Distributed Packet Parser Architecture for High Throughput Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current packet processing architectures face limitations in handling high data throughputs and diverse packet formats, leading to bottlenecks and constraints in data throughput and packet format handling.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves distributing packet parser functions, providing an egress mirroring function, implementing multi-dimensional quality of service indicators, and cascading multiple replicated packet processing systems to enhance packet classification, modification, and post-processing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single centralized packet processing architecture is used, then the system structure is simple, but the data throughput is limited and cannot handle 10 GB/s or more
Solution Approach 1:
The packet processing system is divided into multiple independent parser units (first packet parser, second packet parser, third packet parser) that can process packets in parallel. Each parser has dedicated classification and modification resources, enabling the system to handle multiple packets simultaneously and achieve high throughput of 10 GB/s or more while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional packet processing architecture is used, then the implementation is straightforward, but it cannot handle complex and diverse data packet formats
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple specialized parser units, each capable of handling different packet formats. The first packet parser processes initial packet formats, while subsequent parsers handle modified or derived packet formats. This segmented approach provides versatile packet format handling without requiring a single complex universal processor.
Solution Approach 2:
The packet processing architecture is designed to be dynamic and adaptable. The system can selectively activate different parser units and classification systems based on the incoming packet format requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the system to handle diverse packet formats efficiently without being constrained by a fixed architecture.
3Productivity
If packet processing functions are concentrated in a single system, then the system structure is simple, but bottlenecks occur limiting achievable data throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The packet processing functions are segmented across multiple independent systems. The first packet parser processes packets and provides data to a classification system, while the second packet parser processes modified packets separately. This functional segmentation eliminates bottlenecks by distributing processing loads across multiple parallel paths, achieving high throughput without requiring excessive inter-component communication.
4Productivity
If comprehensive packet classification and modification is performed in one system, then processing is complete, but the system becomes a bottleneck
Solution Approach 1:
The comprehensive packet processing function is segmented into distinct stages handled by different parser units. The first packet parser performs initial classification, the second packet parser handles modification processing, and the third packet parser performs final verification. This segmentation allows each unit to specialize in specific processing tasks, increasing overall processing capacity while maintaining manageable complexity through functional decomposition.
Data Source
AI summary
A packet processing system architecture and method are provided. According to a first aspect of the invention, packet parser functions are distributed throughout a packet processing system comprising a packet classification system and a packet modification system. According to a second aspect of the invention, an egress mirroring function is provided to the system. According to a third aspect of the invention, a multi-dimensional quality of service indicator for a packet is provided. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a cascaded combination of multiple, replicated packet processing systems is used to process a packet. A fifth aspect of the invention involves any combination of one or more of the foregoing.