An active network architecture: Distributed computer or transport medium

Abstract

Future computer networks must be more flexible and faster then today. Active network paradigm is the way how to add flexibility to networks. During the last five years, several active network architecture models were presented. A new one, based on model of active nodes is presented here. The key features of this architecture are the separation of session or connection management functions from the bulk data packet processing functions and associated session management protocol that facilitates user control over active network processing. This architecture is designed to be sufficiently general to accommodate and build on top of any packet-based networking technology. The description of the model is followed by brief of prototype implementation using PC-class computers with NetBSD operating system.