Mechanisms and analysis for supporting multicast traffic by using multilayer multistage interconnection networks

Abstract

SUMMARYMultilayer multistage interconnection networks (MLMINs) integrate communication with network components and the components of parallel systems, especially when they service multicast traffic. This paper presents an approximate performance methodology for self-routing MLMINs that consist of two segments, each of which is composed of symmetrical switch elements. The first segment is subject to blocking situations with one mode of packet transmission policy (unicast). The second segment-the multilayer-is blocking free and employs double modes of transmission policy (unicast and multicast replication). Applying the current analytical model, which is based on a convergence method on the above types of MLMINs, an estimate can be made of their performance indicators. This model was applied to variable network size MLMINs under different multicasting patterns of traffic. It was also validated by extensive simulations. All the MLMINs under study apply special packet (traffic) management techniques, which allow for the integration of sub-networking into larger networks such as grids. The results are accurate and useful for network engineering, especially in the service of local area networks.

Quantitative analysis of multilayer switching networks providing multiple internal routes

“…Considering various analytical studies on multistage fabrics carefully, it can be pointed out that many researchers have observed that more switching power is needed in the final stages of a MIN compared with the first stages. 2,3,15,19,20 To overcome this behaviour, Tutsch and Hommel 18 introduced the so-called "multilayer MINs" (MLMINs). In a thorough quantitative study, Garofalakis and Stergiou 19 revealed that MLMINs present better performance behaviour compared with classic MINs.…”

Formulating broadcast reliability equations on multilayer multistage interconnection networks

“…An idea to solve this problem is the use of the concept of multi-layering. For instance, there have been already some multilayer fabric switches on the market that accommodate services for multicast traffic [18,44]. For instance, Cisco has built the MDS 9124 and MDS 9134, which are in fact typical multistage selfrouted switching devices.…”

“…The Cisco MDS 9134 multilayer fabric switches can be used as the foundation for small, standalone storage area networks (SANs), or as an edge switch in large core-edge SAN infrastructures. The Cisco MDS 9134 can be stacked in pairs to form a 48-port or a 64-port 4 Gbps switch [18,44].…”

“…In the field of MLMINs, the performance parameters such as throughput, delay, blocking probability, to name a few, have been adequately analyzed in previous works [15,16,[18][19][20][45][46][47][48][49]. All of the previous analyses reflect the fact that multilayer MINs have a great potential in terms of key performance parameters, especially the throughput and delay.…”

“…In addition, the required multicast traffic distribution, in certain areas, is used very often in modern grid systems. These events create the need for interconnection network technology, which is used to improve the performance of new fabrics that are under development [18,19].…”