A Method of ForCES Virtualization 1

Programmability and virtualization have both become the trends of next generation networks. ForCES (Forwarding and Control Element Seperation) is a new programmable framework for network element. We introduce virtualization into ForCES, propose a method of ForCES virtualization, design its framework, implement a prototype system named vForTER, and test its performance in different scenarios. Test results show that we can flexibly build isolated virtual routers in one physical ForCES network element. And the influences to UDP forwarding rate, TCP out of order packets rate, and RTT are very limited. ForCES network elements supporting with both programmability and virtualization can be used as core infrastructure in future networks.