In this paper we introduce SNF, a framework that synthesizes (S) network function (NF)
service chains by eliminating redundant I/O and repeated elements, while consolidating
stateful cross layer packet operations across the chain. SNF uses graph composition and set
theory to determine traffic classes handled by a service chain composed of multiple
elements. It then synthesizes each traffic class using a minimal set of new elements that
apply single-read-single-write and early-discard operations. Our SNF prototype takes a …