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Modern Networking
Modern Networking
Modern Networking
1. Discuss the typical network hierarchy of access networks, distribution networks, and core networks.
Access Networks:
• Access networks refer to the portion of the network that connects end-user devices to the network
infrastructure. It is the closest network level to the end-users.
• Access networks can include various technologies such as wired (e.g., Ethernet, DSL) and wireless
(e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular networks) connections.
• The primary function of the access network is to provide connectivity and access to end -users.
Distribution Networks:
• The distribution network, also known as the aggregation network or metropolitan are a network
(MAN), sits between the access networks and the core networks.
• Its purpose is to aggregate traffic from multiple access networks and connect them to the core
network.
• The distribution network is responsible for routing and forwarding data betwe en access networks and
the core network.
Core Networks:
• The core network, often referred to as the backbone network, forms the central part of a
telecommunications network.
• It is responsible for routing data between different distribution networks, across different
geographical regions or countries.
• The core network is designed to handle large volumes of data traffic and provide high-speed
connectivity.
2. Explain the key elements and their relationships of a modern networking ecosystem, including end
users, network providers, application providers and application service providers.
In a modern networking ecosystem, several key elements and their relationships play a crucial role in
enabling effective communication and service delivery. These key elements include end users, network
providers, application providers, and application service providers. Let's explore their roles and
relationships:
End Users: End users are the individuals or organizations that utilize the network and its services. They
can be employees, customers, or individuals accessing applications and services over the network. End
users interact with applications provided by application providers and rely on network infrastructure
provided by network providers to access these services.
Network Providers: Network providers, also known as service providers or carriers, are responsible for
building and maintaining the underlying network infrastructure. They provide the physical and virtual
connectivity required for data transmission. Network providers offer services such as internet
connectivity, data transmission, and network management. They ensure the network is reliable, secure,
and has sufficient capacity to handle data traffic.
Application Providers: Application providers develop and deliver software applications that run on top
of the network infrastructure. These applications can be productivity tools, communication platforms,
collaboration software, or specialized industry-specific software. Application providers design their
applications to leverage the network infrastructure provided by network providers to deliver their
services to end users.
Application Service Providers (ASPs): Application service providers, also known as cloud service
providers, offer hosted services and applications to end users. They leverage the network infrastructure
and platforms provided by network providers to deliver their services over the internet. ASPs may offer
software-as-a-service (SaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS), or infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS)
solutions. Examples of ASPs include cloud storage providers, email service providers, and web -based
application providers.
The relationships among these key elements in a modern networking ecosystem are interconnected:
• End users rely on network providers to access the applications and services provided by application
providers and ASPs.
• Network providers collaborate with application providers to ensure that their network infrastructure is
compatible with the applications and services being offered.
• Application providers depend on network providers to ensure their applications can be accessed
reliably and securely by end users.
• ASPs utilize the network infrastructure provided by network providers to deliver their hosted services
and applications to end users.
3. Write an overview of the major categories of packet traffic on the Internet and internets, including
elastic, inelastic, and real-time traffic.
Elastic Traffic:
• Elastic traffic refers to data flows that are sensitive to network congestion and can adapt their
transmission rate accordingly.
• It includes applications such as web browsing, email, file transfers, and cloud-based services.
• Elastic traffic can tolerate delays and variations in transmission time without significant impact on user
experience.
• Transmission rates can be dynamically adjusted based on available bandwidth and network conditions.
Inelastic Traffic:
• Inelastic traffic refers to data flows that have strict timing requirements and are less tolerant to delays
and variations.
• It includes applications such as video streaming, online gaming, and voice over IP (VoIP).
• Inelastic traffic requires a consistent and predictable network performance to ensure quality and real-
time experience.
• Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms and prioritization techniques are often employed to manage
inelastic traffic.
Real-time Traffic:
• Real-time traffic refers to data flows that require immediate and continuous transmission with low
latency.
• It includes applications such as real-time video conferencing, voice calls, and live streaming.
• Real-time traffic has stringent timing requirements and requires low delay and jitter to maintain smooth
and uninterrupted communication.
• Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms, such as traffic prioritization and dedicated network resources, are
essential to support real-time traffic.
