The NEAL laboratory specializes in the design and optimization of advanced computer network systems and applications. Leveraging Software Defined Networking (SDN) and high-performance programmable switches powered by the Tofino 2 chipset—featuring 32 ports at 100Gbps—the lab develops sophisticated control logic and algorithms to enhance network performance across various environments, including data centers and Internet routing infrastructures. Additionally, NEAL employs rigorous analytical modeling to study social networks, supported by rich datasets available to its researchers.
Finally, the NEAL Lab focuses on the pervasive integration of energy efficiency and resilience in future ICT and telecommunication systems. In particular, it envisions the design and modeling of energy- and resilience-aware solutions and resource management strategies across future terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. Research activities span from green communication networks to sustainable and edge AI, grounded in analytical modeling, simulation frameworks and data-driven evaluation tools.
Topics
- Software Defined Networking (SDN) and P4
- Traffic monitoring and cybersecurity applications
- Green networking
- Network modeling
- Social networks
People
- prof. Andrea Bianco – Full Professor
- prof. Paolo Giaccone – Full Professor
- prof. Emilio Leonardi – Full Professor
- prof. Michela Meo – Full Professor
- prof. Daniela Renga – Assistant Professor
Resources
- SUP4RNET platform
- Programmable switches
- GPU-equipped servers with smart NICs
- Network emulators and simulators.
Project
SUPER/RESTART PNRR: https://fondazione-restart.it/it/progetti/s2-super/