VTopology: Virtual MAC Address Aided Network Slicing in Multi-Tenant Data Centers

Abstract

The shared nature of the network in Multi-Tenant Data Centers (MTDC) implies that network performance for tenants varies significantly. Efficient utilization of limited resources in MTDC is a challenge. Network virtualization is a promising technology for MTDC to provide customized and isolated networks to accommodate various tenants' demands. Driven by the massive increase of data traffic in MTDC, efficient and flexible network virtualization schemes are essential to guarantee seamless network resource sharing and complete isolation. This article presents a novel approach to customizing Virtual Topology (vTopology) for each tenant with self-control capability based on network slicing technology. The key technology behind this, a novel virtual MAC address (vMAC) is used to define network slices and act as a data link layer unique identifier in communications within vTopology virtual switches. Moreover, we propose Optimal Back-Forwarding Path (OBFP) to overcome interconnecting and data forwarding challenges between virtual switch ports allocated on different physical switches. With vTopology, we believe that the customization of virtual networks through network slicing technology enables MTDC operators to create more agile and flexible virtual networks and guarantee isolation and self-control for each tenant.