Abstract:

[Objective] This paper introduces an edge scheduling mechanism of UPF based on a programmable network which realizes unified scheduling of the network element function and UPF in the open-source network operating system. This method aims to sink the UPF to the edge open network equipment, forming the integration of UPF network elements and the programmable network in the edge scenario. Most of the existing network devices provide only limited network access methods and network functions and fail to satisfy the diverse needs of edge scenarios. [Methods] Starting from the SONiC, which is the mainstream open-source network operation, based on the container technology to realize the scheduling capabilities of network functions and the integration method of UPF, the cloud-native way to realize the integration of resource scheduling scheme of SONiC and UPF is explained. [Results] Based on this solution, the UPF is sinking to the programmable network device for unified scheduling and management in the edge scenario. The feasibility analysis of the mechanism is done. [Limitations] As the overall technical architecture of UPF edge scheduling based on programmable networks, it realizes the deployment and scheduling of UPF network elements on the edge side network equipment. How to realize remote management and how to build a deterministic network and achieve cloud-side collaborative computing resource management through this solution are still open issues to be solved. [Conclusions] The UPF edge dispatching scheme based on the programmable network can be widely used in the Internet of Things, Internet of Vehicles, smart cities, and other fields, further enhancing openness and computing power dispatching ability of the network on the edge side, and solving the edge-side practical problems such as lack of network connectivity and computing power faced by the intelligent industry.

Key words: programmable network, container technology, UPF, edge computing