COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS


Routers and QoS

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Linux-based IP routers and QoS functions.


In some parts of the military IP network, stringent demands in terms of installation or functionality necessitate the use of bespoke IP routers. Linux is the most appropriate basis for such routers, together with open source software for routing, security and quality of service. Linux routers may be run on hardware platforms other than standard PCs, via purpose-built robust routers, to embedded parts of other appliances.

Thales Norway has built a tactical router that maps IP to military X.25 with priority functions. This has been used by the army for several years. The SOTAS system for vehicle communications also has a highly flexible Linux router built in.

Linux routers form an efficient basis for early prototyping and experimentation with new IP functionality. Thales Norway has been experimenting with such routers and associated IP-based functionality for several years now in cooperation with national customers and European research programmes. Some of our experiments are listed here:

  • Ad hoc routing with QoS functionality using heterogeneous transmission (FAME)
  • RSVP with priority and pre-emption accessed via IPsec in tunnel mode (ETNA, LARA)
  • Gateway between ad hoc networks and WAN (DEHIGATE)
  • Multi-topology OSPF routing over IPv4 and IPv6 with wireless interfaces (FFI CDE)
  • QoS measurements over IPsec tunnels and policy enforcement server (QUAD)
Our work on these projects is providing us with a valuable insight into IP technology which will be used both for system engineering and to adapt Linux-based routers and associated IP functionality for specific purposes.


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