Network processors are fundamental building blocks in modern communication systems, in which tens of Gbps network streams have to be processed in real time. Current network applications and traffic requirements necessitate processing speeds and capabilities that are beyond those of conventional, general purpose central processing units. Network processors are the only programmable solution that can handle modern network streams demands. However, implementing network processors requires a new programming paradigm that can meet network processing requirements. This book leads the reader through the requirements and the underlying theory of network processors, real applications and implementation of network processors, and includes the EZChip Microcode Development Environment so that readers can gain hands-on experience in writing high speed networking applications. By the end of the book the reader will be able to write and test his own applications on a simulated network processor.

Ran Giladi is an associate professor in the department of Communication Systems Engineering at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva; he founded the department and has headed it for several years. In addition, he has taught in the Electrical Engineering Department and the Business School at Tel-Aviv University. Dr. Giladi has also been a system programmer, an R&D manager, a VP of R&D, and founder and CEO of several data communication companies. He is involved in the Israeli high-tech industry, serves as a board member in several companies (among them EZchip Technologies, a leading vendor of network processors), and is currently a venture partner with DFJ-TFV. His research interests include computer and communications systems performance, data and telecom networks, and network management systems. Dr. Giladi received a B.A. in physics, an M.Sc. in biomedical engineering from the Technion, and a Ph.D. in information systems from Tel-Aviv University.

CHAPTER 1 Introduction and Motivation

PART 1 Networks CHAPTER 2 Networking Fundamentals CHAPTER 3 Converged Networks CHAPTER 4 Access and Home Networks

PART 2 Processing CHAPTER 5 Packet Processing CHAPTER 6 Packet Flow Handling CHAPTER 7 Architecture CHAPTER 8 Software CHAPTER 9 NP Peripherals

PART 3 A Network Processor: EZchip CHAPTER 10 EZchip Architecture, Capabilities, and Applications CHAPTER 11 EZchip Programming CHAPTER 12 Parsing CHAPTER 13 Searching CHAPTER 14 Resolving CHAPTER 15 Modifying CHAPTER 16 Running the Virtual Local Area Network Example CHAPTER 17 Writing Your First High-Speed Network Application

List of Acronyms