P4 INT (Inband-Network Telemetry)
Objective
The goal is to develop service flow-based programmable network packet broker technology and establish a global testbed via the national scientific research network at a commercial scale. This includes testing and validating the functionality of the network packet broker. By developing In-band Network Telemetry (INT) technology, the functionality of the packet broker will be extended, ensuring a competitive edge over similar technologies.
Duration
April 1, 2021 – December 31, 2023
Funding
4 billion KRW
Supported by the IITP (Institute for Information and Communications Technology Promotion) as part of the next-generation wired communications project for the development of service flow-based programmable network packet broker technology. This is a subcontracted project led by Plantynet Co., Ltd., with a total project budget of 2.75 billion KRW.
Key Aspects
- Programmable Switches: Unlike traditional switches with pre-defined functionalities, programmable switches allow dynamic configuration using data plane programming languages such as P4. This flexibility eliminates dependence on pre-established network functions and protocols, allowing developers to implement various protocols and data plane operations, which significantly enhances network flexibility and efficiency.
- P4 (Programming Protocol-Independent Packet Processors): This language creates an interface that facilitates efficient communication between the data plane and control plane. The control plane is programmed to interact with tables and objects defined by the P4 program, allowing developers to define and optimize network functions, improving performance and efficiency.
- In-band Network Telemetry (INT): INT utilizes the programmable data plane to enhance network performance monitoring and analysis. INT tracks the movement of specific data packets and generates real-time telemetry data, enabling real-time monitoring of network performance and quality. This allows for rapid response when network issues arise.
Anticipated Outcomes
- Improved Visibility: INT enables faster detection of network issues, providing detailed information for swift response.
- Network Optimization: INT provides critical information to optimize network performance and efficiency.
- Enhanced Security: By identifying and defending against abnormal behavior or security threats, INT contributes to stronger network security.
- Ease of Operation and Maintenance: Network administrators can use P4-based INT to manage and maintain the network more effectively, improving overall operational efficiency.
In-band Network Telemetry (INT)
Network Packet Broker Testbed: Testing and validating the programmable packet broker’s performance.
In-band Network Telemetry (INT) Packet Capturing
Expected Benefits:
- Enhanced Visibility: INT allows for quicker detection of network issues, providing detailed information that enables rapid response and troubleshooting.
- Network Optimization: It offers crucial insights into network performance, helping to optimize and improve network efficiency.
- Improved Security: By utilizing INT, abnormal behaviors or security threats within the network can be identified and mitigated more effectively.
- Ease of Operation and Maintenance: Network administrators can manage and maintain the network more efficiently using P4-based INT, streamlining operational tasks and minimizing downtime.