Multibuffer implementation in XDP: Testing and evaluation with jumbo frames

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master_Parpinello_Davide_2024.pdf (6.78 MB)

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Sähkötekniikan korkeakoulu | Master's thesis
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Date

2024-08-19

Department

Major/Subject

Cloud and Network Infrastructures

Mcode

ELEC3059

Degree programme

Master's Programme in ICT Innovation

Language

en

Pages

57 + 12

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Abstract

This thesis explores the integration of Jumbo Frames within the eBPF and XDP frameworks to enhance network efficiency, particularly in high-speed environments such as 5G and cloud computing. With the increasing demand for faster and more efficient data transmission, optimizing packet processing is essential. The research focuses on the implementation of multibuffers in XDP, which facilitates the handling of larger packet sizes, thereby reducing overhead and improving throughput. A rigorous experimental methodology was employed, involving a series of tests conducted on a server equipped with Mellanox network cards. Two versions of XDP programs were evaluated: one using the single-buffer approach, which presents the memory page limit of 4K bytes, and the second incorporating multibuffer support for higher packet sizes, such as Jumbo Frames. Key performance metrics, including CPU usage and the number of packets processed, were analyzed across varying Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) settings while maintaining a constant targeted bandwidth. The results indicate a significant reduction in CPU usage and an increase in packet processing efficiency when utilizing Jumbo Frames, highlighting the advantages of this approach in high-speed networking scenarios. However, the research also identifies limitations in the compatibility of XDP multibuffer with certain network drivers, necessitating the use of XDP generic, which demonstrated lower performance compared to XDP native. This finding underscores the need for further exploration into driver support and documentation to fully leverage the capabilities of XDP and Jumbo Frames. In conclusion, this thesis demonstrates the potential benefits of integrating Jumbo Frames into XDP for enhanced network performance, while also outlining the challenges and areas for future research. By addressing these issues, the study aims to contribute to the ongoing development of efficient networking solutions, paving the way for improved performance in real-world applications such as data center connectivity and 5G user plane functions.

Description

Supervisor

Manner, Jukka

Thesis advisor

Kaura-aho, Riku

Keywords

jumbo frames, xdp, network fast path, network efficiency, high speed networks

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https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202412298135

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