Hello folks,
We have organized a side meeting on Contractual Networking for IETF
112. It is happening on Tuesday at 10am Pacific Time.
==== Contractual Networking ====
This session offers discussion about how to enforce agreements at the
network layer between different parties in a communication. We could use
in-band or out-of-band solutions, solutions at layer 3, 3.5, or layer 4.
We would like to discuss the potential mechanism to provide/negotiate a
contract. Should these be introduced as data within Internet packets to
provide the contractual context to the flow, or should this be kept in
the control plane? How should we ensure compliance? Is IP with some
label option enough? Should IP be evolved? Alternatively, should
compliance mechanisms reside in the control plane, or in virtual
network/network slices?
Contractual networking encompasses mechanisms to provide / negotiate a
contract and to ensure that the terms of the contract are being met.
Multi-party contracts are feasible but significantly more difficult.
There may be multiple ways to enforce the terms of the contract,
suggesting that enforcement may be considered separately from contact
negotiation. The necessary data could include accounting information,
service level agreements, crypto material, QoS signifiers, etc., all
according to the agreed upon terms of the contractual arrangement
between the parties. The terms of the contract are considered to be
stable during the life of the contract.
Speakers will discuss various aspects of contractual networking,
including network validation, service level objectives, intent-based
networking, and access authorization for network resources. Exploring
the suitability of various models of implementation is encouraged - for
instance, segment routing or network service headers may be suitable to
assure adherence to the terms of the contract. Techniques for contract
negotiation and data structures for efficient forwarding are of interest.
This session is not aimed at forming a working group. If interest is
expressed during the meeting, we will discuss next steps and try to
identify whether the work fits within current working groups.
====================
Regards,
Charlie P.