Bulk Traffic: Bulk traffic refers to large data transfers such as software updates, backups, and file
downloads. It typically utilizes available bandwidth and may be scheduled during of f-peak hours to
minimize congestion impact.
4. Explain the concept of quality of service.
• Quality of Service (QoS) refers to the set of techniques and mechanisms used to manage and prioritize
network traffic to meet specific performance requirements and ensure a satisfactory user experience.
• QoS aims to provide different levels of service to different types of network traffic, based on their
respective priorities, bandwidth requirements, latency sensitivity, and reliability needs.
• QoS mechanisms involve various aspects of network management, including traffic classification,
prioritization, congestion control, resource allocation, and traffic shaping.
• Traffic Classification: QoS begins with the identification and classification of different types of network
traffic based on their characteristics, such as application type, source/destination, or protocol used.
• Prioritization: Once classified, network traffic can be assigned different levels of priority. Higher-priority
traffic, such as real-time communication or critical applications, is given preferential treatment over
lower-priority traffic during congestion or resource contention.
• Congestion Control: QoS mechanisms aim to prevent or manage network congestion by monitoring
network conditions and taking appropriate actions, such as dropping or marking packets, applying
traffic shaping, or triggering flow control mechanisms.
• Resource Allocation: QoS techniques involve allocating network resources, such as bandwidth or buffer
space, to different traffic classes based on their priorities or service level agreements (SLAs).
• Traffic Shaping: Traffic shaping involves regulating the flow of network traffic to ensure that it conforms
to predefined policies and desired performance parameters, such as maintaining a certain rate, limiting
burstiness, or enforcing traffic contracts.
• SLA Enforcement: QoS mechanisms can enforce service level agreements between service providers
and customers, ensuring that agreed-upon performance metrics, such as latency, packet loss, or
throughput, are met.
• Increased data traffic: As the number of connected devices and data-intensive applications grows, the
overall traffic volume on networks increases, potentially leading to congestion.
• Network bottlenecks: Congestion can occur at points of network congestion, such as routers, switches,
or links that have limited capacity compared to the amount of traffic they need to handle.
• Network topology: Inefficient network design or suboptimal routing decisions can lead to congestion by
funneling a large amount of traffic through a limited number of paths or nodes.
• Bursty traffic: Traffic patterns that exhibit sudden bursts of high volume can overwhelm network
resources and cause congestion, especially if the network is not adequately provisioned to handle these
fluctuations.
• Misconfigured network devices: Incorrect configuration of network devices, such as improper buffer
settings or QoS policies, can contribute to congestion by inefficiently managing traffic.
• Congestion can have detrimental effects on network performance, leading to increased packet loss,
delays, and reduced throughput. This can result in poor user experience, degraded application
performance, and service disruptions.
To mitigate congestion, various techniques can be employed, including:
• Traffic shaping and admission control: These techniques regulate the flow of traffic, limiting the rate at
which packets are transmitted, and preventing excessive traffic from overwhelming network
resources.
• Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms: QoS mechanisms prioritize traffic based on its importance and
allocate resources accordingly, ensuring that critical traffic receives preferential treatment during
congestion.
Unified Communications:
Unified Communications (UC) refers to the integration of various communication tools and channels
into a unified platform or system. It combines real-time communication services, such as voice and
video calling, instant messaging, presence information, with non-real-time communication services like
email, voicemail, and SMS, into a cohesive and integrated user experience.
The key objective of unified communications is to provide seamless communication and collaboration
across different devices and channels. Users can access and manage their communications from a single
interface, regardless of whether they are using a desk phone, mobile device, or computer.
Unified communications platforms often leverage IP-based networks to transmit and manage different
types of communication. They may incorporate features like presence awareness (knowing if someone
is available or busy), unified messaging (consolidating voicemail, email, and other messages in one
inbox), and collaboration tools (screen sharing, document sharing, virtual meetings) to enhance
productivity and efficiency.
UNIT 2
1. Why traditional network architecture are inadequate for transmission for carried a data? How this
limitation is solved?
