Active networking: A new paradigm for next generation networks?

Traditional data networks passively transport bits from one end system to another and the role of computation within such networks is extremely limited. In contrast, active networks allow their users to inject customized programs into network nodes. Also, switches of active networks perform customized computations on the messages flowing through them. In this paper, we discuss the active networking concepts and different approaches to the realization of active networks. We outline potential applications of this novel technology to some difficult problems in current networks and related issues. Since the term "active networking" was first proposed in 1996, there have been considerable research activities at a number of sites. The focus of this paper is therefore put on some recent developments in this area. Possible directions for future research are also identified.