Secure large file transfer over multiple network paths

Abstract

The transfer of very large files often faces the problem of performance degradation due to bottlenecks or congestions in a network. Large file transfer is typical in Grid networks [11], where multiple nodes cooperate and run a common application. To improve the performance of large file transfer and to reduce the transfer time, this paper proposes a new file transfer application, called Secure Large File Transfer (SLFT) that supports file transfer over multiple independent network paths. For this purpose, SLFT uses Grid nodes as relays in order to route traffic to the destination. The described problem may also be solved on a lower layer of the OSI model; however, given the high heterogeneity of Grid environments, implementing the required mechanisms on layer 2 or 3 might not be feasible due to the inherent differences between the i volved ISP domains. Taking the approach to the application layer, makes possible to create a generic mechanism able to operate over the different possible underlying communication infrastructure [12]. The SLFT application has been implemented as a part of the GINTONIC toolbox, a set of Grid-specific network enhancements developed under the EC-GIN project [5]. In Grid networks nodes are geographically distributed, several administrative domains may be involved, and the communication is in a potentially hostile environment, the transfer of files involves several security threats which are addressed by the security architecture design of the SLFT application. This paper presents the design and implementation details of the SLFT application, focusing on the necessary security features. Based on practical experiences and evaluation in a test-bed, the performance of the SLFT application has been assessed. Evaluation results show that SLFT can improve the performance thanks to parallel transfer over multiple network paths.