Topology-based hierarchical scheduling using Deficit Round Robin: Flow protection and isolation for triple play service

This paper proposes a topology-based hierarchical scheduling scheme using Deficit Round Robin (DRR). The main idea of the topology-based hierarchical scheduling is to map the topology of the connected network into the logical structure of the scheduler, and combine several token schedulers according to the topology. The mapping process could be completed through the network management plane or by manual configuration. Based on the knowledge of the network, the scheduler can manage the traffic on behalf of other less advanced nodes, avoid potential traffic congestion, and provide flow protection and isolation. Comparisons between hierarchical scheduling, flow-based scheduling, and class-based scheduling schemes have been carried out under a symmetric tree topology. Results have shown that the hierarchical scheduling scheme provides better flow protection and isolation from attack of malicious traffic. This is significant for IPTV services in Carrier Ethernet networks.