Mini-SFC: A Comprehensive Simulation Framework for Orchestration and Management of Service Function Chains

TL;DR

Mini-SFC is an open-source, modular simulation framework that enables flexible, realistic, and scalable testing of service function chains in cloud networks, supporting dynamic topologies and rapid algorithm validation.

Contribution

It introduces Mini-SFC, a novel simulation platform that simplifies SFC testing with modular design, supporting both numerical and container-based simulations, and dynamic topology adjustments.

Findings

Supports both numerical and container-based simulations

Enables online dynamic topology adjustments

Shortens learning curve for SFC research

Abstract

In the continuously evolving cloud computing and network environment, service function chain (SFC) plays a crucial role in implementing complex services in the network with its flexible deployment capabilities. To address the limitations of existing SFC simulation tools, this paper introduces Mini-SFC, a modular simulation framework that supports both numerical and container-based virtual simulations, while also supporting online dynamic topology adjustments. As an open-source platform emphasizing user-friendliness, Mini-SFC facilitates rapid algorithm verification and realistic service deployment validation. By simplifying module design and providing standardized solver interfaces, Mini-SFC significantly shortens the learning curve for researchers and enhances the flexibility and scalability required for advanced SFC management and optimization. For readers interested in exploring or utilizing Mini-SFC, more information is available on the official project page.