Using the HP-UX IPQoS API

Using Sessions

Using Sessions

Every application that uses the HP-UX IPQoS API must use the context of a session. The session-related functions that are part of the API include functions to initiate and set the type of session, get the session type and terminate the session. Once in a session, the application can: configure HP-UX IPQoS filters and policies, read the current HP-UX IPQoS configuration, or obtain HP-UX IPQoS statistics.

Starting a Session

Every application that uses the HP-UX IPQoS API must start a session by calling the function:

uint32_t IpqosInitSession(uint32_t version,char * configName,IpqosSessionType sessionType)

The arguments can be described as follows:

version: the version ID of the HP-UX IPQoS API (this is a #defined constant in the HP-UX IPQoS header file, in this release it is IPQOS_API_VERSION_ID_1). The version ID scheme allows for the detection of API-application mismatch.

configName: specify NULL (this argument is for future enhancements and is currently unused).

sessionType: specify the type of session being started. Permitted session types are:

IPQOS_SESSION_CONFIG, IPQOS_SESSION_READ, IPQOS_SESSION_STATS.

A return value of IPQOS_S_SUCCESS indicates the session started successfully. Any other return value signifies an error.

When any session type is started, the API first reads the current HP-UX IPQoS configuration stored in the HP-UX IPQoS database. It forms a list of HP-UX IPQoS adapters, where each adapter contains a list of attached HP-UX IPQoS policies, and where each HP-UX IPQoS policy contains a list of attached HP-UX IPQoS filters. It also communicates with the HP-UX IPQoS kernel module.

An application can only have one active session (of any type) at a given time. Thus, to start a new session, the current session (if one exists) must first be terminated. The functions available to terminate a session are discussed in a following section.

Session Types

There are three session types in the HP-UX IPQoS API:

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HP UX IPQos Software manual Using Sessions, Starting a Session, Session Types

UX IPQos Software specifications

HP-UX IPQoS is a sophisticated software solution designed to enhance the network performance of HP's Unix-based operating system, HP-UX. This software focuses on Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms that ensure efficient bandwidth utilization and prioritize network traffic to meet the demands of various applications.

One of the main features of HP-UX IPQoS is its ability to define traffic priorities. Administrators can classify traffic into different priority levels, allowing critical applications to receive the bandwidth they need while less important traffic can be deprioritized. This feature is essential in environments where bandwidth is a limited resource, ensuring that business-critical processes maintain their performance even during peak usage times.

The software employs advanced traffic shaping techniques that allow the management of data flow in the network. By controlling the rate of traffic and smoothing out bursts, IPQoS helps prevent network congestion, leading to a consistently reliable user experience. In addition, it can manage both inbound and outbound traffic, ensuring optimal performance in various network scenarios.

Another significant characteristic of HP-UX IPQoS is its integration with other network management tools. It operates seamlessly with HP’s Network Management Suite, providing a holistic view of network performance. This integration facilitates easier troubleshooting and monitoring, as administrators can correlate data from different sources for comprehensive insights.

Moreover, HP-UX IPQoS supports various protocols, including DiffServ and MPLS. By adhering to these standards, it positions itself as a versatile tool that can operate in diverse network environments, providing flexibility and ease of deployment. Additionally, the software supports policy-based management, enabling organizations to implement specific rules tailored to their network requirements.

Security is also a critical focus of HP-UX IPQoS. The software provides mechanisms to enforce traffic policies while safeguarding against potential threats. By ensuring that only authorized traffic flows through the network, it minimizes the risk of attacks and data breaches, contributing to a more secure IT environment.

The user interface of HP-UX IPQoS is designed for ease of use, allowing network administrators to configure settings, monitor performance, and generate reports without extensive training. This user-friendliness accelerates the deployment process and enhances the overall management of network resources.

In summary, HP-UX IPQoS is a robust and versatile network management solution that brings substantial benefits to organizations looking to optimize their network performance. With its traffic prioritization features, integration capabilities, support for industry standards, and focus on security, it stands out as an essential tool for maintaining effective and secure network operations in a dynamically changing IT landscape.