Traditional network architectures, such as circuit-switched networks, were designed primarily for
voice communication and were inadequate for transmitting data efficiently. There are several
limitations of traditional network architectures for data transmission:
Limited Bandwidth: Traditional networks allocated fixed bandwidth for each communication channel,
which was not scalable for data transmission. Data, especially large volumes of it, requires higher
bandwidth to be transmitted effectively.
Inefficiency: Circuit-switched networks establish a dedicated connection for the duration of a call,
even if there are periods of silence or inactivity. This approach is inefficient for data transmission, as it
leads to wasted bandwidth during idle periods.
Lack of Flexibility: Traditional networks were designed to handle specific types of communication,
such as voice or video. They lacked the flexibility to adapt to different data formats and transmission
requirements, limiting the types of data that could be effectively transmitted.
To overcome these limitations, several solutions have been developed:
Packet Switching: Packet switching breaks data into small packets and transmits them independently
across the network. This allows more efficient use of network resources and enables data to be
transmitted in a non-continuous manner, improving efficiency and reducing wasted bandwidth.
Quality of Service (QoS): QoS mechanisms prioritize different types of traffic based on their
requirements. This ensures that time-sensitive data, such as voice or video, receives higher priority
and is transmitted with minimal delay and packet loss.
Network Upgrades: Upgrading network infrastructure with newer technologies, such as fiber optics or
wireless technologies like 4G/5G, allows for higher data transmission speeds and increased capacity,
addressing the limitations of traditional networks.
8. Explain the functions of SDN control plane architecture (Southbound API, Northbound API)
The control plane in a Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architecture is responsible for managing
network behavior and providing instructions to the data plane. The control plane can be divided into two
main components: the southbound API and the northbound API.
The southbound API is a set of protocols and interfaces used to communicate between the co ntrol plane
and the data plane. The southbound API enables the control plane to program the behavior of network
devices, such as switches and routers. The main functions of the southbound API include:
1. Network device discovery: The southbound API enables the control plane to discover and identify
network devices connected to the network.
2. Flow programming: The southbound API enables the control plane to program the behavior of
network devices, such as defining forwarding rules and quality of service (QoS) policies.
3. Packet handling: The southbound API enables the control plane to handle packets, such as setting
packet header fields or modifying packet payloads.
The northbound API, on the other hand, is a set of protocols and interfaces used to communicate
between the control plane and network applications. The northbound API enables network applications
to interact with the control plane and program network behavior based on their specific requirements.
The main functions of the northbound API include:
1. Network abstraction: The northbound API enables network applications to view the network as a set
of virtual resources, abstracting away the underlying network hardware.
2. Network policy management: The northbound API enables network applications to define and
manage network policies, such as security policies or QoS policies.
3. Network service orchestration: The northbound API enables network applications to orchestrate the
deployment and management of network services, such as firewalls or load balancers.
UNIT 3
Differentiated Services (DiffServ) is a Quality of Service (QoS) architecture for IP networks that
provides a scalable and flexible approach to QoS. The DiffServ architecture is based on the concept of
traffic classification and marking, in which network devices classify packets into different traffic classes
based on their QoS requirements and mark them with a Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP)
value.
In the DiffServ architecture, each network device along the path of a packet examines the DSCP value
and applies a specific QoS treatment based on the value. The QoS treatment may include queuing,
shaping, or policing, depending on the network policies and the requirements of the traffic class.
DiffServ provides a more scalable approach to QoS than the Integrated Services (IntServ) architecture
because it does not require per-flow state to be maintained in the network devices. Instead, traffic is
classified into a small number of traffic classes, each of which is associated with a specific QoS
treatment. This allows for more efficient use of network resources and easier management of QoS
policies.
DiffServ also provides a flexible approach to QoS because the traffic classes can be configured to meet
the specific requirements of different applications or users. For example, a network administrator
might configure a high-priority traffic class for real-time applications such as voice or video, while
configuring a lower-priority traffic class for non-critical applications such as web browsing or file
transfers.
Overall, DiffServ is a widely used and effective QoS architecture that provides a scalable and flexible
approach to managing network traffic based on its QoS requirements.
Integrated Services (IntServ) is a Quality of Service (QoS) architecture for IP networks that provides end-
to-end QoS guarantees for individual applications. The IntServ architecture is based on the concept of
resource reservation, in which network resources such as bandwidth and buffer space are reserved in
advance for specific flows of traffic.
