Topology-aware Virtual Network Embedding based on Multiple Characteristics

Network Virtualization provides a promising tool to allow multiple heterogeneous virtual networks to run on a shared substrate network simultaneously. A long-standing challenge in Network Virtualization is the Virtual Network Embedding (VNE) problem: how to embed virtual networks onto specific physical nodes and links in the substrate network effectively and efficiently. Recent research presents several heuristic algorithms that only consider single network topological attribute, which may lead to decreased utilization of resources. In this paper, we introduce seven complementary characteristics that reflect different topological attributes, and propose three topology-aware VNE algorithms by leveraging their respective advantages. Due to overall considering topological attributes of substrate and virtual networks through multiple characteristics, our study better coordinates node and link embedding. Extensive simulations demonstrate that our algorithms improve the long-term average revenue, acceptance ratio, and revenue/cost ratio compared to previous algorithms.