Efficient Hybrid Packet Classification in Traffic Control System Using Network Processors

Abstract

The fast increasing Internet applications need accurate, high performance and scalable packet classification in traffic control systems. Although there are several designs of packet classification implemented on heterogeneous hardware platforms, accurate and ultra-speed packet classification remains elementary. The disparity arises because traditional packet classification algorithms with imprecise port-based method and packet processing have unacceptably memory access latency. This paper discusses an efficient hybrid packet classification in gigabits traffic control systems using second-generation programmable network processor. Firstly, we address the problem of inaccurate packet classification and analyze the payload of applications. Secondly, we present the packet classification using not only packet header but the first 64-bit payload. Finally, we describe the software pipeline architecture and hardware design for our approach with network processor. Compared with traditional solutions, the hybrid packet classification has 93% accuracy and speed up to 7.6Gbps in a real network environment.