In the IntServ architecture, each application that requires QoS guarantees must request and reserve
network resources using the Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP). RSVP is used to establish a
reservation between the source and destination devices, specifying the QoS requirements for the flow
of traffic. The network devices along the path of the flow then reserve the necessary resources to
ensure that the QoS requirements are met.
IntServ provides a fine-grained approach to QoS, allowing applications to specify the exact QoS
requirements they need, such as minimum bandwidth, maximum delay, or maximum packet loss. This
allows for precise control over the QoS of individual applications, but can be difficult to scale to large
networks with many applications.
IntServ is typically used in small-scale networks or in situations where QoS guarantees are critical,
such as in real-time multimedia applications. However, due to the complexity of the resource
reservation process and the difficulty of scaling to large networks, many networks today use
alternative QoS architectures such as Differentiated Services (DiffServ), which provides a more
scalable approach to QoS.
3. Write short note on layered approach of QoE/QoS model.
The layered approach of QoE/QoS model is a framework for managing Quality of Service (QoS) and
Quality of Experience (QoE) in a network. The model is based on the concept of dividing the network
into multiple layers, with each layer responsible for a specific aspect of QoS or QoE.
The layered approach typically includes three layers: the service layer, the Application layer, and the
network layer.
• Service layer: The Service layer is responsible for managing end-to-end communication between
devices and ensuring reliable delivery of data. This layer includes technologies such as TCP
(Transmission Control Protocol), which provides reliable data delivery, and UDP (User Datagram
Protocol), which provides low-latency data delivery.
• Application layer: The application layer is responsible for managing the user-facing aspects of
network services, such as user interfaces and application functionality. This layer includes
technologies such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), which is used for web browsing, and RTP
(Real-time Transport Protocol), which is used for real-time multimedia applications.
• Network layer: The network layer is responsible for providing basic network connectivity and
ensuring that packets are delivered to their intended destination. This layer includes technologies
such as routing, switching, and addressing.
The layered approach of QoE/QoS model allows network administrators to manage QoS and QoE at
different levels of the network, depending on the specific needs of the application or service. For
example, a network administrator might use QoS techniques such as traffic shaping and prioritization at
the transport layer to ensure reliable delivery of real-time multimedia data, while using application-
level QoS techniques such as video optimization to improve the quality of the user's experience.
Quality of Service (QoS) is a set of technologies used to manage network traffic and ensure that critical
applications receive the necessary bandwidth and priority to function properly. The QoS architecture
framework defines a set of components and processes that are used to implement QoS in a network.
The QoS architecture framework includes several components, including:
1. Classification: This component is used to identify and classify traffic based on its type, such as voice,
video, or data. Classification is typically performed using Layer 3 or Layer 4 information, such as IP
address, protocol type, or port number.
2. Marking: Once traffic has been classified, it is marked with a QoS label that indicates its priority and
treatment. The QoS label is used to ensure that traffic receives the appropriate level of service as it
traverses the network.
3. Queuing: Queuing is used to manage traffic congestion by storing packets in a buffer and prioritizing
their transmission based on their QoS label. Queuing can help ensure that high-priority traffic is
transmitted ahead of lower-priority traffic, even during times of network congestion.
4. Policing: Policing is used to enforce QoS policies by limiting the amount of traffic that is allowed on
the network. Policing can be used to prevent non-critical traffic from consuming too much bandwidth
and impacting the performance of critical applications.
5. Shaping: Shaping is similar to policing, but instead of dropping excess traffic, it delays traffic that
exceeds the QoS policy. This can help ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth
even during times of network congestion.
5. Explain the factors that influence QoE.
Quality of Experience (QoE) is a measure of how well a user perceives the performance and quality of a
network or application. Several factors can influence QoE, including:
1. Network performance: The performance of the network, including factors such as latency, jitter, and
packet loss, can have a significant impact on QoE. A slow or unreliable network can lead to delays,
interruptions, and poor quality of service, which can negatively affect the user's experience.
2. Application performance: The performance of the application being used, such as a video
streaming service or a VoIP application, can also affect QoE. If the application is slow to load or
experiences frequent buffering or freezing, the user's experience may be negatively impacted.
