NGPaaS framework for enriched and customized virtual network functions-as-a-service

This paper describes how the novel Next Generation Platform-as-a-Service (NGPaaS) framework can facilitate major benefits for Network Operators and Vertical Service Providers (VSPs) who wish to leverage Virtual Network Functions-as-a-Service (VNFaaS) capabilities. Network Operators can benefit by providing an "on demand" PaaS with required features for the VSPs, thus generating new revenue streams but with low operational overhead due to the high degree of automation. VSPs can benefit from the PaaS-oriented approach, by being able to flexibly on-board new VNF types and "value-added" service capabilities like monitoring, healing and profiling, to deliver customized service blueprints to meet the needs of their end customers. The paper outlines the design of an early prototype, built on the Open-CORD platform and using industry-standard Virtualised Network Functions (VNFs)

Profile-based Resource Allocation for Virtualized Network Functions

Accepted in IEEE TNSM Journalhttps://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8848599International audienceThe virtualization of compute and network resources enables an unseen flexibility for deploying network services. A wide spectrum of emerging technologies allows an ever-growing range of orchestration possibilities in cloud-based environments. But in this context it remains challenging to rhyme dynamic cloud configurations with deterministic performance. The service operator must somehow map the performance specification in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) to an adequate resource allocation in the virtualized infrastructure. We propose the use of a VNF profile to alleviate this process. This is illustrated by profiling the performance of four example network functions (a virtual router, switch, firewall and cache server) under varying workloads and resource configurations. We then compare several methods to derive a model from the profiled datasets. We select the most accurate method to further train a model which predicts the services' performance, in function of incoming workload and allocated resources. Our presented method can offer the service operator a recommended resource allocation for the targeted service, in function of the targeted performance and maximum workload specified in the SLA. This helps to deploy the softwarized service with an optimal amount of resources to meet the SLA requirements, thereby avoiding unnecessary scaling steps

VNF performance modelling : from stand-alone to chained topologies

One of the main incentives for deploying network functions on a virtualized or cloud-based infrastructure, is the ability for on-demand orchestration and elastic resource scaling following the workload demand. This can also be combined with a multi-party service creation cycle: the service provider sources various network functions from different vendors or developers, and combines them into a modular network service. This way, multiple virtual network functions (VNFs) are connected into more complex topologies called service chains. Deployment speed is important here, and it is therefore beneficial if the service provider can limit extra validation testing of the combined service chain, and rely on the provided profiling results of the supplied single VNFs. Our research shows that it is however not always evident to accurately predict the performance of a total service chain, from the isolated benchmark or profiling tests of its discrete network functions. To mitigate this, we propose a two-step deployment workflow: First, a general trend estimation for the chain performance is derived from the stand-alone VNF profiling results, together with an initial resource allocation. This information then optimizes the second phase, where online monitored data of the service chain is used to quickly adjust the estimated performance model where needed. Our tests show that this can lead to a more efficient VNF chain deployment, needing less scaling iterations to meet the chain performance specification, while avoiding the need for a complete proactive and time-consuming VNF chain validation

The Next Generation Platform as A Service: Composition and Deployment of Platforms and Services

The emergence of widespread cloudification and virtualisation promises increased flexibility, scalability, and programmability for the deployment of services by Vertical Service Providers (VSPs). This cloudification also improves service and network management, reducing the Capital and Operational Expenses (CAPEX, OPEX). A truly cloud-native approach is essential, since 5G will provide a diverse range of services - many requiring stringent performance guarantees while maximising flexibility and agility despite the technological diversity. This paper proposes a workflow based on the principles of build-to-order, Build-Ship-Run, and automation; following the Next Generation Platform as a Service (NGPaaS) vision. Through the concept of Reusable Functional Blocks (RFBs), an enhancement to Virtual Network Functions, this methodology allows a VSP to deploy and manage platforms and services, agnostic to the underlying technologies, protocols, and APIs. To validate the proposed workflow, a use case is also presented herein, which illustrates both the deployment of the underlying platform by the Telco operator and of the services that run on top of it. In this use case, the NGPaaS operator facilitates a VSP to provide Virtual Network Function as a Service (VNFaaS) capabilities for its end customers