To meet the increased processing requirements of emerging high-performance network applications, while maintaining manageable levels of power consumption, high-end network processor makers have migrated to multicore architectures. But, to tap the full potential of multicore processors, you need the support of software. In fact, software that is optimized to take full advantage of the multicore processor design. Without accompanying optimal software, the hardware remains ineffective.

In his recent column, TMCnet contributing editor David Sims points us to a new study from Wind River, entitled “Multi-core Network Acceleration Breakthrough Networking Performance with Optimized Software for Multi-core Processors,” which sheds some light on this difficult topic. The Wind River (News - Alert) paper discusses the important role software plays in achieving optimal network performance for networking applications. In essence, there are a variety of multicore network processors available today, ranging from two to up to 32 cores, but unlocking the full processing potential of the hardware requires clever distribution and fine tuning by the associated software.

According to the Wind River white paper, multicore network processing can be disruptive only if software is carefully optimized. Hence, a new paradigm is needed to harness the potential of multicore networking, concludes the white paper. However, the study cautions that expertise is required in processor device programming, operating systems internals, and networking internals -- all three. “Two out of three isn’t good enough,” Sims emphasizes in his column.

Supporting this paradigm is Advantech’s Paul Stevens and 6WIND’s Charlie Ashton. The two experts recently explained in details the advantages of combining multicore network processor platform with optimized packet processing software to meet the needs of rapidly growing network capacity. The joint paper, entiled “Multicore Plus Optimized Packet Processing Software,” was published in Electronic Engineering Journal.

To address multiple requirements of network processing, 6WIND’ss software is capable of supporting multiple multicore processor platforms. "With support for multicore x86, MIPS and Power architectures, 6WINDGate software provides a common operating environment for all network elements, accelerating development, integration and validation of new and complex technologies,” stated Eric Carmes, 6WIND CEO, in a statement. “This allows equipment makers to deploy new technologies for 4G network elements more rapidly to meet the increased bandwidth demands caused by the proliferation of mobile devices, and to provide support for new, exciting VoIP, data and video applications that are the promise of LTE (News - Alert).”