In this paper the need for standardized benchmarks for network processors are discussed. Benchmarks are important for developers of high performance network related hardware who need to decide upon which Network Processor to use. The difference between application level benchmarks and micro level benchmarks are discussed. High quality micro level benchmarks are proposed as a way of easily assem...

This paper considers the problem of virtualizing the resources of a network processor (NP) in order to allow multiple third-parties to execute their own virtual router software on a single physical router at the same time. Our broad interest is in designing such a router capable of supporting virtual networking. We discuss the issues and challenges involved in this virtualization, and then desc...

This paper explores the notion of dynamically scaling the architectural resources of network processor systems with the aim reducing their overall power consumption levels. We show that when faced with a realistic traffic load characterized by a high degree of burstiness, a network processor architecture wastes a non-trivial fraction of total power consumed. We then suggest a simple software ap...