Using the HP-UX IPQoS API

Using Sessions

Configuration sessions (IPQOS_SESSION_CONFIG): Use to traverse and to make changes to the current HP-UX IPQoS configuration.

Read sessions (IPQOS_SESSION_READ): Use to only traverse the current HP-UX IPQoS configuration.

Statistics sessions (IPQOS_SESSION_STATS): Use to traverse and obtain statistics maintained on the current HP-UX IPQoS configuration.

At any point in time there can only be one IPQOS_SESSION_CONFIG or IPQOS_SESSION_STATS type session running on the system. There can be simultaneous IPQOS_SESSION_READ type sessions, even when an IPQOS_SESSION_CONFIG or IPQOS_SESSION_STATS is open.

Terminating a Session

There are two ways (functions available) to terminate a session:

Committing (saving) the session (IpqosCommitSession): Use this function to commit (save) all the configuration actions performed in the session to the HP-UX IPQoS kernel module and update the HP-UX IPQoS database accordingly. (This function can only be called from an IPQOS_SESSION_CONFIG type session.)

If there are no errors, it also closes the session. However, if the function does not return IPQOS_S_SUCCESS, then none of the configuration actions performed in the session are applied (saved) to the configuration in the kernel module or to the database. In this case, programmers are recommended to not re-try the IpqosCommitSession(), but rather to use IpqosAbortSession() to close the session.

Aborting the session (IpqosAbortSession): Use this function to abort (quit without saving) a session and close it. If the session is of type IPQOS_SESSION_CONFIG this function will effectively ignore all the configuration actions and leave the configuration in the HP-UX IPQoS kernel module and database unchanged.

NOTE

Exiting an application without explicitly calling IpqosCommitSession() or

 

IpqosAbortSession() is equivalent to having called IpqosAbortSession().

 

 

Object Status

To determine if a policy or filter object is currently configured, use the following functions: IpqosGetFilterStatus(), IpqosGetPolicyStatus(). The possible status conditions, and their implications, are:

IPQOS_STATUS_ACTIVE: The filter (or policy) object is attached to a policy (or adapter) object, and is currently active in the HP-UX IPQoS kernel module.

Chapter 2

23

Page 23
Image 23
HP UX IPQos Software manual Terminating a Session, Object Status

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.