Programming Interface forIP-based Networks

Steve Weinstein & Masa Suzuki

{sbw, masa}@ccrl.nj.nec.com

C&C Research Labs., NEC USA, Inc.

Feb. 13, 1998

Presentation Outline

• Objectives

• Relevant works

• Better understanding of the "Programming Interface for Networks"

• Scope of the Standard

• Issues

Objectives

• Easy service creation

• Framework to address new technical challenges

• New business model for Telecom/Internet software/hardware market

Relevant Works

• Architecture … Integrated Services (RFC1633),

Differentiated Services (Internet Draft)

• Signalling … RSVP (RFC2205, etc.)

• Open Interface … GSMP (RFC1987) and its extensions

(In the context of IP based network)

What is an Interface?

• An interface is an agreed and shared contract, typically static knowledge that is not dynamically modified after the agreement, between at least two parties, supporting an information transfer.

What is a Programming Interface for Networks ?

• A programming interface for Networks is an interface that exposes functionalities to interface users, for manipulation of network resources in various levels, as a foundation that facilitates the introduction of new control and/or management algorithms.

(First Crack)

Open Interface and "Active Network"

Active Network is an interesting topic, but still premature at this moment, especially for standardization.

Expose functionalities of NE to outside world

Flexibility to modify behavior of NE (Active

Signalling, etc.)

Processing

Resource

Active Device

Resource

Algorithm

Open Interface

(IEEE P1520)

Reference Model

- Routing Table (IP Switch)

- Buffers

- Service measurement facilities, etc.

IP-based Network Resources

- Multi party, multi media connection Service, etc.

High-level Services

- Streams

- Customized Data Processing

- Customized Billing, etc.

Resource Abstractions

High-level Services API

Abstract Resources API

Network Resources API

A Programming Interface in the context of IP-based Network

(To be investigated)

Flow Rate Adjustment

Low Rate

Hi Rate

Flow Rate Adjustment in Multicast Hi(R1)

Low(R2)

Scope of the Standard

• Terminology• Architectural recommendation• Abstract Resources Interface and

Network Resources Interface definition with appropriate language

What will NOT be included in the Standard?

• Migration process from existing networks to near future networks with the programming interfaces

• Performance issues -> supporting activity

• Implementation issues -> supporting activity

Issues that need to be addressed soon

• Project/Standard Scope, including definition of reference model and terminology

• Encourage major IP Router/Switch vendors (e.g. CISCO) to join the activity!

Summary

• What is a Programming Interface for Networks?

• Scope of the standard

• Urgent Issues

* Actual activity will be kicked off in April meeting.