RE: [RRG] Are host-stack modifications allowed or disallowed ?

["Tony Li" <tony.li@tony.li>]

|In the model I'm thinking about, the network (i.e. provider) would
|publish a set of path options (e.g. a map, list of potential
|waypoints, set of deflection bits, etc) for the host to consider.
|The host could then choose from among these options, with the
|expectation that its choice will be honored by the network in the
|general case.  Otherwise, the network should change the set of
|options it is publishing.  The provider retains control by setting
|the bounds of the allowable routing policy.


In particular, that model would allow the provider to only offer a single
route.  Would that be acceptable?  I'm hearing a resounding 'no'.


|The publication of path information from network to host might be
|considered a setup protocol, but I'm thinking it would be strictly
|optional.  The host could still send "regular" packets without
|indicating a specific path preference, and get whatever service the
|network gives them.


The ability to specify the path preference is certainly logically equivalent
to the setup protocol, especially if you want to be able to alter
preferences with any interesting level of granularity.


|Does the model described fit your definition of a hybrid architecture?


It does indeed.  However, the same question still applies: Been there, Done
that, Got the bruises to prove it, Isn't that going to hurt again?

Tony




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