Method and system for multiple multi-thread programmable processing core

Abstract

In general, in one aspect, the disclosure describes a method that includes at a first packet processing thread executing at a first core, performing a memory read to data shared between packet processing threads including the first thread. The method also includes at the first packet processing thread, determining whether the data returned by the memory read has been changed by a packet processingthread operating on another core before performing an exclusive operation on the shared data by the first packet processing thread.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to data access, in particular to access to data shared by packet processing threads. Background technique [0002] A network enables computers and other devices to communicate. For example, a network may carry data representing video, audio, email, and so on. Typically, data sent over a network is divided into smaller messages called packets. Metaphorically speaking, a packet is more like an envelope you put in your mailbox. A packet typically includes a "payload" and a "header". The "payload" of a packet is similar to a letter in an envelope. The "header" of the packet is more like the information written on the envelope. The header can include information to help network devices process the packet appropriately. For example, the header may include an address identifying the destination of the packet. [0003] A given packet may "hop" through many different intermediate network forwarding devices (eg, "routers," "b...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Although ASICs can operate at high speeds, changing ASIC operation to accommodate changes in network protocols, for example, has proven difficult

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