Morphogenesis in computer networks

Abstract

Morphogenesis is the process that gives shapes to organisms from an embryonic stage through a sequence of cell divisions. Starting from a simple embryonic cell, the controlled division and transformation of the cells into different types leads to the creation of a complex organism. The growth of complex organisms is completely autonomic, and is one of the best exampIes of self-organizing systems found in nature. In comparison, computer networks of today are much more static and require significant human intervention in order to take on the form that is desired. However, emerging technologies, such as server and network virtualization, enable an architecture where complex computer systems can also develop by following the morphogenesis paradigm. In this paper, we present the benefits of morphogenesis in a distributed data center based computing environment, and we describe the architecture of a computer network that self-organizes using the principles of morphogenesis.