3. User expectations: The user's expectations and previous experience with similar services can
influence their perception of QoE. If a user has high expectations for a service based on previous
experiences or advertising, they may be more likely to perceive poor QoE if the service does not
meet their expectations.
4. User behavior: The user's behavior can also impact their perception of QoE. For example, if a user is
multitasking or using a device with a small screen, they may be less likely to notice minor delays or
interruptions in the service.
5. Environmental factors: Environmental factors, such as background noise or poor lighting, can also
impact QoE. If a user is using a service in a noisy or distracting environment, they may have a harder
time focusing on the service and may perceive lower QoE as a result.
Overall, QoE is a complex and multi-faceted concept that is influenced by a variety of factors. To
optimize QoE, it is important to consider these factors and design networks and applications that
provide reliable and responsive performance while meeting user expectations.
The Internet of Things (IoT) reference model is a conceptual framework that provides a structured
approach to designing and deploying IoT solutions. The IoT reference model consists of four layers as
well as management capabilities and security capabilities that apply across layers.
Device layer: The device layer includes, roughly, the OSI physical and data link layers.
Network layer: The network layer performs two basic functions. Networking capabilities refer to the
interconnection of devices and gateways. Transport capabilities refer to the transport of IoT service and
application specific information as well as IoT-related control and management information. Roughly,
these correspond to OSI network and transport layers.
Service support and application support layer: The service support and application support layer
provide capabilities that are used by applications. Generic support capabilities can b e used by many
different applications. Examples include common data processing and database management
capabilities. Specific support capabilities are those that cater for the requirements of a specific subset
of IoT applications.
Application layer: The application layer consists of all the applications that interact with IoT devices.
Management capabilities layer: The management capabilities layer covers the traditional network
oriented management functions of fault, configuration, accounting, and performance management.
Security capabilities layer: The security capabilities layer includes generic security capabilities that are
independent of applications.
3. Write short note on SDN security
Software-defined networking (SDN) is a network architecture that separates the control plane fromthe
data plane, allowing network administrators to manage network traffic and resources more efficiently.
However, this separation of control can also introduce security challenges, as it creates new attack
surfaces and potential vulnerabilities. To address these security challenges, SDN security solutions
typically include several key components:
1. Authentication and authorization: SDN security solutions typically use authentication and
authorization mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users and devices can access the network and
its resources. This can include technologies such as identity and access management (IAM) systems,
digital certificates, and multifactor authentication.
2. Encryption: SDN security solutions typically use encryption to protect network traffic and prevent
unauthorized access and interception. This can include technologies such as SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets
Layer/Transport Layer Security) and IPsec (Internet Protocol Security).
3. Intrusion detection and prevention: SDN security solutions typically include intrusion detection and
prevention systems that monitor network traffic for signs of suspicious activity and block or alert
administrators about potential threats. This can include technologies such as firewalls and intrusion
detection systems (IDS).
4. Policy management: SDN security solutions typically include tools for managing network policies and
access controls, allowing administrators to define and enforce security policies across the network. This
can include technologies such as network access control (NAC) and policy-based routing.
5. Monitoring and analytics: SDN security solutions typically include tools for monitoring network
performance and identifying anomalies and potential security threats. This can include
technologies such as network traffic analysis (NTA) and security information and event
management (SIEM) systems.
6. Sensors
• Sensors are devices that detect and measure physical or chemical phenomena and convert them into
electrical signals or other readable forms.
• They convert physical signals into electrical signals that can be processed by electronic systems.
• Sensors are widely used in industries such as automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and environmental
monitoring.
• They enable the collection of data on parameters like temperature, pressure, humidity, motion, and
proximity.
• Sensors can be categorized into different types, including temperature sensors, pressure sensors,
proximity sensors, and motion sensors.
• They play a crucial role in automation, safety systems, monitoring and control, and data acquisition.
• Sensors can be integrated into IoT (Internet of Things) networks, enabling the seamless transmission of
data for real-time analysis and decision-making.
7. Actuators:
• Actuators are devices that convert electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic signals into physical action or
movement.
