Start of Basic Testing of Functionally-distributed Transport Technology on a CJK Test Bed

Technological fields
Telecommunications Network Technologies
Keyword
  • Packet network (NW)
  • Functionally-distributed architecture
  • CJK (China, Japan, Korea) test bed
Laboratory organization
NTT Network Service Systems Laboratory

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Overview

By separating the packet-transfer function (i.e., forwarding element, FE), the route-control function (control element, CE), and the transfer service-addition function (service element, SE), functionally distributed transport technology enables independent expansion of various functions. Moreover, aiming at realization of stable operation of future large-scale packet networks, research and development on this technology is progressing steadily. At NTT Laboratories, targeting standardization of an interface for substantializing this technology, basic testing with a pilot unit on a CJK test bed started in June 2008.

Features

  • Scalability of node size is assured by accommodating the number of FEs according to the performance of CEs
  • Number of neighbors is reduced by consolidating CEs, and stable operation of large-scale network is achieved
  • Consolidation of CEs and consolidation on SEs of service functions makes it possible to curtail function-addition operations
  • Renewal of software for CEs is possible without affecting packet-transfer functions (FEs)
  • Connection architecture of SEs and CEs can be changed without affecting packet-transfer functions (FEs)

Application scenarios

  • Stable operation of a large-scale network composed of a hundred million terminals
  • Curtailment of operations for renewing CE files and adding service functions
  • Low-power-consumption operation of network by switching configuration of connections between CEs and FE/SEs according to network status
  • Efficient NW operation by placement of SEs according to demand
  • This research is being performed as part of a commissioned research project — called "Research and development on next-generation networks (NGNs)" — of the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT).
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