Attack-Aware Recovery Controller-Switch-Link Cost Minimization Placement Algorithm in Software-Defined Networking

An effective controller placement is vital in software-defined networking (SDN). The configuration of controller, switch, link and backup controller in a network will affect the cost of network planning. Hitherto, researchers in SDN have been addressing many issues related to SDN controller placement issues but only suggestion on the idea of deployment of backup controller (BC) placement due to network malfunction and attack. Here, we would like to propose an attack-aware recovery placement scheme with the main objective in reducing the network planning cost as well as providing uninterrupted service for SDN. Our approach is derived from a hybrid combination of heuristic and greedy strategy to generate array of combinations in a relative short time as compared to k-combination method that is highly complex and requires longer computation time. As a preventive technique, the generated BC will be connected to a fixed controller at a node to be readily used as a replacement in the event where controller malfunction occur due to attack and failure. The heuristic algorithm demonstrated a significant decrease in computation time required to produce distinct combination of controller by 99.25% compared to k-combination approach.