• They are crucial in controlling and manipulating mechanical systems.
• Actuators can generate linear, rotary, or oscillatory motion.
• They play a vital role in various industries such as robotics, manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace.
• Common types of actuators include electric actuators, hydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, and
piezoelectric actuators.
• Actuators enable precise control over movements and positioning of components or systems.
• They are used in applications like robotic arms, valves, motors, and brakes.
• Actuators are often integrated with sensors and microcontrollers to create feedback loops for accurate
control and automation.
8. Microcontrollers:
• Microcontrollers are compact integrated circuits that combine a processor, memory, and input/output
peripherals on a single chip.
• They serve as the "brain" of electronic devices and control their operation.
• Microcontrollers are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including embedded systems,
consumer electronics, automation, and IoT devices.
• They execute instructions stored in their memory to perform tasks and manage inputs and outputs.
• Microcontrollers come in various architectures and sizes, with different levels of processing power and
memory.
• They enable efficient and low-cost control of electronic systems, offering features like analog-to-digital
conversion, timers, and communication interfaces.
• Programming languages such as C and assembly are commonly used to develop software for
microcontrollers.
• Microcontrollers have revolutionized the field of electronics, making it possible to create intelligent and
interconnected devices with enhanced functionality and performance.
9. Transceivers:
• Transceivers are devices that enable bidirectional communication between electronic devices.
• They integrate both transmitter and receiver functions into a single unit.
• Transceivers are commonly used in wireless communication systems, networking equipment, and
telecommunications.
• They facilitate the transmission and reception of data, voice, or video signals over v arious media,
including wireless, optical, or wired connections.
• Transceivers support different communication protocols and standards, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,
Ethernet, and cellular networks.
• They enable devices to communicate with each other, forming networks and enabling data exchange.
• Transceivers can be found in devices like smartphones, routers, modems, and satellite communication
systems.
• They play a crucial role in enabling wireless connectivity, data transfer, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
• Advancements in transceiver technology have led to faster data rates, improved signal quality, and
enhanced range in wireless communication systems.
11. IoTivity:
• IoTivity provides a standardized framework for seamless device -to-device connectivity, regardless of the
underlying network protocols or platforms.
• It enables devices to discover, connect, and communicate with each other securely and efficiently.
• IoTivity supports multiple operating systems and platforms, including Linux, Android, and Windows,
allowing for broad compatibility.
• It offers a set of APIs and tools for developers to build IoT applications and services.
• The framework supports various communication models, such as device -to-device, cloud-to-device, and
device-to-gateway.
• IoTivity incorporates security measures like secure authentication and encryption to protect IoT data
and ensure privacy.
• It promotes the development of interoperable IoT ecosystems and helps overcome fragmentation in the
IoT industry.
• IoTivity has been widely adopted by manufacturers, developers, and organizations aiming to build
scalable and interoperable IoT solutions.
• The framework continues to evolve and improve with the input and contributions from a vibrant open -
source community.
12. Iobridge
• IoBridge provides a complete end-to-end platform that is secure, private, and scalable for everything
from do-it-yourself (DIY) home projects to commercial products and professional applications.
• IoBridge is both a hardware and cloud services provider.
• The IoT platform enables the user to create the control and monitoring applications using scalable Web
technologies.
• ioBridge features end-to-end security, real-time I/O streaming to web and mobile apps, and easy-to-
install and easy-to-use products.
Some of the major features of ioBridge’s technology are.
• The tight integration between the embedded devices and the cloud services enable many of the
features shown in the diagram that are not possible with traditional web server technology.
• Note that the off-the shelf ioBridge embedded modules also include web-programmable control or
“rules and actions.”
• This enables the ioBridge embedded module to control devices even when it is not connected to the
ioBridge cloud server.
• The major offerings on the device side are firmware, Iota modules, and gateways.
• Firmware is added where possible to devices to add the functionality to communicate with ioBridge
services.
• Iotas are tinyembedded firmware or hardware modules with either Ethernet or Wi-Fi network
connectivity.
• Gateways are small devices that can act as protocol converters and bridges between IoT devices and
ioBridge services.
• In essence, the IoT platform provides a seamless mashup of embedded devices with web services.