Policy-based Diffserv on Internet servers: The AIX approach

Abstract

A policy-based architecture on IBM's AIX operating system, which provides differentiated services (Diffserv) to both quality-of-service (QoS)-aware and -unaware applications, was implemented. Policy-based controls facilitate application-unaware Diffserv support, eliminating the need to modify existing applications. The design aspects of the policy-based architecture include scalable connection-based classification and control; realization of accurate traffic shaping at high rates using a configuration system-wide shaping timer; and fair flow aggregation for policies.