A Multi-objective Service Function Chain Mapping Mechanism for IoT networks

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) promises a significant advantage for IoT operators to steer substantial customizable service through a sequence of virtual network function (VNF). Service Function Chain (SFC) mapping is a key problem in IoT network resource allocation. There are two challenges in virtual resource allocation include: 1) how to map SFC requests to appropriate devices in the right sequence; 2) how to assure QoS requirements of SFC requests. Therefore, to meet the sharp increase of IoT traffic amounts and the diversification of IoT service requirements, a multi-objective service function chain mapping mechanism is proposed with two sub-mechanisms. First, a SFC mapping algorithm is designed to embed VNFs onto the substrate layer based on cost and load balancing. Then a reliability-aware SFC backup algorithm combining SFC backup and VNF backup is presented to economically and efficiently improve service reliability. The simulation results show that the algorithm can significantly improve the acceptance ratio of SFC requests, reduce cost, ensure network balance, and achieve long-term sustainable operation of the network.