Generic functions

In the generic role as a packet processor, a number of optimised features or functions are typically present in a network processor, these include:

Pattern matching - the ability to find specific patterns of bits or bytes within packets in a packet stream. Key lookup - the ability to quickly undertake a database lookup using a key (typically an address in a packet) to find a result, typically routing information. Computation Data bitfield manipulation - the ability to change certain data fields contained in the packet as it is being processed. Queue management - as packets are received, processed and scheduled to be sent onwards, they are stored in queues. Control processing - the micro operations of processing a packet are controlled at a macro level which involves communication and orchestration with other nodes in a system. Quick allocation and re-circulation of packet buffers.