Most conventional networks are passive, with only basic traffic monitoring, management, routing, and congestion control. At best, they can be called reactive. Deploying new functions and integrating new standards into these architectures is difficult due to the rigid embedding of software and hardware into the network components. Active and Programmable Networks for Adaptive Architectures and Services introduces a new generation of network technologies and architecture that allows the creation, customization, and management of new services and applications deployed dynamically into network nodes.

Following a brief introduction and historical overview, the author outlines the architecture of active and programmable networks, discusses the enabling technologies for network programmability in detail, and introduces several paradigms and prototypes. He then explores packet scheduling, management, routing, and security and examines active wireless and mobile networks. The final chapter presents several real-world examples of currently deployed active and programmable networks. Several tables present information on different schemes and architectures, allowing easy comparison among a range of networking options.

Placing the new paradigm in contrast with concepts such as TCP/IP and OSI, Active and Programmable Networks for Adaptive Architectures and Services makes it easy to see how these new technologies can help you build more flexible and adaptive networks that can seamlessly integrate new functions.