Our plan for global network architecture

High-level Architecture

The discussions inside the GNA group have led to a global network architecture model that consists of a powerful intercontinental transmission
substrate, consisting of

• Global Exchange Points (“GXPs”),
• High-bandwidth transmission pipes (running between GXPs).

The GXPs in this architecture model have two major functions:

• Attachment points for the high-bandwidth circuits of the substrate
• Connection points for the Regional and National R&E Networks that are part of and make use of the GNA infrastructure.” “

We envision at least two GXPs per continent or region that are placed in consultation with the region’s R&E Network organizations, taking the intercontinental fiber paths into account.

The GNA substrate supports the creation, modification, and deletion of overlay networks. In the first instance, this is expected to be manual. Over time, it is expected that this can be fully automated.

Examples of permanent overlay networks include:

• General purpose IP routed interconnect, supporting IPv4 and IPv6, both for unicast and multicast
• Commercial Peering Services
• LHCOPN and other Optical Private Networks
• LHCONE and other Open Network Environments

Examples of ad hoc overlay networks include:

• Science instrument support networks like for e-VLBI that are only needed during a science run
• Virtual Organization networks for large multi-continent science collaborations like LHC, ITER, Climate, or agencies like NIH.