Network Processor Principles, Design, and Applications

Author: Shi Jinglin, Cheng Sheng, Sun Jiangming (editors)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-12-01
Features: A Network Processor (NP) is a dedicated instruction processor designed for network application domains, while also being a software-programmable chip. As an emerging network technology, it is currently in a period of rapid development. This book is divided into two parts. Part one introduces the design principles and standard specifications of network processors. First, it covers the development history of NP; then, it briefly discusses general network standards and their applications, highlighting their key features; next, it explains the technical requirements for IP packet processing and existing solutions; subsequently, it introduces the core functional modules of network processors; finally, it covers the work of standardization organizations for network processors, along with the standards they have developed—such as the Stream Interface Application Protocol, the Co-processor Component Interface Standard LA-1, and the Network Processing Software Program Interface Protocol. It also analyzes existing network processors and their features, and predicts the future trends of NP. The second part of the book focuses on the IXP1200 as a core. It provides a detailed introduction to major applications. The target readers of this book include product development and design engineers involved in network processors, senior undergraduate and graduate students, as well as teachers in information-related fields at universities, and researchers in research institutions.