RawNet: Network Processing on the Raw Processor

Introduction: In the past, the processing of high-speed network streams in routers has been the domain of application specific integrated circuits (ASIC). While this approach can result in very high speed systems that are able to process many gigabits of network packets, it has some distinct disadvantages. Most notably, because custom hardware has been produced, if protocols change, or if any change is needed, new chips need to be produced, which can be very expensive. Also the time required to fabricate new chips is long when compared to reprogramming a microprocessor.