Introduction to Active Network Technology Bernhard Plattner Computer Engineering and Networks Laboratory ETH Zurich, Switzerland

Important properties of future network architectures Programmability = adaptability to the requirements of the –service provider –operator –user Application-specific functions should be made available where, when and as requested Auxiliary requirements –Dependability (availability, safety, security) –Performance

Active Technologies 1.Active Networks –In the network layer –May replace or (rather) complement current network infrastructure –Benefits: Provision of application-specific functions in the network proper 2.Mobile Agent Systems –In the application layer –May replace or (rather) complement client/server systems –Separation rather than integration of know-how about service provision of resources

High level architecture of an active network node

Towards a Virtual Active Network

Variants of Active Network Nodes The Capsules ApproachCapsules –Active packets carry code which is executed in the execution environment in an active network node. –Variant: Active packets carry reference to code Code is fetched from neighbor node, if not already present Programmable Switch/Router –Application specific programs are dynamically loaded into switch or router The ANN approach combines both variantsANN approach –Distributed Code Caching involving a network of code servers

The “Capsules”-Approach: ANTS

Router Plugins Architecture

Programmable switch with Distributed Code Caching

End of Introduction