provisioning algorithms for the Global Environment for Network Innovation (GENI) are able to set up OF circuits, they do not currently have the capability of inserting NPUs or other means of function augmentation. This project provides a framework for delivering advanced network functions using NPUs and specifically shows how to use the Cavium network processing unit in ExoGENI racks to provide advanced processing functions at high speed.

The project will provide hooks for enabling the continued use of older OF switches in the face of continued evolution of the OF standard by allowing newer functions to be implemented on NPUs.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Computer and Network Systems (CNS)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
1449151
Program Officer
john brassil
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2014-10-01
Budget End
2015-09-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2014
Total Cost
$135,628
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Houston
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Houston
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
77204