software-defined networks for multi-bearer time-sensitive distributed systems in the combat cloud
Key Points
- DAIRNet Theme: Distributed Multi-Domain Networks
- University of New South Wales Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy and CSIRO
- Point of contact: A/Prof Frank den Hartog
bottom line up front
Modern data and service centric tactical networks are expected to be heterogeneous, agile, dynamic, and intelligent, but at any time every node and every control centre needs to have maximum access to relevant data and services. The key research question is how the concept of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) can be applied and should be adapted to enable such tactical networks. In our project we focus on the extension of traditional SDN with novel controllers for wireless networks, have multiple controllers collaborating, include multiple bearers, include Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN), and achieve intelligent routing based on security and timing requirements. The goal of the project is to produce a target architecture validated by a Proof of Concept (PoC). The key novelty of the project is the leveraging of SDN to enable and control TSN over different wireless networks. We have learned that this can only be done in a scalable way by using P4-programmable wireless switches. This is a departure from traditional SDN architectures that rely on southbound protocols such as OpenFlow. We are now working out the details of the related architecture and will implement relevant parts in simulation platforms such as Mininet WiFi as well as on real hardware.
problem addressed
Native cloud architectures are not designed for highly heterogeneous and dynamic networks. The networks themselves need to be much more service aware and adapt accordingly. SDN can provide the needed level of control as well as flexibility, but does not support time-sensitive control of traffic in wireless networks.
outcomes
We now understand how to design a system architecture for a distributed SDN, which includes the potential for bridging across multiple heterogeneous bearers and integrates TSN-based applications by means of a systematic framework of APIs. The PoC is still work in progress, and will contain various example service, e.g. TSN- and trust-based routing: specific traffic tagged by a sender as high-security and time-sensitive will be treated by the network accordingly.
the big picture for Defence
With P4 programmable switches (wired and wireless) on the southbound of SDN controllers and any already existing programmable API on the northbound interface, Defence can retain complete control and flexibility over the behaviour of any dynamic heterogeneous network. The possibilities are boundless, and not only include fine-grained packet-level control of traffic flows, but also the gathering of large amounts of very low-level network data for the sake of training AI models that can aid in day-to-day understanding of how the network behaves and decision making on how it should behave.
video
Watch Frank den Hartog’s presentation about this project at the 2021 DAIRNet Symposium.
