Network-on-chip quality-of-service through multiprotocol label switching

Providing quality-of-service (QoS) in networks-on-chip (NoCs) is an important consideration for the complex multiprocessor chips of the future. In this paper, we discuss the difficulties encountered in addressing these requirements. Then, we propose a promising solution to this problem that is based on applying the well-known MPLS technology of large-scale computer networks to the on-chip environment. A network simulator is used to evaluate the concept for a typical communications scenario that must support several classes of traffic having a range of QoS requirements.