Network Hardware Algorithms

Over the past 10-15 years the area of Network Algorithms has grown from a collection of isolated algorithms and analysis methods into a cohesive body of research and development. The problems in this area are characterized by several requirements, of which speed, scalability and simplicity are the most important. For algorithms designed to operate in high-speed router hardware, there is the additional stringent constraint of low heat dissipation. We overview the development of Network Algorithms, emphasizing algorithms designed for high-speed hardware implementations. Specifically, we describe the algorithms and analysis methods developed for bandwidth partitioning, routing and security applications. We highlight the crucial role of randomization and probabilistic techniques in simplifying the implementation while delivering high performance.