This paper proposes an IP control plane for supporting policy based overlays. It argues that the appropriate abstraction with which to associate policy is a lightweight virtual network. The term lightweight denotes that these virtual networks are created quickly through signaling and require minimal support from network devices. The latter is achieved by minimizing what is required from network elements, while taking advantage of what is available; this is termed the principle of low expectations.
The paper also motivates the feasibility of the solution by describing the design and implementation of a control architecture supporting such virtual networks. Within this infrastructure the virtual networks are implemented at the IP level by a set of related private IP subnets, while at lower layers a range of techniques for supporting policy is used. The infrastructure may be thought of as a virtual network control plane within which various technologies from a range of protocol layers are knitted together.
By: Sean Rooney
Published in: RZ3211 in 2000
LIMITED DISTRIBUTION NOTICE:
This Research Report is available. This report has been submitted for publication outside of IBM and will probably be copyrighted if accepted for publication. It has been issued as a Research Report for early dissemination of its contents. In view of the transfer of copyright to the outside publisher, its distribution outside of IBM prior to publication should be limited to peer communications and specific requests. After outside publication, requests should be filled only by reprints or legally obtained copies of the article (e.g., payment of royalties). I have read and understand this notice and am a member of the scientific community outside or inside of IBM seeking a single copy only.
Questions about this service can be mailed to reports@us.ibm.com .